אל על | אטמוספירה

Photo: Nicky Trok

Indian cuisine | Hodu Haktana, Beer Sheba

“Hodu Haktana” (“Little India” in Hebrew) went from being a small family-run eatery to a beloved vegetarian institution that locals, foodies, and students from the nearby university flock to in droves. Owner and chef Hanoch Stamker has been specializing in Indian food for many years, and with the help of Indian-born chefs he has created a menu that combines tastes and flavors from all corners of India, showcasing all the classics, such as chana samosa in chana masala

sauce, Punjabi potato-stuffed samosa, sweet potato vada with spicy chutney, tikka masala fish pakora, thali platters, biryani dishes, and more. Hodu Haktana invites diners on a veritable journey through the flavors of India, and the restaurant’s typical Indian interior offers the choice between upright tables and cushion-on-the floor seating. Note that a second Hodu Haktana location has opened in Ramat Gan and that vegan versions of many dishes are available. hoduhaktana.co.il There seems to be total foodie consensus about how great this little Eilat-based Italian style trattoria is. Pastory’s simple but elegant rusticity invites diners to take a seat and enjoy a bit of the dolce vita. Open for more than twenty years now, this restaurant has become a favorite among locals and tourists alike, who keep coming back for the top-quality pasta, gnocchi, meat and fish dishes, salads, risottos, pizzas made by an expert pizzaiolo, and more. A glass of wine or a refreshing cocktail from the rich drinks menu are the perfect accompaniment to this delightful Italian culinary experience. pastory.co.il

Photo: Danya Weiner

From Bangkok with love | Thai Underground, Pardes-Hanna The success story behind this wonderful Thai eatery began with the launch of a humble food stall by owners Yoav and Sagit Zidon, in front of their woodworking studio. After years of traveling to Thailand and falling in love with its landscapes, food, and culture, the pad thais and lotis they were serving up were so good and authentic, word about them quickly spread in Pardes Hanna, and the lines in front of the stall kept getting longer. Opening hours were extended and the menu expanded, but it soon became clear more space was in need. The couple then opened their first restaurant in a beautiful building that once served the regional farmers’ association, where they also created an organic herb and vegetable garden. Delicious dumplings, eggrolls, fresh salads, soups, curries, stir-fries, and of course pad thais, are all served in a relaxed pastoral atmosphere, with vegan and gluten-free options available as well. @thai_underground

A taste of Italy | Pastory, Eilat

Photo: Rony Balahsan

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ATMOSPHERE JUNE 2023