New Culinary Initiatives Revitalize Dead Sea Region Tourism
Translated & summarized from Ynet by baba
The Dead Sea region is experiencing a culinary revival with new restaurants and food ventures attracting Israeli tourists. Establishments like "Asado BaMidbar" offer Argentinian grills, "HaCarnivorit" provides kosher meat feasts, and "Kaf 430" and "Grill 430" serve gourmet sandwiches and meat dishes. "Solti" brings Greek flavors to Kalya Beach. These openings coincide with the "Dead Sea Pioneers March," aiming to boost regional tourism.
The story in 6 lines · by baba
- New restaurants like 'Asado BaMidbar' and 'HaCarnivorit' are revitalizing the Dead Sea region's tourism.
- Israeli travelers are increasingly discovering the Dead Sea region's beaches and culinary offerings.
- 'Asado BaMidbar' offers Argentinian grill specialties with desert views.
- 'HaCarnivorit' provides kosher meat dining and caters to small events.
- 'Kaf 430' and 'Grill 430' carts feature gourmet sandwiches and meat options.
- The 'Dead Sea Pioneers March' is scheduled for October 23-24, promoting regional activities.
The Dead Sea region, particularly the northern area, is experiencing a culinary renaissance, drawing both local and international visitors despite past tourism downturns. Arieh Cohen, head of the Megilot Dead Sea Regional Council, noted that while foreign tourist numbers, especially Christian pilgrims, were severely impacted by recent events, Israeli travelers have increasingly discovered the area's attractions, including its well-maintained beaches and proximity to central Israel. This resurgence is complemented by a rise in innovative culinary ventures.
Among the new establishments is "Asado BaMidbar," an Argentinian grill opened in October 2023 by financial consultant Eliyahu Fishkel and Natanel Schlesinger. Located opposite the settlement of Avnat, the restaurant offers prime Argentinian meats, including eight-hour smoked asado, lamb ribs, and entrecote, alongside empanadas and sandwiches, all with a stunning desert and Dead Sea view. The venue also hosts various activities like jeep tours and culinary workshops.
Another notable addition is "HaCarnivorit," a kosher meat restaurant opened by Jerusalem restaurateur Reut Cohen. Seeking a quieter life, Cohen relocated to the northern Dead Sea area during the COVID-19 pandemic and established her new venture at Almog Junction. The restaurant offers all-you-can-eat meat menus and caters to small events, providing a solution for local residents seeking special occasion dining.
Further enhancing the region's culinary landscape are "Kaf 430" and "Grill 430," kosher coffee carts opened by Shimshon Chen near the Lido/Kaliya junction. Chef Nadav Rachav, who transitioned from high-tech, prepares gourmet sandwiches, including a popular sabich, and standout croissants and Basque cake at "Kaf 430." The "Grill 430" cart offers a basic but satisfying selection of meat dishes.
"Solti," a Greek restaurant at Kalya Beach, offers Mediterranean cuisine with dishes like tzatziki, Greek salad, moussaka, and souvlaki, alongside live music events. Led by Neri Stein, whose parents were among the kibbutz founders, the restaurant aims to revive local tourism and has been operating for about a year and a half.
These new culinary destinations coincide with the upcoming "Dead Sea Pioneers March" on October 23-24, featuring three hiking routes and various tourist activities, further promoting the region's appeal.
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