EL AL | Atmosphere

See the Sights I Akko

In Search of Authentic Flavors Akko’s oriental market lies right by the port. Its multitude of spice, fruit, vegetable, fish, and pastry stalls dot the meandering alleyways and are a joy to behold. Walking around and taking in the gorgeous smells that fill the air is perfectly lovely, but I warmly recommend joining one of local food expert Nurit Poran’s culinary tours. She’ll whisk you away on a gastronomical whirlwind that includes tasting hummus at Arin Abu-Hamid Kurdi’s eatery and exploring Marwan Kurdi’s spice shop and so much more. (nuritporan.co.il)

Uri Buri. Recently, many new spots offering traditional food with a modern twist have opened their doors. Sama Founded by talented chef Hamudi Akula and ebullient co-owner Hamudi Barghot, this hip rooftop food bar has an open panoramic lounge as well as an indoor dining area. Modernized Arab Galilean cuisine is served in a relaxed atmosphere. On the menu, you’ll find red drum sashimi, fish cigars with amba tahini, mackerel with sheep’s yoghurt, and more. Their signature desert is superb: basbousa served with homemade ice cream. samabar.co.il Ha-sfina This delightful restaurant is perfectly located, with its boat-shaped terrace (“ha-sfina” means “the boat”

in Hebrew) overlooking the ancient port of Akko. Owner Saadi Nabil is himself a fisherman, and the fish and seafood served in his restaurant are his very own catch of the day. Diners are also offered bonus boat rides. Tamar’s Bar Tamar Davidson-Wiesen used to own a gallery in Akko’s Turkish bazaar, but after it got destroyed in a fire, she decided to change gear and launch a lounge bar on the rooftop of her and her husband Meir’s boutique hotel Akotika. She combines her love of food, drink, and aesthetics to create delightful cocktails served alongside wonderful salads, sandwiches, dips, and baked delights. The stunning view and sea breeze are a strong bonus, as are the bar’s superb design and tasteful background music. For a second there you might think you’re

Where to eat

Akko is famous for its outstanding hummus and excellent fish restaurants such as the legendary

16 ATMOSPHERE AUGUST 2022