Tel Aviv’s Popular Gitah Restaurant to Close Amid Area Neglect and Conflict Challenges

Gitah, a well-known restaurant located in Tel Aviv's Levinsky Market, will close its doors on Sunday, August 30. The decision was made by the restaurant’s owning group, "Praa," which includes Aviad Peled, Uri Steinberg, Tom Gov, and Aliza Sheraga. They cited the combined impact of two wars and ongoing neglect of the Levinsky area as key reasons for the closure. The neighborhood has recently suffered from a surge in drug-related issues, alongside bureaucratic difficulties imposed by local authorities, which drained resources and hurt profitability.

Aviad Peled, one of the owners, expressed deep frustration with the municipality's lack of support, saying that despite opening Gitah out of passion and creativity, the persistent challenges made continuing impossible. He warned that without municipal backing, Levinsky Market risks fading away into a neglected construction zone devoid of vitality and culture. Peled also highlighted that their other restaurant, Praa, is favored by notable visitors such as Jared Kushner and Steve Witkoff during their trips to Israel.

Despite Gitah’s closure, the Praa group is looking ahead with optimism. They plan to launch new ventures in the upcoming year and continue managing and developing their existing establishments. To demonstrate stability and growth, the group recently extended operating hours at their other venues, including the wine bar "Krot," which now offers a morning menu, and the Praa restaurant, which opens daily from noon and remains open on Sundays, a day when most Tel Aviv restaurants are closed.

Peled concluded by emphasizing their readiness for new creative challenges and their commitment to the city’s culinary scene despite the setback.

Summary: Gitah restaurant in Tel Aviv’s Levinsky Market will close on August 30 due to the combined effects of regional conflicts and local neglect, with its owning group planning new ventures and extended hours at other venues to maintain their presence in the city’s culinary scene.