Most Expensive Shawarma in Israel Found for 66 Shekels

The most expensive shawarma in Israel has been identified in Eilat, costing 66 shekels for a pita. This discovery comes amid a surge in shawarma's popularity, with new establishments opening and cities like Haifa, Isafia, and Daliyat-el-Carmel becoming shawarma hubs. While many fans debate the best way to prepare shawarma, the rising cost is a significant point of discussion. Although a decent chicken or veal shawarma pita can still be found for around 30 shekels, prices have escalated, with some portions approaching 100 shekels and the average pita costing 50-58 shekels.

A journalist investigating Eilat's dining scene initially believed a 60-shekel shawarma at "Ha-Lev ha-Rahav" was the most expensive. However, a subsequent visit revealed a 66-shekel shawarma at Grizzly, a classic shawarma stand near the Eilat promenade and a shopping center. At Grizzly, meat is pre-sliced and sits on a spoon, and seating is outdoors without air conditioning. A combo meal with fries and a drink at Grizzly costs an additional 21 shekels, bringing the total to 87 shekels. Other items like a "lafa" (large flatbread) cost 71 shekels, a baguette 66 shekels, falafel 34 shekels, and a merguez portion 66 shekels.

The journalist described the pita at Grizzly as soft and good, kept warm, and the meat well-seasoned but excessively fatty, causing oil to drip. Despite requesting minimal toppings, her hands became greasy. She found the high price difficult to justify, especially in Eilat and when eating outdoors in the heat, noting that the sea view was the only significant perk. The establishment operates on a self-service model with ordering screens and pickup at a counter. Ultimately, she concluded that Grizzly's shawarma was unremarkable and less tasty than the one at "Ha-Lev ha-Rahav."