Ibn Gabirol Street

Shlomo Ibn Gabirol Street or Ibn Gvirol (pronounced Even Gvirol) is one of Tel Aviv’s main thruways, running for 4km, from Shai Agnon Street in the north to Carlebach Street in the south. This long commercial and residential street virtually crosses all of Tel Aviv and its character changes as it progresses through the different neighborhoods.

Several of Tel Aviv’s most famous streets cross Ibn Gvirol including Dizengoff, Frishman, and Arlozorov. A row of palm trees lines the center of Ibn Gvirol and the sidewalks are generously wide. Every few meters there is a sidewalk café, street food outlet, bar, or restaurant. And by the way, in case you’re wondering, Solomon ben Yehuda Ibn Gabirol was an 11th-century Jewish philosopher and poet from Andalusia. One of the best ways to explore Ibn Gvirol Street is on a Tel Aviv bike tour.

Points of Interest on Ibn Gvirol Street

At the northern end of the street, Ibn Gvirol passes over Yarkon Park. This is Tel Aviv’s “green lung” and a beautiful oasis in the busy city. Yarkon Park offers several attractions including a botanical garden, a climbing wall, and rowboat rental on the Yarkon River that flows through the park.

Ibn Gvirol’s best-known landmark is Rabin Square which stands in front of the Tel Aviv municipal building. In 1995, Prime Minister Yitzhak Rabin was assassinated here, and the square renamed in his honor. Rabin Square is a popular venue for protests, festivals, and annual events. The space has a memorial wall for Rabin, some unique public artwork, and a pleasant fountain. Ibn Gvirol is home to several cultural venues like the Enav Cultural Center and Tzavta Theater where you can see live performances and art exhibitions. There are several art galleries along this famous street including Yair Art Gallery.

Where to Eat and Drink on Ibn Gvirol Street, Tel Aviv

You’ll be spoiled for the choice of eateries along the length of this famous Tel Aviv street. Top eateries include Vitrina at #36 famed for gourmet hamburgers; at #70 Brasserie serves excellent seafood; get Olivery’s great Italian food at #137, and at #30, River has excellent Asian food. One of Tel Aviv’s most famous chef restaurants, Miznon, is at #23. The restaurant takes Middle Eastern street food to a new level. PokeShop, at #62 serves kosher poke bowls. At #49 Giraffe is one of Israel’s finest pan-Asian restaurants.

Chocolate-lovers should check out the street’s specialty chocolate stores. For a taste of Tel Aviv coffee culture head for The Streets (#114 Ibn Gvirol) which is open 24/7. And visit the much-loved Mae Café at #98. Otto (#76) is the place for celebs to see and be seen, and the Greek-themed HaMezeg at #151 Ibn Gvirol is another great choice.