Florentin

Florentin is one of Tel Aviv's neighborhoods. Established in 1927 by Zionist Jews from Greece, Turkey and other Balkan countries, it was mainly inhabited by craftsmen. This influenced the architecture of the neighborhood: the buildings were mostly two stories high, on the top floor lived the family and on the ground floor were workshops, such as upholstery and carpentry.
The neighborhood went through many changes over the last century and in recent years the place has gained its charm back thanks to a vast renovation plan initiated by the Tel Aviv municipality. Many young people prefer to live in this neighborhood because of its special atmosphere.
Here are our favorite places in Florentin:
"Casco" - An institution which deserves special attention. Casco is a Dutch word meaning "unidentified space". It's an urban laboratory - art, food and coffee, a place where young local artists and designers exhibit their prospective of the city. Notice the graffiti on the walls and the beautiful yard furnished in a creative and innovative style. Each week live music and theater performances take place. The food served is mainly Dutch style.
Tel: 03-5182144, at 3a Florentine St. Closed on Fridays & Saturdays.

Street Gallery named "Art Look Through" a place where artists exhibit their artwork under a huge glass wall. It is located opposite a bar called "10 Florentin".

A culinary evidence to the glorious Balkan past of this neighborhood is found on 25 Florentin St., with its delicious pastry.

Cordovero St. is a place where you can see the original houses, now renovated, with their wooden shutters in delightful colors. The trees on this street are old amongst them citrus trees.

Yedidya Frenkel St. has become home to new designed spaces where antiques, carpets, home decor and accessories are sold.

On Vital St. are some special places to hang out which have become the locals' favorites: one of them is an English style bar called "Sachemo" where you can find different kinds of whisky.

If you are a history fan don't miss out on the Lechi Museum Beit Yair, located in the actual hiding place of Yair Stern - Lechi's adored leader. This is the place where he was assassinated in 1942 by British policemen. You can see the room where he was murdered including the actual cupboard where Yair hid in.
The museum is on 8 Stern St. Open daily (except Saturdays) and Fridays for organized groups.

There are also performances of black music and jazz alongside an open stage for young musicians. Be sure to check in the local paper for updated events.