Traveling to Israel as an Indian whether for tourism, work, study, or pilgrimage is a rich cultural journey, and food is a big part of it. However, Indian visitors may encounter unfamiliar dietary practices such as kosher laws, different definitions of vegetarianism, and culturally significant food restrictions. From what to eat and what to avoid, to where to shop and how to prepare your meals, here’s your complete guide to enjoying food in Israel while staying true to your dietary values.
Dos Respect Local Dietary Norms
Many Israelis follow kosher rules:
No pork or shellfish.
No mixing of meat and dairy in the same meal.
Meat must be ritually slaughtered.
Restaurants areoften marked as Basar (meat),Halav (dairy), or Parve (neutral).
Embrace Vegetarian Delights
Israel is incredibly vegetarian- and vegan-friendly.
Common plant-based dishes include:
Falafel, hummus, shakshuka, Israeli salad, bourekas, and Sabich.
Explore Grocery Stores and Markets
Major chains: Shufersal, Rami Levy, Victory.
Look for:
Fresh vegetables, fruits, and legumes.
Dairy and plant-based alternatives.
Packaged foods are often marked as Kosher.
Markets like Mahane Yehuda (Jerusalem) and Carmel Market (Tel Aviv) are great for local snacks.
Learn Key Food Terms
“Ani Tzomeach” (אני צמחוני) – I’m vegetarian
“Ani Tiv’oni” (אני טבעוני) – I’m vegan
“Lo ochel basar” – I don’t eat meat
Be Culturally Considerate
During Jewish holidays (e.g., Passover, Yom Kippur):
Many fast or eat symbolic foods.
Restaurants may close or offer limited options.
Don’ts: What to Avoid
Don’t Bring or Consume Restricted Items
Avoid pork, shellfish, and non-kosher meats in Jewish spaces or kosher homes.
Don’t Mix Meat and Dairy
Strict kosher law forbids combining these.
Kosher restaurants will never serve dishes that contain both (e.g., no cheeseburgers).
Don’t Assume “Vegetarian” Means Eggless or Jain-Friendly
Israeli vegetarian food may include eggs or fish.
Be clear if you avoid eggs, garlic, or onion.
Don’t Eat in Public on Religious Fasting Days
Avoid eating or drinking publicly in ultra-Orthodox areas during Yom Kippur or Tisha B’Av.
Don’t Confuse Kosher with Halal
Kosher is not the same as halal.
Muslim travelers should seek halal-certified restaurants, especially in Arab-majority areas.
For Religious and Special Diets
Jain Travelers
Jain dietary laws (no root vegetables, onion, garlic) are not common in Israel.
Recommended:
Book stays with kitchenettes or cooking options.
Bring ready-to-eat meals, spices, and snacks from India.
Use ingredients like lentils, rice, and legumes easily available locally.
Muslim Travelers
Halal food is available in:
East Jerusalem, Nazareth, Jaffa, Haifa, and other Arab towns.
Avoid assuming kosher = halal. Always confirm with restaurant staff.
Indian Food Availability in Israel
Indian Restaurants
Tel Aviv: Tandoori, Captain Curry, Dosa Bar, Namaste
Jerusalem: Himalaya, HaGov Indian Cuisine
Haifa & Eilat: Limited but growing options
Grocery Stores
Some Indian essentials (like lentils, rice, spices) may be found in ethnic or Asian stores.
Variety is limited—pack your own supply if you're staying long-term.
What to Pack From India
Essentials to carry for comfort and dietary peace of mind:
Spices: Garam masala, cumin, chili powder, turmeric.
Ready-to-eat meals (Jain, veg, halal variants).
Tea leaves, chai masala, and an electric kettle.
Pickles, papads, khakhra, and dry snacks like thepla.
Pressure cooker/rice cooker for longer stays.
Tips
Use Google Translate or print dietary cards in Hebrew/Arabic to show at restaurants.
Ask locals or hosts about nearby vegetarian or ethnic-friendly eateries.
During road trips, carry snacks or ready meals to avoid reliance on non-vegetarian food stops.
Want a printable card that says “I am vegetarian. I do not eat meat, fish, or eggs” in Hebrew or Arabic? I can create one just ask.
Eating in Israel as an Indian traveler can be enjoyable, satisfying, and enriching once you're familiar with local food customs. Whether you're savoring hummus in a Tel Aviv café or preparing dal chawal in your Jerusalem kitchen, Israel offers plenty of options for every dietary preference.By learning the basics of kosher practices, exploring vegetarian-friendly dishes, and knowing how to communicate your food needs, you’ll blend respect with comfort, and make the most of every bite on your journey.This guide aims to help you navigate Israeli food culture with confidence and respect whether you're vegetarian, vegan, Jain, or Muslim.
