Tel Aviv gets its own ‘Friends’ pop-up café and set
From Rachel’s trifle to Phoebe’s ‘Smelly Cat’, fans relive the sitcom’s best moments
A Friends-themed pop-up has opened in Tel Aviv, giving Israeli fans a chance to step into Central Perk, sample themed desserts and pose on the iconic orange sofa.
Launched this week at Azrieli Sarona Mall, the interactive experience recreated key scenes from the hit sitcom, complete with props, set replicas, and food inspired by memorable episodes.
The café/store hybrid marks Israel’s first official Friends pop-up, in collaboration with Warner Bros, GSS, Tnuva Alternative, and the Azrieli Group.
Guests at the launch were served kosher versions of Chandler’s Floor Cheesecake, Rachel’s infamous “Meat” trifle and Monica’s chocolate cake – all prepared under chef Nadav Bernstein for Biscotti Patisserie.
“My favourite was the little cheesecakes – like the one Chandler and Rachel ate on the floor,” said attendee Sivan Schor.
“I loved Monica’s cake – it was so creamy, and the brownies were great,” added Tel Aviv influencer Daniella Nir.
A woman dressed as Rachel Green in her wedding dress opened the event, a nod to the show’s first episode. Singer Frida followed with a live rendition of Phoebe’s ‘Smelly Cat’.
Visitors can also recreate the show’s intro at a replica fountain with colourful umbrellas or take selfies in themed corners built for Instagram.
“We brought show props like the famous couch to the pop-up, where you can sit with friends and form meaningful memories,” said Danna Azrieli, chairwoman of the Azrieli Group. “In the midst of our digital lives, that sense of connection between six people who show genuine love for one another resonates deeply.”
The pop-up is open through late October. Entry is free but reservations are required and can only be made online here.
Opening hours are Sunday to Thursday, 9:30am to 9:30pm, and Friday, 10am to 3pm.
Keep community journalism free.
Jewish News is free for everyone. No paywall. No barriers. Just trusted journalism for anyone who wants to stay connected to Jewish life in Britain.
If you value that, please support us.
From as little as £5 a month, you can help keep our journalism free and accessible to all.
Every day, we report on the issues that matter to our community. We celebrate achievements, support charities, challenge antisemitism and ensure Jewish voices are heard more widely.
From as little as £5 a month, you can help us continue to:
- Report on the stories shaping Jewish life in the UK and beyond
- Bring our community together through shared stories, events and campaigns
- Celebrate the people, culture and moments that define our community
- Support organisations doing vital work across Jewish Britain
You can make a one-off donation or become a regular supporter. Every contribution helps keep our journalism free, independent and accessible to all.
If everyone who values Jewish News gave a small amount, it would make a real difference to our future.
