Named

Named
after Norman Lourie, a South African activist and
award-winning filmmaker, The Norman takes up residence on
a pretty side street off the vibrant Rothschild Boulevard. Lourie
was known for founding Israel’s first luxury hotel, Dolphin House,
in 1950, an esteemed lodging that became renowned world over as a
summer home to the rich and famous, from US presidents to Hollywood personalities
including Danny Kaye and Douglas Kirk. Frequently topping “best”
lists, The Norman easily upholds this legacy offering a noble hotel
experience that feels both contemporary and established, while
plenty of outside spaces bring the air of a countryside retreat.
Since opening in 2014, it has been the place to stay in Tel Aviv – though a spate of
hotel openings are snapping at its heels.

Rooms

Two restored 1920s buildings house 30 bespoke rooms and 20
palatial suites. All follow a delicate
palette elevated with flashes of colour; a teal sofa here,
burnt-orange armchair there – it’s modish mid-century meets modern
design. Bathrooms are beautiful with
preserved ceramic-tile flooring, equipped with plunging tubs or
spacious waterfall showers. Rooms are controlled by iPad, making it
easy to personalise your haven at the touch of a button.

What’s for breakfast?

A show of a breakfast buffet joins an a la carte menu featuring
shakshuka and eggs done in various ways. Whatever you choose, its
best eaten outside on the terrace with a mimosa in hand.

How about lunch and dinner?

The hotel is home to two internationally lauded restaurants;
Dinings and Alena. Fans of the Dinings in London will be familiar with the
fantastically novel menu from Masaki Sugisaki, in which
izakaya-style Japanese fare meets European cuisine. Favourites
include the sweet-chilli-marinated black cod and the signature
lobster tempura. During the summer months, the restaurant opens out
onto a lovely terrace with panoramic views over Tel Aviv.

Barak Aharoni is responsible for the dreamy Alena in which
European classics are given a Mediterranean twist, supported by a
top-notch wine offering from Shira Tsiddon (winner of Best Wine List in Israel 2017). The
Norman also has the largest champagne selection in Israel, though
we recommend sampling local grapes.

Amenities

One of the main attractions is the rooftop infinity pool which looks out
onto Tel Aviv’s high rises and is serviced by an attended bar. If
you aren’t an easy relaxer, there’s also a fully-equipped gym,
while spa bunnies will enjoy extensive list of treatments at the
wellness centre. Personal training, makeup and hair, yoga classes
and an abundance of massages are just a few of the services
available.

Within a short walk I can find…

The neighbourhood is one of the most attractive in Tel Aviv,
with a distinctly European feel; getting involved in the chic café
culture with plenty of people watching is order of the day. From
The Norman you can walk to the beach, shopping streets and a
multitude of restaurants and bars.

Things I should know…

Be sure to explore the hotel – you’ll stumble across hidden
terraces and excellent sunning spots, as well as some interesting
Israeli art. Don’t miss the serene citrus garden located between
the two main buildings, offering a welcome sense of seclusion in
the heart of the capital.