Top Israeli Chefs Launch Three-Day Spanish Culinary Festival at Sarona Market

From July 29 to 31, Sarona Market in Tel Aviv will host Mercado Estrella Damm, a major Spanish culinary festival inspired by the vibrant food culture of Barcelona, Madrid, Seville, and the Basque region. The event transforms the market into an open Spanish food market featuring traditional and modern Spanish dishes crafted by leading Israeli chefs. Notable participants include Israel Aharoni, Rafi Cohen, Erez Komarovsky, Uri Navon, Omri Bar, Ohad Levi, Sima Biton, and Guy Malka, each presenting unique menus inspired by Spanish cuisine. All dishes will be priced up to 50 shekels.

A highlight of the festival is the collaboration between two influential Israeli chefs, Rafi Cohen and Israel Aharoni, who created two joint dishes: tomato gazpacho with pak choi salad and chickpeas, and chicken wings in superrito sauce. Cohen is recognized for his innovative approach to Israeli cuisine, while Aharoni is a veteran culinary figure known for introducing diverse global cuisines to Israel. Their partnership symbolizes a dialogue between culinary generations.

Other chefs will also showcase Spanish-inspired creations: chefs Yarden Shai and Yair Cohen will offer a pop-up tapas bar with Mediterranean Spanish dishes; Komarovsky will present a special series of Spanish-style baked goods; Uri Navon will serve three special pizzas combining Jerusalem culinary styles with Spanish ingredients; Omri Bar will offer a menu featuring Spanish interpretations of grilled meats and traditional dishes; Guy Malka will debut limited-edition Spanish-inspired dishes including a Spanish hamburger; Sima Biton will prepare a series of dishes including smoked aioli and sweet pita; and Ohad Levi will present croquettes and other Spanish tapas.

Alongside the chefs’ menus, 22 food stalls will offer dozens of traditional and contemporary Spanish dishes throughout the festival. The event aims to bring the spirit, flavors, and culture of Spain’s famous food markets to Israeli audiences, emphasizing shared Mediterranean culinary roots and the joy of communal dining.