With all that's going down in the United States right now, the opening of the restaurant 'Merica seems to be the closest thing to good news with red, white and blue on it. Mind you, as an American transplant, whenever I hear of a new American-themed restaurant I sort of roll my eyes and remember years ago when I visited Israel and at an 'american' baguette filled with noodles. What WAS that!?

I have good news my skeptical friends. The team from such places as Grinberg and Greco in Ramat Aviv, did their research. After I did my extensive research (gotta do whatcha gotta do), I can safely say that in case you missed your fix of fried chicken and waffles (don't we all?), your prayers have been answered. Merica, housed are the ZOA on Ibn Gvirol Street, has the American-themed menu, a Mexican menu, coffee stand and Johnson Bar for live music.

Fried foods are best (fried cornichons, french fries with shaved cheese and truffle dipping sauce, and fried chicken with buffalo wing sauce), cocktails come in shareable shakers, and from what I tasted of the Mexican menu (meh quesadillas), I would actually stick with other alternatives. Our waiter sold us big time on the crack pie, but when after a few minutes of deliberation it was all out. Sad. I will come back for it. We went with the cornflake ice cream and NY cheesecake.

Ibn Gvirol 26, open lunch and dinner throughout the week

http://americatelaviv.co.il/

03-6884884