7 Best Bars in Israel

This alternative pub is a relaxed meeting place for musicians, writers, and artists. Old concert announcement posters in Arabic decorate the walls; seating spills from a lofted indoor space onto a small outdoor plaza. You can grab a plate of sushi next door, and then wander over to Al-Jisser to listen to one of the frequent live music acts or to watch a film screening.

The lovely Duke is a civilized, old-world Irish pub with good draft beers, other libations from whiskey to wine, and a menu with such standbys as fish-and-chips. Bottles on display and plenty of dark wood add to the convivial atmosphere.

One of the oldest bars in Tel Aviv, the Monastery is a gritty, down-to-earth pub that's popular with a slightly older after-work crowd, as well as with students later in the evening and on weekends. The kitchen serves up some fine food, too.

The country's most authentic Irish pub is—no surprise—run by an Irishman, Robert Segal. Live music reverberates on Friday afternoon. There's a full menu, including such Emerald Isle favorites as shepherd's pie and beef stew.

Looking for all the world like an American sports bar, Paddy's stocks more than 50 kinds of international beers, including 16 on draft. Everything here is big: the food menu, the wooden patio, and the bar, said to be the largest in Eilat. On game nights you have your choice of nine screens, or you can pass the time upstairs on one of the four pool tables. Bands play twice a week on summer nights.

One of Haifa's oldest and most reliable pubs, the cozy Pundak HaDov (The Bear Inn) tends to fill with enthusiastic sports fans cheering on their favorite teams in front of four big screens. The menu has ample choices for snacks and full meals.

Live music is the claim to fame at this very popular pub, where the shows kick off most nights at around 10:30 pm. The crowd includes people of all ages, and they hang out around the bar or dance until last call.