The hype
Reviewers are obsessed with the breakfast and the architecture, calling it the 'best boutique hotel in Tel Aviv' for couples.
The Drisco
$350-650/ night
Book this if You want a grown-up, culinary-focused sanctuary in a historic building, and you don't care about having a pool.
Why People Love It
- George & John restaurant is arguably the best in Tel Aviv right now
- Stunning Ottoman-era restoration that feels authentic, not kitschy
- Service is exceptionally polished for Israel (where service can be... rough)
Quick Take: A gorgeous, historic foodie heaven that forces you to walk to the beach because there is absolutely no pool.
Reviewed by @travelwithhilla: I felt like royalty staying here. The mix of history and modern luxury is perfect—sipping wine in the bath was my favorite moment. If you love architecture and romance, this is the spot in Tel Aviv.
Guest Who Stayed Here Said
Reality check
Guests expecting a resort experience are bitter about the lack of a pool and the distance to the beach (10-15 min walk).
- You are a foodie who books hotels based on restaurant reservations
- You appreciate historic architecture (1866 Ottoman/Templar style)
- You want a quiet, romantic escape away from the chaotic center of Tel Aviv
Cleanliness & Maintenance
9.6
- Housekeeping: Impeccable. Daily service is thorough, with turndown service often included.
- Bathroom hygiene: Spotless marble bathrooms. No reports of mold or grime.
- Maintenance: Excellent condition. The restoration is recent (2018) and well-maintained.
- Linens & towels: High-thread-count Egyptian cotton, plush and fresh.
- Odors & scents: Signature scent in the lobby (citrus/woodsy), rooms smell neutral and clean.
Sleepability™
8SILENT
0-4LOUD
4-7.5MODERATE
7.5-10SILENT
- Rooftop bar music (evenings)
- Occasional street noise from Auerbach Street
Before you book
Good to know
- The hotel is in the American-German Colony, which is quieter and prettier than downtown but further from the main action.
- Valet parking is available but costs ~95 ILS ($25-30) per night.
- Breakfast is widely considered one of the best in the city—do not skip it.
What to pack
- Walking shoes—you are between Jaffa and Neve Tzedek, perfect for walking but cobblestones abound.
- Dinner outfit—George & John is a 'see and be seen' spot.
Room Genie
Best picks
- Villa Drisco rooms for a unique, historic wooden chalet vibe
- Garden Suites for private outdoor space away from the street
- Sea View rooms on high floors (though the view is distant/urban)
Rooms to avoid
- Attic rooms if you hate stairs (no elevator access)
- Top floor rooms directly under the rooftop bar if you are a light sleeper
Room Request Genie – copy & paste
“I am looking forward to my stay. Please assign a room NOT directly under the rooftop bar to avoid evening noise. Also, please ensure I am NOT in an Attic room as I require elevator access.”
FAQ & Hidden tips
Everything you actually want to know before you book.
Is there really no pool?
Correct. Zero pool. No rooftop pool, no indoor pool. You have to go to the beach.
Is the restaurant actually that good?
Yes. George & John was voted the Best Restaurant in Israel (50 Best Discovery) and is Michelin Guide recommended. It's a destination in itself.
How far is the beach?
It's about a 10-15 minute walk to the nearest beach (Alma Beach/Charles Clore Park).
Can I bring my dog?
No, the hotel has a strict no-pets policy.
Is it noisy?
The neighborhood is quieter than central Tel Aviv, but the rooftop bar can cause noise issues for rooms on the top floor.
Is breakfast included?
Usually not in the base rate, and it's expensive (~$44/person), but reviews say it's worth every penny.
Insider Tips
- ✨
Ask for a tour of the basement/wine cellar—it's where Mark Twain stayed when it was the Jerusalem Hotel.
- ✨
Happy Hour is often served to guests in the lounge/bar (check current timing, usually 5-7pm) with free wine.
- ✨
The 'Villa Drisco' rooms are in a separate wooden building next door—more privacy but a different vibe.
5 things to know before you go
💡The 'Sea View' is more of a 'Sea Glimpse' over other buildings.
💡The elevator is small and historic—can be slow.
💡You are right next to a church (Immanuel Church), so you might hear bells.
💡The 'Attic' rooms are charming but the stairs are steep and narrow.
💡The neighborhood feels more like Europe than the Middle East due to the Templar architecture.
Local Playbook
Map
See where The Drisco is located and what's nearby.