New 'Fishermen's Gathering' Restaurant Revitalizes Iconic Ein Gev Fish Dining Experience

The legendary fish restaurant at Kibbutz Ein Gev, closed for three years, has reopened under new management and a new name, 'Fishermen's Gathering.' A group of young entrepreneurs from Tel Aviv, including chef Asaf Spector, revitalized the venue with a modern, affordable menu focused on local, wild-caught fish from the Sea of Galilee and artisanal, healthy cuisine. The restaurant offers about 100 seats inside and additional outdoor seating, featuring minimalist design and a panoramic view of the Sea of Galilee.

Asaf Spector, who grew up in Eyal Shani's culinary circle and has experience in notable Tel Aviv restaurants, emphasizes local agriculture and artisanal production, including producing the restaurant's own wine, "Kerem HaRuach," served at reasonable prices. Partner Erik Malmed also opened a fish processing plant nearby, the only sorting point for fish in the Sea of Galilee.

The menu includes 15 starters priced between 16 and 52 shekels and six main fish dishes ranging from 72 to 114 shekels, all featuring wild fish rather than farmed varieties. Notable dishes include excellent caviar made from mullet roe, grilled shushka peppers with goat cheese, smoked corn salad, and a signature whole fried tilapia served with fries and grilled vegetables. The restaurant does not serve meat, focusing instead on fish and complementary vegetable dishes.

The restaurant evokes nostalgia for older diners who remember the original venue from the 1970s, while offering creative, contemporary dishes that could easily fit into Tel Aviv's competitive dining scene. Desserts include a classic tiramisu made according to traditional recipes. "Fishermen's Gathering" operates Sunday through Friday from 3 p.m. and Saturdays from noon to 6 p.m. It is not kosher.

This reopening is part of a broader culinary renewal around the Sea of Galilee, which has seen several new cafes and restaurants open in recent years, enhancing the region's appeal as a food destination.