Boutique hotel enthusiasts have a fresh reason to visit Tel Aviv: the city’s first true boutique hotel has opened its doors. Part of the MGallery Hotel Collection, Elkonin Tel Aviv is located in the fashionable, art-focused Neve Tzedek neighborhood — a historic quarter that predates the modern city.
© Amit Geron
Housed in a historic building from 1913, the hotel offers 42 rooms and two suites that evoke a peaceful, retreat-like atmosphere. Originally built for Malka and Menachem Elkonin, the structure blends Eclecticism with Art Deco details and quickly became a cultural hub, attracting notable figures from literature, art and politics over the years, including Albert Einstein. The property also hosted political leaders and royalty, such as King Abdullah of Jordan and Israel’s first prime minister, David Ben-Gurion.
© Sivan Askayo
Acquired in 2004 by Dominique Romano, the building underwent a sensitive renovation that introduced an avant-garde French sensibility while honoring the original architectural features. Interiors were crafted by Adriana Schor of ICONIQUE studio, resulting in elegant European-inspired spaces that balance historical character with modern comfort.
Design details include herringbone wood floors, rattan accents, custom Italian terrazzo and preserved original ceramic tiles. Bathrooms are supplied with Clarins amenities, enhancing the sense of a refined boutique stay.
The hotel also hosts Tel Aviv’s first Clarins spa, featuring five tranquil treatment rooms finished in soothing beige and white tones. Additional wellness areas include a relaxation lounge and a Turkish-style hammam. Signature treatments, including the Elkonin Signature Treatment, are designed to be restorative and calming.
© Sivan Askayo
Guest amenities include a rooftop pool and bar with expansive views of the city and Mediterranean, a contemporary fitness center, flexible meeting and event spaces, and an outdoor terrace featuring a distinctive Love Wall by artist James Goldcrown. Dining is anchored by L’Epoque at Elkonin by Robuchon, the first Robuchon International restaurant in Israel, serving breakfast, lunch, dinner and afternoon tea in a refined setting.