Hakosem is widely regarded as one of the best places for Kosher shawarma and falafel in Tel Aviv. Known for its long lines, efficient service, and generous portions, it offers a quintessential Israeli street food experience.
Customers consistently praise Hakosem for its delicious falafel, often described as 'amazing,' 'green and crunchy,' and 'really great.' The shawarma also receives high acclaim, with many calling it the 'best in a long time.' Reviewers highlight the excellent quality of the meat, lafa breads, and the house special deep-fried eggplant. While lines can be long, customers agree the food is worth the wait. Service at the cash registers is often noted as friendly and helpful, though some found the food makers less welcoming. The hummus is also frequently mentioned as spectacular.
Additional Details
Hakosem is a highly recommended spot for visitors and locals seeking authentic Israeli street food. They are known for taking precautions to accommodate gluten-free diners, including changing gloves and using clean tools. Customers sometimes receive a free falafel ball while waiting in line.
The restaurant is frequently busy with long lines, indicating it's popular during peak meal times. To avoid crowds, visiting during off-peak hours might be advisable, though the efficient service helps manage the wait.
Awards & Recognition
Tripadvisor Top 14 of 1397 Restaurants in Tel Aviv
5
!שלום
Shalom!
If this post gains enough traction, I will come and give a far more detailed review but for now, here is my summary:
We visited on June 22 and 25, 2026.
Every single member of our party loved their food and considered this restaurant an authentic Israeli culinary masterpiece. Whether you get
The flavourful Shawarma (meat shaved from a vertical rotisserie),
The green Falafel (boring description of the falafel, I know, but the falafel was genuinely amazing and fresh),
The complex Sabbich (boiled egg, fried eggplant in a pita),
The velvety hummus (chickpea dip with tahini, lemon juice and olive oil),
The refreshing Rimonade (pomegranate lemonade - rimon is pomegranate in Hebrew)
Or literally anything else, you won't find a dish here that is not an absolute wonder.
We arrived before 12 pm and there was no line and plenty of seating.
If you are in Tel Aviv and want to have possibly the best meal of your life, then by all means, come to HaKosem 🇮🇱!
I stood in line at Hakosem, where the air smelled of toasted spices and fresh herbs. A friendly cook handed me a hot, crunchy falafel sample that melted in my mouth instantly. My pita arrived stuffed to the brim with vibrant greens, creamy hummus, and their legendary fried eggplant. Finding a spot on a sunny bench, I took a massive bite and finally understood why everyone calls this place "The Magician." It was the most authentic, flavorful welcome to Tel Aviv I could have imagined.
Long line even late at night. Great falafel. Watm with fluffy pita. Everything is fresh. Great salad and tehini. Plenty of outdoor sitting. They also have shawarma and schnitzel and you can order in a plate.
Possibly one of the best meals I’ve ever had.
Get the shawarma plate, they give u rice, falafel and eggplant with it! And pita. Unmatched taste. Would eat it every meal of my life if I could
I’m hesitant to give a great review since it’s already pretty busy all the time and I frequent here. Omar is the best chef and if you can request him, it makes a difference the lawful and all the ingredients are top-notch in the value is exceptional. I think you won’t find a better bang for your shekel. Nothing fancy here lucky if you find a spot to sit, it’s gonna be very messy so have napkins ready
