We thought that the Czech beer from the tap, an ice-cold Krusovice dark for me, and a light one for my companion, would hit the spot. And we were right. It was just what we needed.
Just 20 minutes from downtown Tel Aviv, I have to admit that the city of Bat Yam never really held any attraction for me. Until recently that is. With a boardwalk that rivals Tel Aviv’s and some of the most beautiful urban beaches in the eastern Mediterranean, the city of Bat Yam has focused on becoming a tourist - and lately - a cultural, attraction. From open-air art exhibitions to street theatre festivals, the city seems to be a rising star on the cultural landscape. And the change has not been lost on its citizens, who are demanding better and higher quality services, including food.
Karas is a pleasant restaurant located towards the south end of the boardwalk. A small, indoor room provides romantic d?cor for that special evening out. Dark wooden tables, handmade leather couches, small red chandeliers and blue-gold embossed wallpaper imported especially from Moscow, provide the restaurant with a unique ambiance, the likes of which are hard to come by. For those who want to enjoy the sea breeze, the restaurant has a two level wooden deck, which includes VIP seating. But enough about the interior design and on to the food!
Arriving in the early evening, I really did not know what to expect from Karas. We were greeted by the smiling staff and shown to our seats. A quick glance at the menu, and we realized that there is something very different about this restaurant. The wealth of dishes offered means that an outing with picky family or friends, can turn into a light-hearted meal. From pasta, to meat and seafood, sandwiches, pizza and even humus, there is something here for everyone. Even sushi. A lot of thought and effort has been put into the rich menu and the multi-talented chef does not compromise on quality.
At the owner’s recommendation, we decided to order the seafood platter – one of the restaurant’s specialties. We thought that the Czech beer from the tap, an ice-cold Krusovice dark for me, and a light one for my companion, would hit the spot. And we were right. It was just what we needed. After a few minutes, we were greeted by a large platter of a variety of seafood. Crabs, shrimps calamari and mussels were cooked (not fried) in a rich creamy sauce, best sopped up with the fresh loaf of bread that was served with the meal. While designed for two very hungry people, the seafood platter could comfortably be enough for three. With no room left to move, we decided to forego the dessert – something that we will not do on our next visit to this wonderful place. So whether looking for a place to take the family or just a romantic snack, Karas provides the ideal setting for everyone.
Karas
91 Ben guryon, Bat Yam
03-5650526
