Tel Aviv, Israel
The Setai Tel Aviv
Ottoman Idyll
What it is
A new 120-room modernist reprieve with an infinity pool, all set within a former fortress on the Mediterranean.
What it isn't
Cold. Expect verdant courtyards where olive and citrus trees flourish and a Turkish hammam that peeps out on the city skyline.
What we think
Voluntarily checking into jail is rare. But this hotel—housed in a building that was a onetime Ottoman-era prison—will have you beelining there and angling to stay just as long as you possibly can. The building is now among the finest in Tel Aviv, thanks to a more than two decade restoration in partnership with the Israel Antiques Authority that rooted out ancient treasure (12th-century artifacts; the original seal of the 34th Sultan of the Ottamn Empire, now hung over the hotel’s entrance). Plush Turkish rugs and leather touches cozy up the sleek guest rooms, fitted with rainfall showers and sculptural lighting fixtures, and thoughtful perks (loaner beach bags and sun hats) within the age-old stone walls.
You're here because
The Setai’s spa has perfected the rarefied art of R&R. Among the curated treatment options? A jasmine blossom and shea butter body and face massage. Ommmm.
The Moment
When you see locals beelining for a drink at The Kishle Bar—hewn of Brazilian blue marble off the lobby—you follow suit. Sipping your artisanal cocktail on a tufted leather Chesterfield sofa beneath the glimmering glow of rain drop chandelier, you raise a glass: to freedom.
Restaurants & Bars
Jaya Chef Restaurant - Israeli cuisine.
Executive Lounge - Stylish and serene space for those seeking a peaceful respite.
The Setai Tel Aviv Bar - Serving hand-crafted cocktails and fine international cuisine.
Location
The Setai Tel Aviv is perched within the square abutting the Jaffa Clock Tower, built of limestone in 1903 with a prime overlook on the Mediterranean Sea. Among the nearby must-sees: the rooftop terrace at the Ilana Goor Museum (founded by the female artist herself) and Container, an eatery housed in a revamped boat hangar on the water (order the beetroot carpaccio and purple calamari with orange butter).