Diners have spoken: the 2016 TripAdvisor Traveler’s Choice Award for Best Restaurant in the Middle East was awarded to Uri Buri, located in the ancient port city of Acre, Israel. Situated within the historic Efendi Hotel, Uri Buri sits at the northern edge of Haifa Bay and has become renowned for its fresh, seafood-focused menu and warm, intimate atmosphere.
Chef Uri Buri Jeremias leads the kitchen with a commitment to simple, flavorful preparations that emphasize the region’s abundant seafood and seasonal ingredients. The restaurant’s approach blends traditional Western Galilean flavors with contemporary techniques, showcasing local fish and produce sourced from nearby markets and fishermen. Dishes are crafted to highlight the natural taste of each ingredient rather than masking it, resulting in elegant, unfussy plates that reflect Acre’s maritime heritage.
Uri Buri’s intimate dining room and waterfront setting contribute to a memorable experience. Many patrons praise the restaurant not only for its food but for its attentive service and the sense of authenticity that comes from dining in a place steeped in history. The restaurant’s menu changes frequently to follow the catch of the day and the seasons, ensuring that meals are fresh and reflective of local availability. This commitment to seasonality and provenance has helped cement Uri Buri’s reputation among both local diners and international travelers.
The Efendi Hotel itself is a noteworthy companion to the restaurant. Comprising two restored ancient buildings that face the Mediterranean, the boutique property has 12 rooms and offers a quiet, historic retreat within Acre’s walled old city. The hotel’s restoration, supervised by the Israel Antiquities Authority, preserved architectural elements that speak to the site’s long past while introducing modern comforts for guests. With features such as a traditional hammam, a spa area, and a wine cellar that dates back to the Byzantine period, the Efendi Hotel provides an atmospheric setting that enhances the dining experience at Uri Buri.
TripAdvisor also recognized the Efendi Hotel in its 2016 Traveler’s Choice Awards, placing the property among the top small hotels in the Middle East. That ranking reflects the hotel’s successful blend of historical authenticity and contemporary hospitality, a combination that appeals to travelers seeking both comfort and a strong sense of place.
Acre itself adds to the appeal. The city’s layered history—from Crusader fortifications to Ottoman-era markets—creates a captivating backdrop for visitors. Strolling the narrow alleys of the old city, guests encounter a rich tapestry of cultural influences, architecture, and coastal vistas. This context complements the culinary experience at Uri Buri, where the flavors of the sea are served amid a setting that has witnessed centuries of trade, cuisine, and cultural exchange.
For diners seeking a meal that connects them to the local landscape, Uri Buri offers an experience rooted in fresh seafood, thoughtful preparation, and the ambiance of a historic port city. The recognition from TripAdvisor underscores both the restaurant’s culinary strengths and the broader appeal of Acre as a destination where history, hospitality, and gastronomy converge.
Whether visiting for a special occasion or a memorable meal while touring the region, guests at Uri Buri can expect dishes that celebrate the Mediterranean’s bounty, presented with care and respect for local culinary traditions. Combined with the Efendi Hotel’s intimate scale and historical charm, the restaurant is a compelling reason to explore Acre and its coastal surroundings.