19 Cleveland Review: An Ode to Tel Aviv
19 Cleveland, a Mediterranean restaurant fittingly located on Cleveland Place, is a true representation of Tel Avivian cuisine. While many Israeli restaurants have recently opened in New York City, 19 Cleveland stands out for staying true to its Tel Aviv roots with a lively ambiance, colorful decor, and delicious hummus, of course. After spending two months in Central Tel Aviv this past summer, I had been searching the city for the authentic Mediterranean flavors that I missed so much, and this restaurant did not miss the mark.
Immediately after stepping foot inside you’re hit with an array of green hanging vines, neon signs, and good vibes; the perfect mix of playful yet put together. After being seated you might notice the layered twinkle lights, exposed painted white brick, or the variety of Israeli cookbooks on display, all reminiscent of the Tel Aviv restaurant scene. But, above all, the most apparent aspect of 19 Cleveland on a first glance is the open kitchen with the chefs singing and dancing along with the customers, just like it would be on Dizengoff Square. Observing the restaurant in itself is a pleasure, but just wait until you begin to smell the aroma of crispy za’atar chickpeas and freshly fried schnitzel.
The best item on the menu without a doubt is the hummus, not because there aren’t more delicious dishes, but simply because it’s authentic and completely reminiscent of a beachside Tel Aviv cafe. This creamy hummus with heavy notes of tahini transports me back to my feet in the sand with a smile on my face, listening to the seaside waves crash at sunset. Along with the hummus, you’ll have to order the spicy falafel burger, the roasted cauliflower, and if you’re lucky enough to get it while it’s on a seasonal menu, the grilled halloumi salad. The falafel burger carries balanced notes of harissa and smoked paprika, served on a toasted brioche bun with sliced avocado and za’atar fries. This dish has both classic and modern notes of the cuisine, fused together to create a beautiful dining experience. You might be thinking that the Yemen duck tacos or grass-fed beef burger sound more intriguing, but this plant-based delight is the way to go. In all honesty, the roasted cauliflower from another personal favorite of mine, 12 chairs, is better than the dish at 19 cleveland. But, that being said, this cauliflower is doused in an herbaceous yogurt and tahini sauce which helps it to thrive. You’ll want to order the half rather than the whole to save room for the several rounds of fluffy pita you’ll most definitely be devouring throughout the meal.
The lively Israeli music permeating through the environment truly brings a sense of Tel Aviv to New York. It’s fun, it’s carefree, and it’s addicting; so addicting that you’ll probably order an extra Limonana cocktail, one of their signature drinks with Arak, lemon, and mint, just so you feel like you’re back on Rothschild street again (or there for the first time). Perfect for a Saturday night with friends, 19 Cleveland is your one stop shop for quality, flavorful food and an effortless party-like atmosphere. Don’t visit too often though, or you might find yourself making excuses to book trips to Tel Aviv on a yearly basis, just like me.
