Ep 14. Tel Aviv

In season 3 episode 14 of Bizarre Foods: Delicious Destinations, host Andrew Zimmern takes viewers on a culinary journey through the vibrant city of Tel Aviv, Israel. Tel Aviv is known for its bustling markets and diverse cuisine, with influences from Jewish, Mediterranean, and Middle Eastern cultures.

Andrew begins his exploration of Tel Aviv at Carmel Market, one of the city's most iconic and beloved food destinations. Here, he samples classic Israeli dishes like shakshuka, a savory tomato and egg dish, and hummus, a chickpea dip that is a staple of Middle Eastern cuisine. Andrew also tries sabich, a popular street food that features fried eggplant and hard-boiled eggs in a pita, and kanafeh, a sweet cheese pastry that is a favorite among locals.

Next, Andrew heads to Jaffa, an ancient port city that is now a neighborhood in Tel Aviv. Jaffa is known for its seafood, and Andrew visits one of the oldest fish markets in the city to try a variety of fresh catches like sea bream, red mullet, and shrimp. He also samples a popular Jaffa specialty called malabi, a creamy pudding topped with rosewater syrup and nuts.

Andrew then visits Levinsky Market, a bustling neighborhood market that specializes in spices and dried fruits. Here, he samples traditional Israeli snacks like halva, a sweet sesame candy, and krembo, a marshmallow-like treat covered in chocolate.

Finally, Andrew ends his Tel Aviv tour at Port Said, a trendy restaurant that is known for its fusion of Jewish and Palestinian cuisine. Here, he tries a dish called mejadra, a traditional Middle Eastern dish made with rice and lentils that is often served with caramelized onions and yogurt. Andrew also tries a modern twist on the dish, which is made with quinoa and served with labneh, a tangy Middle Eastern cheese.

Throughout the episode, Andrew highlights the unique cultural and historical influences that have shaped Tel Aviv's cuisine, and explores the ways in which the city's food scene reflects its diverse population and rich heritage. Whether he's sampling classic Israeli dishes or modern culinary creations, Andrew showcases the vibrant flavors and bold flavors that make Tel Aviv such a food lover's paradise.