The Drisco; a Boutique transformation of an Ottoman heritage in Tel Aviv

Share

There are many boutique hotels in Tel Aviv. However, The Drisco rests in an emblem of heritage and historic riches of Israel. This newly opened hotel has replenished a centuries-old legacy. Located just outside the walls of Jaffa, the boutique hotel is in the developing American Colony neighborhood. With loads of luxury features and an age-old history, The Drisco have become one of the leading boutique hotels in the world.

Share

The entrance of the Hotel is restored from the old-fashioned structure as well as design motives.

The hotel’s history involves the early American and German settlers in Israel. Interestingly, the Ottoman empire is also entangled closely with its development. Back in 1866, 40 of American families moved to Palestine following a self-proclaimed prophet from Maine. Among them were the two brothers, John and George Drisco. These two brothers started building a hotel just outside Jaffa’s walls. However, they could not complete building the hotel running out of funds.

Share

The hotel still has the design motives dating back to centuries years old arts.

Thus, the American brothers sold the half-developed hotel to Ernst Hardegg, a German, who was a Templar hotelier. The latter completed the hotel and named it Jerusalem Hotel. Back then, the hotel served as most preferred stop over for travelers going to Palestine through Jaffa Port. It grew as the most luxurious hotels in the world between 1870 and 1840. Among its reputed travelers were Thomas Cook and Mark Twain. However, the hotel turned as a dormant building by 1960, after the British rule and the post War of Independence period. Until 2006, the place was under rubbles.

Share

Guests enjoy the view of blue Mediterranean from luxury rooms of The Drisco.

Latest restoration of the hotel started in 2006. Per Avi Zak, the owner and managing partner, they “realized that this is a property that is like a diamond, and it has to be revived.” Today, the hotel has 42 boutique hotels with a mixed couture of European and Turkish elements. The building is originally made of limestone, featuring stone arches, wrought-iron as well as ornamented detailing. The owners have preserved the old staircases of the building along with restoring the entrance walls, lobby as well as the cellar.

Share

The Menu at The Drisco bears are close resemblance to items for the Sultanate of Ottoman.

The new additional luxury to this boutique hotel are the Mark Twain inspired detailing, Turkish carpet, Carrara marble bathrooms. The wood balconies present a soulful view of the Mediterranean Sea. There also a historic Villa standing next to the primary property. This Drisco Villa has five rooms and a Norton Suite. The Bar is located in the lobby area. The restaurant in this hotel is under chef Shahar Bitton. The food served has a close resemblance to the historic cuisines during Ottoman empire.