Israeli breakfasts are an unforgettable experience for visitors from abroad, who are often amazed at the wide array of delicious dishes on offer at hotels, inns, guest houses and cafés throughout the country – and Tel Aviv hotels are no exception.

What does an Israeli Breakfast consist of?

A typical Israeli breakfast usually includes fresh fruit juice, tea and coffee, eggs, salad, cheese, freshly baked bread, as well as olives, butter and jam. Breakfast served in a hotel is commonly named after the establishment itself, rather than being simply termed ‘Israeli breakfast’ – but if a breakfast has all the previously mentioned ingredients then it’s fair to say it’s an Israeli breakfast.

How did the Israeli Breakfast come about?

The origins of this hearty meal hark back to the early 20th century, when kibbutz workers started their working day at dawn in the fields. After several hours’ work the ravenous workers needed some serious nourishment, and gathered in the communal dining room, where they dined on whatever the kibbutz happened to have on offer. And this often meant fresh juice, eggs, and diary produce.

Hotels followed the Kibbutz Lead

Since hotels couldn’t offer visitors non-kosher items such as bacon and sausages with dairy items, they came up with the idea of a buffet style breakfast which offers a wide variety of eggs, vegetables, cheeses, cereals, fish, salad, yogurts, fruit and bread to their guests. This plentiful supply of food has become a traditional way to start the day – a feast fit for a king – keeping hunger pangs at bay for many hours to come.