As we were born and raised in Israel just outside of Tel Aviv, we’ve seen Florentin transform over the years. Let us take you on a journey through this ever changing neighborhood that we’ve known since childhood. We remember when Florentin was just a forgotten corner of Tel Aviv, a place our parents warned us not to wander into after dark. But times have changed! Now, we find ourselves drawn to its narrow streets and cool energy.
The Story of Florentin
Florentin’s story is one of reinvention. Established in 1927, it was initially planned as a respectable neighborhood for craftsmen and small businesses. We can still point out some of the original 3- to 4-story buildings, their classic modern style a testament to a bygone era. Growing up, we heard stories from our grandparents about the first residents – Greek Jews who laid the foundation of this eclectic community. Over time, the neighborhood became a melting pot, welcoming Jewish immigrants from Bulgaria, Poland, Yemen, Uzbekistan, and North Africa. This diverse mix of cultures is still evident today in the faces we see and the aromas wafting from local eateries.
In our youth, Florentin had a reputation as a rough part of town. But we’ve witnessed its remarkable transformation firsthand. The area has blossomed into a haven for young creatives, artists, and free spirits. It’s a far cry from the polished skyscrapers and upscale neighborhoods of central Tel Aviv – and that’s precisely what we love about it.
These days, when we winder through Florentin, we’re struck by the contrast between old and new. Crumbling buildings stand next to trendy cafes and art galleries. The walls themselves tell stories, covered in some of the most impressive street art we’ve seen anywhere in the world. As night falls, Florentin truly comes alive. We often find ourselves drawn to its bars and underground music venues. The energy is infectious, a stark contrast to the more mainstream nightlife in other parts of the city.
What makes Florentin truly special to us is how it’s managed to retain its authenticity despite its growing popularity. Yes, it’s become a hipster hotspot, but you’ll still find longtime residents going about their daily lives, adding to the rich tapestry of the neighborhood.
For anyone looking to experience the real, beating heart of Tel Aviv, away from the glossy tourist traps, we always recommend a visit to Florentin. It’s a place that continues to surprise and inspire us, even after all these years. In Florentin, every corner has a story, every wall is a canva . This is the Tel Aviv we know and love – raw, creative, and endlessly fascinating.
Cool things to do in Florentin
See the street art
We love to just wondar in the middle of the neighborhood, take a look at the old houses, see the craftsmen alongside the artists who have opened workshops and galleries here, search the narrow alleys, and discover little Caffe places. The streets of Florentin basically serve as a large and fascinating outdoor exhibition and a wide open museum, with a huge amount of interesting graffiti covering the walls and houses.
Visit the first automated store in Israel
The first automatic store in Israel, Nowpet, is a unique store that sells equipment and food for pets.
Behind the special venture is a man who dared to set up an automatic store empty of employees, where you can enter with the help of a fingerprint, pay by weight (which is measured by a carpet you will step on at the entrance), and enjoy a significantly cheaper price than most places. While you probably won’t need to get pet food from Israel, entering this unique shop is a cool experience, which will give you a nice glimpse into the future.
Explore the art scene in Michaelson Applied Art Gallery
The Michaelson Applied Art Gallery is a unique gallery that was designed by the artist Amnon Michaeli.
Michaeli, who has a master’s degree in East Asian studies, worked for about 23 years in the procurement field, and at a certain point in his life, when he was touring Florentine, he realized that this was the place where he would open a gallery that would display his art and integrate his vision.
Inspired by museum stores around the world, Michaeli decided to convert his illustrations and drawings into useful products. During your visit here, you can see his great illustrations, known for their great sense of humor, and his richly colorful and very dramatic paintings. In addition to the products presented here, in the gallery, you will also find a collection of useful art items that correspond well with Amnon’s works, such as jewelry, bags, and other unique and creative products.
Walk along the main streets of Florentin
While taking an aimless walk in Florentin is also a great way to explore it, the best way to see the neighborhood is to walk along the two main streets of Florentin: Washington Boulevard and Florentin Street.
Washington Boulevard today is a long street along which you can sit and drink coffee, eat pizza, or just sit around the ficus trees on wooden seats while watching the passers-by and enjoying some street art on the facades.
On Florentin Street, which is just near Washington Boulevard, you can see several cool wall paintings, as well as a mix of old and modern buildings. It’s also a great place to just wander around and get a fair share of people-watching.
Nightlife in Florentin
Shuffle Bar
Shuffle Bar, the most “Florentinian” bar in Florentin is a small and homey bar that can accommodate about 70 people. The warmth here is felt right at the entrance, starting from the friendly atmosphere on the part of the pleasant staff and the local crowd to the jokes and little punches you will find on the menu. Every evening, you will find here changing music that varies between rock, pop, and Israeli music.
Florentin 10
One of the more pleasant and comfortable places in the neighborhood, perhaps thanks to the minimal design, the warm colors, and the investment in pampering sofas and very comfortable bar stools, as well as the slightly more mature atmosphere that characterizes the place. The pleasant lighting and the music at the appropriate volume and tone, which includes pleasant pop, Latin, and rock’n’roll, make the place a good entertainment option even for those over 30. Florentine 10 is open 24/7 and also offers popular breakfast and business meals.
Hoodna
Hoodna Bar, which resembles the peacefulness of nations in the Sinai Peninsula in the bustling Tel Aviv, is the only bar in Israel with a street running through it, which will enable you to decide on the preferred vibe in one of the two spaces. The southern space is used more for chatting and chilling, with dilapidated wooden chairs and tables, a rickety bar, and engravings and texts on every possible wall, and the northern space hosts a different artistic program every night, from cover bands and DJs to stand-up nights.
Mate Bar
We love The Mate Bar, an old-school Tel Aviv pub, made a name for itself mainly thanks to its discounted alcohol menu. Although it is small and a bit dark, it allows for pleasant conversations at the bar and, above all, a pose-free atmosphere. From time to time, you will find here great parties with lines of electronic music and trap.
Mezcal
Mezcal Bar is one of the first Mexican bars in the city, with a completely Mexican design, including inscriptions in Spanish and paintings of luchadors on the walls, and Latin music at high volume.
The place serves Spanish craft beers such as San Miguel Especial and Selecta, as well as Michelada – beer and tomato juice with spices and Tabasco. In the food section, here you will find tacos with different fillings, chili con carne, enchiladas, and chimichangas.
Where to stay in Florentin?
Albi Florentin
A stunning hotel—spotlessly clean and beautifully decorated, with everything you could possibly need in the room. The fully equipped, brand-new kitchenette was a great bonus, allowing us to make breakfast without having to go out. The location is perfect, right in the heart of Florentin, surrounded by lively streets, endless restaurants, and pubs. The hotel’s rooftop is a real highlight, featuring thoughtfully designed greenery and modern furniture, along with a lovely jacuzzi. Truly one of the best hotels we’ve stayed at in Tel Aviv
Spacious 3 BDR in Florentine
A very spacious apartment with the added convenience of two shower rooms and toilets, making it ideal for groups. The central living area is incredibly comfortable, featuring a large dining table and a fully equipped kitchen. We loved that there was no TV in the living room—it gave us more time to relax and enjoy each other’s company.
