There's nothing quite like wandering the streets, stumbling upon a wine bar you've never heard of. Especially one that offers wines you've yet to taste. After a day spent in Tel Aviv's Bezalel market, my journey led me to Coop Natur. Nestled beneath a new building in the market area, it beckoned me in with its cozy ambiance.
As the rain poured outside, entering a wine bar seemed like the perfect refuge. Especially when greeted by a friendly face at the entrance, inviting me in. Later, I discovered on Instagram that he was one of the owners.
"Shall I sit alone?" I pondered, leaving my bag with my laptop and umbrella aside. I contemplated calling a friend, but who ventures out in such weather? Some lessons are learned solo, like sitting alone at a bar. It might be common in Paris, but still a bit peculiar in Tel Aviv. Yet, there's something serene about focusing solely on the drink and contemplating. Coop Natur, located on Hamaccabi Street 2, near Tschernichovsky and the Bezalel compound, exclusively offers natural, organic, and biodynamic wines.
The founders, hailing from Saint Petersburg, envisioned embracing the emerging trend of natural wines in Israel. "We noticed a lack of bars selling only natural wines in Israel, and there isn't as much awareness here as in other places," shared Philip Timofeev, the establishment's sommelier and one of the owners. Alongside his partners (Savely Zaiko, Yevgeny Petrushansky, Dmitry Gorbunchikov, and Roman Berger), all culinary and wine connoisseurs, they aimed to introduce and promote the culture of natural wines, offering people a tasting experience they've never had before.
Their wine catalog is extensive, ranging from Loire Valley to Burgundy, Italy, Austria, and Spain. Many of which, I must admit, were unfamiliar to me, prompting me to revisit again and again.
Yet, Tel Aviv isn't Saint Petersburg. Timofeev considered this symbolically and carefully selected wines suitable for the Israeli palate, climate, and preferences. "There's a vast selection, but what matters most to me is that the wines are drinkable, light, interesting, and enjoyable," he emphasized.
Coop Natur isn't just a wine bar; it's a place to unwind. Chef Savely, one of the partners, who previously worked as a wine bar chef in Saint Petersburg, curates delicious, light dishes that complement the wines perfectly. It's also a wine shop offering deliveries within Tel Aviv. And if you're a vinyl enthusiast, feel free to bring your favorite record from home, play it softly in the background on their turntable, and immerse yourself in a bit of Europe.
Where: Hamaccabi Street 2, Tel AvivPhone: 058-633-5252