The Jaffa Flea Market (Shuk HaPishpushim) has transformed itself in the last few years from a treasure trove of antiques, hand-made and second-hand items into a trendy area of shops, galleries and restaurants. Many of the old Arabic houses that were standing in ruins for many years have been renovated, and late last year on Beit Eshel Street, a new 44-room boutique hotel was opened called Market House. It is part of the Atlas Hotel Group (which also includes Art+Hotel, Melody and Cinema Hotels), known for interesting designer hotels in Israel at reasonable prices.
The Market House Hotel Tel Aviv is their latest addition. Boasting modern design in an urban, yet historical setting, the hotel contains the archeological remains of a Byzantine-era chapel. Many rooms have balconies; some have sea views. The Market House does have all the usual amenities such as free Wi-Fi, and best of all, it’s just a short walk to the fantastic beach promenade, old Jaffa and the chic Neveh Tzedek neighborhood. Free bicycles are available for those wishing to cycle on the beach all the way north to Hertzelia. For more cycling routes, see here.
The immediate neighborhood is home to newly opened restaurants, bars, and cafes. Many of the old antique shops are still there and one can browse around to find special items for the home or for gifts. Jaffa itself has experienced a renaissance in the last ten years and it is now one of the hottest places to live in Tel Aviv. Many old crumbling manor houses and monasteries have been restored. Gourmet restaurants have opened not just around the flea market, but in other areas of Jaffa.
About Arnon Kohavi
