Tel Aviv, the city that never seems to sleep, is once again making noise—but this time, it’s the quiet kind. Forget flashy tourist traps; if you really want to eat and drink like a true local, it’s all about knowing where to whisper and when to slip in unnoticed. From hidden bars tucked behind unmarked doors to sizzling kitchens where chefs cook with reckless, delicious abandon, Israel’s cultural capital is brimming with secret spots that thrive on word of mouth.

Take Imperial Cocktail Bar, for instance—a legendary hideaway where bartenders craft drinks that could make Hemingway weep. It’s the kind of place you only find if a local likes you enough to spill the beans. The atmosphere? Think moody jazz, vintage mirrors, and a menu that reads like a novel.

A short walk away, down an alley you might overlook twice, sits Abu Hassan—a hummus spot so beloved that it doesn’t need a sign. Locals flock here before sunrise, because once the last chickpea is scooped, the shutters slam down without mercy. One Tel Aviv resident joked, “I’d trade my Wi-Fi password for directions to Abu Hassan any day.”

But Tel Aviv’s hush-hush culinary scene doesn’t stop at old legends. New kids on the block like OCD and Herzl 16 are rewriting the city’s dining script. OCD is a 19-seat chef’s counter where chef Raz Rahav serves an experimental tasting menu you won’t find scribbled on any board outside. It’s a culinary adventure that has people buzzing—quietly, of course.

Meanwhile, Herzl 16 transforms from a laid-back café by day to a thumping courtyard bar by night. By midnight, it’s a swirl of young creatives, experimental DJs, and flowing arak shots. If you catch the vibe, consider yourself an honorary Tel Avivian.

So how do you get in on these whispered secrets? Easy—don’t Google it. Instead, make friends. Chat with your barista, your Airbnb host, or that guy you meet at the beach. In Tel Aviv, the best way to find the next best bite or sip is still the old-fashioned way: ask around, earn a smile, and promise not to post it on Instagram.

One thing’s for certain: in this coastal city, word of mouth isn’t just gossip—it’s the golden ticket to nights you’ll never forget (but may struggle to explain the next morning).

Step into Loka Restaurant & Lounge and you’ll immediately sense a sophisticated yet inviting atmosphere nestled in the heart of South Kensington, London, just a short stroll from the Natural History Museum . This stylish venue blends classic Mediterranean fare with a modern twist—offering everything from fluffy pancakes and shakshouka at brunch to exquisite grilled seafood and mezze-style starters.

Start your culinary journey with grilled halloumi or fresh falafel, both perfectly paired with pita and creamy tahini sauce—a testament to Loka’s mastery of comforting small plates . As midday turns to evening, the menu expands to include marinated lamb skewers, king prawns in garlic butter, and freekeh risotto, blending familiar favourites with elegant Mediterranean flair .

The drink selection is equally impressive. Sip on mouth-watering mocktails and stylish cocktails, enhanced by Moroccan teas and herbal infusions to round off your meal in vibrant fashion.

Loka’s interior elevates the dining experience: marble tables, plush blue chairs, lush greenery and soft lighting create a bright yet cozy environment, perfect for weekend brunches, casual lunches or lively get-togethers . Reviewers praise the venue’s friendly vibe and high-quality dishes in a comfortable setting .

Reasonably priced (most mains around £15–£22), and open daily from 8 AM to 11 PM, Loka Lounge also caters to parties and events with tailored menus and warm hospitality .

In summary, whether you’re craving a casual Mediterranean brunch, vibrant mezze plates, or polished evening dining, Loka Restaurant & Lounge delivers flavor, flair and a friendly atmosphere that’s hard to resist. Definitely worth stepping off Gloucester Road for.