The Drisco Hotel Review

Overview: What is The Drisco Hotel?

The Drisco is a heritage-landmark 5-star hotel in the American-German Colony district of Tel Aviv. The building was constructed in 1866 by the Drisco brothers, later operated as the Hardegg Jerusalem Hotel, and hosted Mark Twain before closing in 1940. A 12-year restoration led by architect Ari Shaltiel reopened the property in 2018. The Drisco is a member of Relais and Chateaux and Leading Hotels of the World.

Where is The Drisco Hotel? Location and access

Neve Tzedek, between Jaffa and central Tel Aviv, within walking distance of Alma Beach, the old Tel Aviv train station complex (HaTachana), Florentin, and the Flea Market of Jaffa. Ben Gurion International Airport is 20 minutes by car.

Nearby landmarks

• Neve Tzedek
• Jaffa Flea Market
• HaTachana (old train station)
• Alma Beach
• Rothschild Boulevard
• Jaffa Clock Tower

Rooms at The Drisco Hotel

42 rooms and suites across the original building and adjacent Villa Drisco. Hand-painted murals, Ottoman Empire-inspired doorways, Egyptian cotton bedding, and Carrara marble bathrooms. Suites feature grand living rooms, French doors onto private terraces, and complimentary minibar with alcohol.

Service and staff

Relais and Chateaux service standards. Complimentary private tours tell the story of the Drisco brothers, Mark Twain, and the German Templer community that built much of the surrounding neighborhood.

Amenities at The Drisco Hotel

Rooftop overlooking the Mediterranean, Daria Spa, Mark Twain salon, garden, Techno Gym. Small private event spaces. No pool, which is the main omission relative to Tel Aviv beachfront alternatives.

Full amenity list

• George and John restaurant
• Drisco Bar
• Rooftop (Mediterranean views)
• Daria Spa
• Techno Gym
• Private garden
• Complimentary historical tour

Food and drink

George and John, led by Head Chef Tomer Tal, was named Israel's best restaurant by 50 Best MENA. The food is modern Israeli with Mediterranean influences, served in a dining room carved out of the original building's ground floor. The Drisco Bar handles cocktails.

Design and architecture

Art Deco and Ottoman design references thread through the restored building. The hand-painted murals and original painted staircase are preserved. Ari Shaltiel's 12-year restoration balanced period authenticity with modern comfort.

Fun facts about The Drisco Hotel

• The building was constructed in 1866 by the Drisco brothers as one of the first Western-style hotels in the region.
• Mark Twain stayed at the Hardegg Jerusalem Hotel, as the property was then known.
• The restoration took 12 years and was led by architect Ari Shaltiel.
• George and John was named the best restaurant in Israel by 50 Best MENA.
• The hotel is a member of both Relais and Chateaux and Leading Hotels of the World.