Spanish-Style Vermouth Bar by Ural Mountain Immigrants Gains Popularity in Tel Aviv
In recent years, vermouth bars have become a trendy phenomenon in Tel Aviv, complementing the city's growing interest in natural wines. Leading this trend are popular venues such as Vermuteria by Avi Kashi and chef Michael Gartopski, Vermini, and Hakosit in Rabin Square. Adding to this vibrant scene is Salud, a neighborhood bar located on Washington Boulevard in Florentin, which offers a distinctly Spanish vermouth experience.
Vermouth, a fortified wine infused with herbs and spices originating from northern Italy, has gained popularity in Israel due to its refreshing taste and the local preference for spiced beverages. At Salud, patrons enjoy vermouth served chilled with soda, alongside simple yet flavorful Spanish dishes like pan con tomate (toasted bread with tomatoes), gildas (small skewers with pickled anchovies and peppers), bacon and cheese croquettes, and shrimp empanadas.
The bar was opened by a couple of immigrants from Yekaterinburg in the Ural Mountains, Russia: 35-year-old Uliana Igonin and 42-year-old Stas Rogozin. Both come from cultural backgrounds; Rogozin’s family runs a large cinema chain in Russia, and he continues to manage a video and sound company from Israel. Igonin has experience in marketing and cultural institutions. Since immigrating to Israel four years ago, they have not only introduced excellent vermouth and food but also transformed Salud into a local cultural hub hosting events such as chess nights and Balkan wine tastings.
Salud offers a variety of vermouth options, including house-made special blends like smoked vermouth and jasmine tea vermouth, as well as vermouth-based cocktails such as the "Zabaglaito," a twist on the classic Negroni Sbagliato with strawberries and coffee. Prices range from 16 to 56 shekels for food items and 25 to 44 shekels for drinks. While the bar’s simple charm may not appeal to all age groups or justify a difficult parking search, it is highly recommended for those in or near Florentin.
Address: Salud, 14 Washington Boulevard, Tel Aviv.
