8 Ma'avar Yabok Street

Tel: 972-52-703-5888

Dinner as theater is alive and well in Tel Aviv—nowhere more so than at The Salon. Located in an obscure industrial area on the city's outskirts, the restaurant is open just two nights a week and serves a single nonnegotiable menu. Aided by some half-dozen cooks, local celeb chef Shani produces innovative dishes: A paper-thin slice of eggplant arrives in a cloud of tomato puree and rich tehina, while an unconventional salad bursts with some six different kinds of tomatoes, from smoked to brined. The gregarious chef is a constant presence and lovely desserts, like buttery rich brioche infused with raisins and Valrhona chocolate, are easy endings to one of the most complex meals in town.
Tip: Book a table after 9:30 P.M., when the restaurant shifts into dinner party mode, complete with dancing and disco music (entrées, $16–$19).