5 Best Restaurants in Tiberias, Lower Galilee

Built on a pier extending into the Sea of Galilee, this family-run restaurant has breathtaking views from seats indoors and outside. This airy, casual spot with wooden tables and metal chairs is something of an institution, and locals keep coming back for the delicious meats—sizzling steaks, succulent goose liver, or long skewers of veal and vegetables, grilled slowly over hickory wood. The bluefin tuna carpaccio, caught by the manager's brother, is a delicacy. Save room for dessert, as all dishes are homemade.

You can't miss Big Ben, just at the top of the boardwalk; this casual spot is practically a landmark. An outdoor terrace with seating overlooks the promenade, and inside, a beautiful antique wooden bar features eight beers on tap. There are more tables indoors, too. The menu covers all the bases: pastas, fish and meat on the grill, chicken schnitzel and fries for the kids. The friendly vibe at this large place is what draws people back: the food is not always the best.

This faux-Chinese temple has an outdoor patio overlooking the lake, and across the road is a maze of more intimate rooms entered through a garden. The kosher menu of various Asian cuisines and some international favorites is identical at both places, so pick your favorite and try the Thai soups (such as the tasty hot-and-sour soup), the lamb spareribs, or strips of beef with peanut sauce. There's a sushi bar, too.

An impressive brick building and a terrace with lovely views of the Sea of Galilee are great draws. The dairy and salad menu of this bistro, bar, and café has a fine selection of breakfast dishes, salads, pasta, calzones, sandwiches, quiche, and desserts. Locals rave about the cheese blintzes with sweet cheese and raisins. There is music most evenings, plus air-conditioning and a full bar.

This quiet, modern café is a good place for a meal anytime. The menu features pasta, pizza, and salads as well as breakfast items. There is outdoor seating, but ask for a table inside near the window to enjoy the Wi-Fi, air-conditioning, and people-watching.