~ By Rachel Myerson, Delicious Taste-Tester  

Shuk Rothschild Allenby is the newest kid on the block. Hot on the heels of the influx of ‘posh markets’ (we’re looking at you, Sarona and Shuk Hatzafon), that have popped up in Tel Aviv in recent years, Shuk Rothschild Allenby (Shuk RA? Shuk Meier? We still aren't certain what its nickname will be, it isn't exactly a Shuk after all) boasts a similarly sophisticated vibe. No shouting vendors, no piles of produce, and no feasting street cats to be found, but calm, orderly food stands with decent bathrooms to boot.

Shuk Rothschild Allenby is essentially a fancy food court, not that that’s a bad thing. Home to some Carmel Market favourites, such as Hamalabiya and Bunny Chow, and some newbies that we are excited to try, notably Men TenTen Ramen, and Chipsea King with their generous portions of fried seafood and fish, it has something for everyone.

Its secret to success, we reckon, will be its central location on Rothschild Boulevard, slap bang in the middle of Tel Aviv’s start-up scene. Plus, Shuk Rothschild Allenby is open until 2am, giving us access to midnight snacks and Israeli craft beers well after bedtime. 

Our advice? Start off at "Mexico City" and get yourselves a huge, slushy Margarita, a total bargain at NIS 20, and start your tasting exploration from there.

Editor's Addition: just visited Men Tenten for Ramen, which is on the "back" side of the market. It was solid, though go with balanced expectations. The menu gives the choice of 3 types of ramen: pork, chicken and vegan (agedashi tofu) and 3 types of gyoza. Also, the place is quite small, so you may end up waiting in line if you visit during busy hours.