Chef Yossi Shitrit Opens New Tel Aviv Grill Restaurant AFRIT

Renowned chef Yossi Shitrit, the creative force behind upscale dining spots like Hiba and Bandit, has unveiled his latest culinary venture in Tel Aviv. Located at 12 Da Vinci Street, AFRIT is a sophisticated yet accessible shipudiya (skewered meat grill) offering an array of grilled skewers, traditional starters, meats, fish, fine wines, and cocktails. The restaurant operates from Monday through Saturday, serving guests during both lunch and dinner hours.

The name AFRIT derives from an Arabic word referring to a mischievous spirit or demon in regional folklore—a playful nod to his previous spot, Bandit. Despite the fiery moniker, the menu embraces comforting culinary traditions. Diners can enjoy a classic table-spreading starter for 48 shekels per person, alongside appetizers such as falafel for 28 shekels, French fries for 32 shekels, hummus for 36 shekels, and freshly chopped salad for 46 shekels.

Signature Skewers and Grilled Delicacies

The heart of the menu lies in its diverse selection of grilled meats and skewers crafted with meticulous care by Shitrit. Standout dishes include the shish-kebab made from a precise blend of 60 percent lamb and 40 percent beef for 66 shekels, a vibrant green lamb kebab at the same price, and the Greek-inspired Kasseri kebab featuring rich Kasseri cheese for 72 shekels. Meat enthusiasts can also sample the kofta kebab—a chicken patty wrapped in savory beef fat—alongside classic chicken liver skewers and fresh sea fish seasoned with citrus and coriander seeds.

The desire to open this restaurant was born from a lifelong aspiration to make great food accessible to everyone and to create a place where people can simply drop by, eat, and enjoy, explains Chef Yossi Shitrit.

For those seeking larger portions, the menu features tender lamb chops, lamb sirloin, and succulent entrecote cubes. The ultimate indulgence is the goose liver, priced at 198 shekels. To complement the hearty dishes, the bar offers an expertly curated cocktail menu ranging from 52 to 62 shekels, accompanied by a robust selection of white, red, rosé, and sparkling wines.

Design and Atmosphere

The striking interior design of AFRIT was spearheaded by renowned architect Pitsou Kedem, who centered the entire space around an open grill and a dramatic two-story ventilation hood. Communal tables are arranged around the grilling station, complemented by charred wood accents, burnt wooden slats, and sleek glass vitrines showcasing premium cuts of meat before they hit the flames.