A Casual Drink in Tel Aviv?

In Tel Aviv, there are plenty of places to grab a drink, but given the city’s small size, it’s hard to avoid running into someone you know and the small talk that comes along with it.

Everything often feels so extravagant, making it difficult to find a laid back casual spot where you can have a casual drink and read a book uninterrupted.

I’ve put together a list of places that strike the right balance between casual and not too noisy, where you can go alone, enjoy a casual drink, read your book and not make small talk.

The criteria for choosing these spots include: low chances of running into someone you know, music that’s not too loud or distracting, a relaxed vibe (nothing too fussy), the drink feels casual, and no need to make a reservation.

This is Part 1 of a series of reccomendations to follow.

First: Open Wine – The Frenkel Branch

This wine store offers an incredible selection of wines. You can sit in the back, where the chances of bumping into someone are almost zero. There’s no music, and the cozy, Christmas like atmosphere makes it perfect for reading.

Since it’s a wine shop, you can pick any bottle you like, and the price is just the store price, and not the inflated Tel Aviv bar prices that we are used to. It’s casual, affordable, and perfect for reading on your book or Kindle.

Second: The Guest Room

A cocktail bar that’s surprisingly calm and casual, especially during happy hour. They also serve wine! Despite the excellent cocktails, for some reason, it’s not a place where you're likely to run into people you know, so you can relax and read without any interruptions.

Without happy hour, it can be a bit pricey, but it still offers a pleasant aesthetic and vibe, making it a nice place for a casual drink or cocktail while reading.

Third: Mikve

This wine shop and bar lets you buy a bottle or order by the glass. It’s affordable and offers a cozy atmosphere for reading, especially inside. While it’s located on a relatively busy street, the chance of running into someone outside is still low, making it a great spot to enjoy a casual drink and a book.

Honorary Mention: The Library Bar

A beautiful venue with amazing cocktails, the Library Bar has a more upscale and less casual feel, unless you are rich ha ha. However, it’s still a great spot to enjoy a drink and read if you don’t mind a more refined atmosphere.