2 Best Restaurants in Eilat and the Negev, Israel

The Eilat offshoot of the Tel Aviv chain is known for juicy burgers and a copious selection of beers on tap. In a small complex of bars and restaurants, Agadir's slightly off-the-beaten-track locale makes it feel more intimate than your average burger joint. The restaurant draws a lively nighttime crowd seeking solid food and drink, the main draw being good-quality beef (or veggie) patties topped with condiments ranging from goose breast to a sunny-side-up egg and caramelized onions. Appetizers include juicy merguez sausage and meat-filled Moroccan "cigars" that are made on the premises. You can also opt for Moroccan fish or meaty sirloin sandwiches.

If you're looking for fantastic kibbutz-made ice cream, stop by this inn—an Israeli institution—next to a gas station on Route 90 between the Yotvata Hai-Bar Nature Reserve and Timna Park, 40 km (25 miles) north of Eilat. The kibbutz of the same name is across the way, and its dairy products are much loved by locals. (Check out the chocolate-milk fountain!) Hot chicken or beef dishes are available as well. It's open 24 hours (though closed Saturday night), but the late-night food menu is more limited.