Tel Aviv’s New 'Sof' Bar Offers Quality Small Plates and Vibrant Atmosphere
Sof, a new culinary collaboration between two established Tel Aviv institutions, Basta and Teder, opened last winter in the Har Sinai alley near the Great Synagogue. Basta is known for its local food with Arab-Shami influences and curated alcohol, while Teder is a multifaceted venue managing parties, a radio station, and atmosphere design. Sof combines their strengths into a stylish bar-restaurant with a Mediterranean-Balkan-Greek vibe.
The venue features a long bar, indoor and outdoor seating, and a Mediterranean soundtrack that sets a lively tone. The menu, led by Basta veteran Omri Levy, focuses on small to medium-sized dishes meant for sharing alongside drinks, rather than traditional multi-course meals. The wine list, curated by Basta co-owner Aviram Katz, offers a range of Balkan and Greek-oriented wines at reasonable prices.
During a recent visit, the reviewer sampled several appetizers including a watermelon and fava bean salad with smoked cheese, a lamb pastrami bruschetta, and a unique beef tartare with bulgur and coriander seeds. These dishes showcased high-quality ingredients and skilled preparation. The drinks included a precise serving of Select Spritz and a Portuguese rosé, both well received.
However, the main courses, two types of souvlaki (lamb and chicken), were disappointing. The meats were overcooked and lacked the seasoning and care evident in the starters. Portions were small, and the pricing was considered high for the quantity. Other hot dishes on the menu also seemed underdeveloped compared to the rest of the offerings.
Dessert, a spiced chocolate cream, was enjoyable and rounded out the meal. The total bill for the meal was 568 shekels before tip, with service described as polite but occasionally inattentive. Overall, Sof delivers a fun atmosphere and mostly good food, especially for casual snacking and drinking. It is recommended to visit without heavy hunger to avoid an expensive bill. While the synergy between Basta and Teder is not perfect, the collaboration results in a pleasant and tasty experience with room for improvement in the hot dishes section.
