Situated at the foothills of the Baha’i Gardens in Haifa, the Terrace Restaurant at Hotel Botanica offers diners panoramic views alongside a distinctive culinary experience. Open for just over a year and led by chef Zico Hijab, the restaurant merges regional flavors with unexpected twists, reflecting a menu described as “Between Wadi Nisnas and Tuscany.”
The outdoor terrace provides a notable vantage point overlooking the illuminated gardens by night, a setting many visitors find memorable. The menu predominantly features fish and dairy dishes, with many components crafted in-house.
A standout item is the cheese gnocchi with za’atar, pine nuts, and a za’atar crumble, priced at NIS 82. The gnocchi itself, light and delicately prepared, earned the affectionate nickname “gnocchi clouds.” Other notable dishes recommended by Michal, the shift manager, included a uniquely shaped arancini. Departing from the traditional round form, these square arancini stuffed with spinach and herbs are served atop a saffron cream and offered at NIS 59.
Starters included a fresh “Bustan” salad (NIS 75), which combines local Northern cucumbers, zucchini, arugula, grapes, sheep feta, almonds, and an arak vinaigrette. Chef Hijab explains that this dish draws inspiration from the traditional opening course in Arab Haifa restaurants, where grapes and arak are served together. Another appetizer, tuna kadayif (NIS 70), features red tuna tartare paired with a slightly spicy mayonnaise atop kadayif pancakes traditionally enjoyed at Ramadan iftar meals.
For mains, diners have the option of a fillet of sea bass served with truffle mashed potatoes (NIS 119). The generous portion includes crispy-skinned fish, though it proved too large to finish comfortably.
The dessert menu includes a pistachio cream-filled cannoli priced at NIS 56, providing a sweet conclusion to the meal. Cocktails such as “Spain to Egypt” (NIS 52), a mix of white wine, strawberries, and basil, and a smoked whisky offering set the tone during the start of the evening.
Hotel Botanica itself is part of the Fattal Limited Edition collection, drawing inspiration from the surrounding gardens, with extensive greenery integrated throughout its public areas. Guest rooms are spacious, commonly featuring large balconies with garden views. Facilities include a rooftop pool, a small gym, and thoughtfully curated art exhibits on each floor.
Breakfast service at the hotel has been highlighted for its breadth and quality. Offerings include a wide selection of artisan cheeses, fresh honeycomb, lox, as well as elevated versions of traditional Israeli breakfasts such as shakshuka, roasted vegetables, and ravioli. Desserts include kanafeh and warm vanilla soufflé, complemented by fresh juices like pomegranate and high-quality coffee.
The restaurant operates Sunday through Thursday from 1 p.m. to 11 p.m. and on Saturdays from 7 p.m. to 11 p.m., remaining closed on Fridays. It is certified kosher by Rabbanut Shoham.
Overall, the combination of innovative cuisine, striking views, and attentive service has positioned the Terrace Restaurant and Hotel Botanica as notable destinations for visitors in Haifa.