Despite some Covid-19 hurdles, I made here to Israel and I am enjoying a country that is mostly vaccinated, pretty open and almost completely back to normal. I can explore, meet friends and find new gems…Incredible feeling!

My Israeli friend, Lea, introduced me this week to a tiny young gem, unassumingly located on Shenkin street in Tel Aviv: K’naffe Shenkin. This sparsely and intentionally arranged shop offers authentic, handmade Middle eastern baklava and K’naffe. Owned by 2 entrepreneurial brothers, who imported a young Turkish chef, the shop also offers more seasonal items like Feteer and Awameh, traditional for the month of Ramadan.

These pastries have been made by Arab mothers and grandmothers for generations and are now easily found throughout the Middle East and here, in Israel as well, at grocery stores, commercial bakeries and pretty much everywhere. Those tend to be syrup heavy, blocks of sugary overdose.

Yet, this little culinary delight elevates it to an art form. Every miniature piece is hand-crafted, from the delicate transparent phyllo dough to the chopped nuts and tight, mini rolls. Those are drizzled with a not too-sweet syrup, leaving them buttery, crisp and melt in your mouth delicious. There is a light hand and intentionality in the creation of the pastries, that is reflected in the decor and ambience of the place.

The passion and love for this art is evident, if you only stop by and spark a conversation. Before you know it, you’ll be offered a taste, a story and of course big smiles. Middle Eastern hospitality at its best… found at the heart of Tel Aviv.

Now that Israel is opening up in May for tourists, you don’t have to take my word for it…

Come and taste for yourself!