Michelin-Starred Israeli Chef Matan Zaken Plans First Restaurant in Tel Aviv

Israeli chef Matan Zaken, renowned for earning a Michelin star with his Parisian restaurant Nhome, is preparing to open his first restaurant in Israel. Zaken is collaborating with restaurateur Alexander Sochnovsky, known for his work with the restaurant Gaijin and new projects in Tel Aviv and Herzliya. Their initial venture will be an intimate fine dining restaurant in Tel Aviv, inspired by Zaken's acclaimed Paris establishment, offering a meticulously crafted tasting menu aimed at international standards.

Following the fine dining launch, the partners plan to open a more casual yet upscale bistro to bring Zaken's culinary style to a broader audience. Sochnovsky emphasized Zaken's exceptional talent and discipline, noting the rarity of such recognition by French culinary standards. While the duo is still finalizing details, Sochnovsky expressed enthusiasm about creating a venue that allows Zaken to cook precisely as he envisions.

Regarding the Michelin Guide's presence in Israel, Sochnovsky acknowledged that bringing Michelin recognition to the country is a complex, large-scale effort beyond a single restaurant. However, he aims to build the new restaurant to Michelin standards to attract attention from the guide. Both partners believe Israel's culinary scene has the talent, ingredients, and discerning audience to compete globally. This project marks a significant step in elevating Israel's gastronomic profile.