On June 3, The Drisco Hotel will start welcoming guests in the heart of Tel Aviv’s vibrant American Colony neighbourhood. The 42-room luxury boutique property perfectly captures the essence of the hip, urban Israeli city and offers savvy travellers an upscale hospitality experience enhanced by the storied past of the building.
History
The Drisco Hotel pays tribute to the 1866 original grandeur of the property, when Evangelist pilgrims John and George Drisco set out to open the very first luxury hotel in the region, just outside the Jaffa wall. In 1870, Ernst Hardegg, a Templar hotelier, acquired the hotel and neighbouring property, renaming it The Jerusalem Hotel. Over the next century, the property became one of the most prestigious destinations in the region, attracting famed international guests such as Thomas Cook and Mark Twain. Following the deportation of the German Templars by the British mandate authorities in 1940, the building was left abandoned and neglected. A lengthy restoration process began in 2006 to reconstruct the landmark hotel, preserve its original architecture and revive the unique murals that recount its unique story. After more than a decade of intensive work led by Architect and Interior Designer Ari Shaltiel, The Drisco is ready to open its doors on June 3.
Design
Evoking a contemporary interpretation of the original Ottoman oriental design, The Drisco Hotel mixes innovative dcor elements, restored historic murals and 21st-century conveniences. Charming yet sophisticated, the property embodies the perfect blend of old-world luxury and modern-day comforts, a true reflection of the unique neighbourhood it inhabits.
Room & amenities
The Drisco Tel Aviv features 37 spacious rooms and 5 beautifully-appointed suites, all equipped with upscale amenities, state-of-the-art technology, and Carrara marble bathrooms. The bathrooms pay a contemporary homage to classic grand style bathrooms, boasting a large walk-in shower, oriental pattern ceramic tiles, elegant mirrors, ornate decorative wall lamps, imperial vintage sinks and vanities. Most rooms and suites are available with connecting and adjacent units to accommodate families or groups. Spacious balconies offer breathtaking views of Tel Aviv-Jaffa or the Mediterranean Sea while select rooms overlook the charming cobblestone streets. For the ultimate relaxing and intimate stay, guests can opt for the historic Villa Drisco, comprised of 5 rooms and the stunning Norton Suite, complete with a private terrace overlooking the hotel’s serene inner Piazza and Garden.
Dining
Guests and locals alike will enjoy the elevated dining options available at the new luxury property. The Drisco Bar, located in the lobby of the hotel, will be the ultimate gathering spot for visitors, business travellers and the neighbourhood’s creative community. The posh lobby space will offer a delightful collection of gastronomic small bites, innovative and classic cocktails, premium wines, and a gourmet selection of teas. At Zada, the hotel’s upscale restaurant, Chef Shahar Bitton will serve a contemporary take on Ottoman cuisine, drawing inspiration from meals and dishes traditionally reserved for the Sultan of the Ottoman Empire’s table. He will reinterpret the classic dishes and utilize sustainable, local ingredients, focusing on fresh fish and seafood, selected meats, and local vegetables. A gourmet selection of Kebab dishes, and pastries from the orient, regal dishes served on authentic ceramic plates, and a unique ambience of opulence will bring to life the royal feasts from this specific historical era.
Through the revitalisation of this unique landmark property, The Drisco Hotel is primed to transform Tel Aviv’s luxury travel experience and bring back to life an important part of the city’s history.
