DistantNews
Support us
🇮🇱 Israel /Health & Science

The Drisco at 160: Inside Tel Aviv’s restored hidden gem of old-world hospitality - review

From Jerusalem Post · () English

Summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

News Sources not specified Context piece
  • The Drisco Hotel in Tel Aviv's Jaffa is celebrating its 160th anniversary, marking a significant milestone in Israeli hospitality.
  • Originally established in 1866 as Le Grand Hotel by American pilgrims, it predates the founding of Tel Aviv itself.
  • The hotel offers a unique experience of "old-world hospitality" contrasting with the surrounding urban environment, and has hosted notable figures like Mark Twain.

The Drisco Hotel, nestled in the historic American-German Colony of Jaffa, is celebrating its 160th anniversary, offering a remarkable glimpse into old-world hospitality. Stepping into the hotel, with its vintage décor, classic music, and slower pace, transports visitors back in time, providing a tranquil contrast to the bustling city of Tel Aviv.

It’s totally possible to think that you’ve been transported back 100 years or so.

— ReviewerDescribing the immersive old-world atmosphere of the Drisco Hotel.

Established in 1866 by brothers George and John Drisco, who were part of a group of pilgrims from Maine, the hotel predates the founding of Tel Aviv by decades. Initially named Le Grand Hotel, the stone-built structure was designed to accommodate pilgrims and European nobility visiting the Holy Land. Its location on Auerbach Street, within the meticulously kept colony, stands in stark juxtaposition to the grimy, graffiti-covered streets of the surrounding area, creating an oasis of order and grace.

Notably, the hotel's history includes a stay by author Samuel Clemens, better known as Mark Twain. In 1867, Twain resided at the hotel and drew inspiration for his famous travelogue, "Innocents Abroad." While Twain's published account described the community somewhat critically, the Drisco brothers persevered. The inn was later sold and expanded, eventually becoming the foundation for the historic hotel that exists today.

The pace is slower, the colors more vivid, the tastes are more intense. That’s the vibe the Drisco exudes and what makes it one of the most enjoyable hotel experiences in Tel Aviv.

— ReviewerCapturing the unique sensory experience offered by the Drisco Hotel.

The hotel's George & John restaurant is highlighted as a particular treasure, embodying the establishment's commitment to preserving a distinct atmosphere. The Drisco Hotel's longevity and its dedication to maintaining an authentic experience make it a unique and cherished landmark in Israeli hospitality, embodying the story of the colony and the early days of tourism in the region.

The historic property embodies the story of the colony and the origins of tourism in the Land of Israel.

— ReviewerHighlighting the hotel's significance in the context of local history and tourism.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by Jerusalem Post. Summarized and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.

More Stories

From Our Blog