3 Best Restaurants in Eilat and the Negev, Israel

One of the best tapas bars in Eilat has a relaxing atmosphere, thanks to leather-backed booths and tastefully subdued lighting. The bar, quite lively on weekends, offers some of the most accomplished bartenders in the city. As for the tapas, you can't go wrong with the goose liver and pears on brioche. You can also choose between your favorite cuts of meat, or opt for the locally raised lamb ribs or the foie gras marinated in a red wine sauce.

A longtime favorite in Eilat, this kosher lunch place is a top-drawer example of Moroccan-Israeli cooking, all of it by an accomplished mother-and-son team. When you arrive at this simple dining room, five different salads (including cauliflower, tahini, eggplant, and hot peppers) are quickly placed in front of you, and the menu further rewards you with adventuresome entrée choices. Consider such delicacies as beef cooked with hummus (a house specialty), calves' brains served with Moroccan spices, or succulent couscous with vegetables, chickpeas, and tender chicken. No fancy pitas here—just plain bread. Dessert is specially prepared fruit, such as oranges or plums cooked until thick and soft, accompanied by fresh mint tea.

This chic bar and upscale fish restaurant overlooks the harbor at the Eilat promenade, offering white-tablecloth dining indoors and out. Recommended starters are gravlax and seafood carpaccio. Steaks are a choice entrée, but innovative, attractive fish presentations are the star of the show; portions are generous. The friendly, attentive staff can recommend a nice pairing from the extensive wine and beer menu.