Tel Aviv's Trendy LOBBY 34 Offers Mixed Bag of Flavors and Value

LOBBY 34, a new establishment on Tel Aviv's trendy Nahalat Binyamin Street, offers a mixed dining experience, according to a review. While the ambiance is designed to evoke a seasoned bar, the food and pricing present some challenges. The reviewer found some dishes, like the tuna tartare and butcher's steak skewer, to be excessively salty, despite good quality ingredients. However, other items, such as the veal sweetbreads and a surprisingly excellent hamburger, were praised.

The reviewer noted that while the interior was not full, the outdoor seating was consistently occupied, questioning the choice given Tel Aviv's humidity. A significant highlight was the bartender, Gabriel, described as a highly skilled mixologist whose friendly professionalism elevated the experience. The cocktail menu was deemed reasonably priced for the city, with the reviewer and their companion ordering multiple rounds.

Despite the culinary highs and lows, the reviewer concluded that LOBBY 34 reflects a broader issue in Tel Aviv's restaurant scene, where prices are perceived as disproportionately high for the portion sizes. While not recommended for a celebratory meal, it's suggested as a good spot for a date, particularly for enjoying the cocktails and a few select dishes like the hamburger. The reviewer advised checking if Gabriel is working before visiting.