The story
On Yehuda Halevi Street, away from the bustle of nearby Rothschild, Cicchetti channels the warmth of Venice’s traditional bacari. The name itself – cicchetti – refers to the small, savory snacks served in those beloved Italian bars, and this Tel Aviv outpost captures that spirit with a cheerful, welcoming atmosphere.
The food menu is the work of Chef Michael Gartofsky, who builds his dishes around the Italian philosophy of simplicity and precision. Small plates change with the seasons, rooted in regional cooking techniques and a deep respect for the boot-shaped country’s culinary traditions. They are designed to be enjoyed one or two at a time alongside a light cocktail, or assembled into a full dinner with a carafe of wine.
Behind the bar, Avi Kashi crafts the cocktail menu – a mix of booze and soul that completes the neighborhood-bar experience. The result is a place where a glass of Prosecco or a local wine in hand signals that Cicchetti is doing its job: bringing people together.
Cicchetti serves dinner from the afternoon onward. On Fridays and Saturdays, it opens earlier for brunch – a lazy, indulgent meal that offers the same seasonal small plates in a relaxed weekend rhythm, paired with a spritz or cocktail.
The restaurant’s approach has earned it a 2 Forks award from Gambero Rosso, a recognition reserved for restaurants that deliver an authentic, high-quality Italian dining experience. It’s a fitting nod to a place that treats food, drink, and hospitality as one seamless, joyful affair.
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