🇮🇱🌏

Asians in Israel

Connecting the Asian community across Israel 🇮🇱

businesses

Saka Ba: Authentic Osaka-Style Izakaya in Tel Aviv

A
3 min read
Saka Ba izakaya interior in Tel Aviv's Florentin neighborhood

Saka Ba: Authentic Osaka-Style Izakaya in Tel Aviv

Saka Ba izakaya interior in Tel Aviv's Florentin neighborhood

Saka Ba is an intimate Japanese izakaya that opened in early 2025 in Tel Aviv’s vibrant Florentin neighborhood. Drawing direct inspiration from the after-work drinking culture of Osaka, this authentic establishment recreates the convivial atmosphere of a traditional Japanese tavern where locals gather to unwind over drinks and shareable dishes.

The Concept

Founded by Assaf Menachem (owner of Mententen) and Japanese chef Masaya, Saka Ba operates as a true izakaya—a hybrid between a casual bar and small-plates restaurant. Unlike formal dining establishments, the izakaya format emphasizes informality and encourages guests to linger over multiple rounds of small bites alongside sake or beer, mirroring the late-night taverns of Osaka’s entertainment districts.

The menu features approximately 25 items, each priced below 70 NIS, reflecting the izakaya tradition of accessible, flavor-packed plates:

Signature Dishes

  • Gyūdon - Thinly sliced beef over rice with raw egg yolk and pickled ginger
  • Tori Udon - Dashi-based chicken noodle soup with bamboo shoots and spinach
  • Mini Tomato - Cherry tomatoes cured in traditional Japanese marinade
  • Niku Sashimi - Seasoned beef sashimi with scallions and sesame
  • Sāshi Maki and Maguro Norimaki - Sushi-style rolls

The menu’s simplicity belies its depth, relying on authentic Japanese techniques and ingredients to deliver a genuine Osaka izakaya experience.

Beverage Selection

Saka Ba features an extensive Japanese beverage program: - More than a dozen varieties of sake - Shōchū distilled from rice, sweet potato, or plums - Japanese whiskies and craft beers - Creative cocktails using sake or shōchū as bases

This focus on authentic Japanese libations underscores the bar’s mission to replicate the sensory landscape of Osaka’s nightlife.

Atmosphere & Design

The interior features: - Wood-paneled walls with evocative Japanese artwork - Low stools arranged around a central counter - A striking glass-walled smoking booth (a nod to Osaka’s approach to accommodating smokers) - Natural wood tones and sparse furnishings creating a warm, unpretentious atmosphere - Open-plan layout fostering interaction between chefs, bartenders, and patrons

What Makes Saka Ba Special

Saka Ba stands out by delivering an authentic slice of Osaka to Tel Aviv. The combined expertise of Israeli restaurateur Assaf Menachem and Japanese chef Masaya brings genuine cultural exchange to the city. Unlike fusion concepts, Saka Ba’s commitment to traditional recipes, ingredient sourcing, and izakaya customs—such as communal seating and transparent smoking facilities—sets it apart from other Japanese-inspired venues.

The modest pricing, coupled with a spirited, laid-back ambiance, offers both locals and visitors a chance to experience Japan’s beloved after-work dining culture in the heart of Tel Aviv.

Location & Contact

Address: Zevulun 8, Florentin, Tel Aviv (Levinsky Market area)

Instagram: @saka_ba_tlv

“Saka Ba recreates the convivial atmosphere of an Osaka izakaya complete with minimalistic décor and menus priced mostly under 70 NIS per item.”

Whether you’re looking to unwind after work or experience authentic Japanese drinking culture, Saka Ba invites you to discover the spirit of Osaka in the heart of Tel Aviv’s Florentin neighborhood.