7.8 / 10 (based on 155 reviews)
Nimrod, a disenfranchised former high-tech worker, desperate to provide for his family and restore his self-esteem, is offered a second chance as a lowly prep cook at a famous restaurant, run by charismatic and tempestuous chef/owner Dori, who battles to stay relevant in the ultra-competitive culinary world. Finding his place and learning to enjoy the microcosm of the upscale kitchen, Nimrod strikes up a friendship with a new talented chef, Sara, which throws his home and work life into a tailspin.
Genre: Drama
Main Cast: Guri Alfi, Gal Toren, Rotem Sela, Yael Elkana
Creators: Orit Dabush, Erez Kav-El
Directors:
Writers:
2 seasons, 10 episodes, 45-minute runtime
Shows Most Like HaTabach (2020)
Chazarot (2020)
8.8 / 10 (based on 574 reviews)
Two theater writers are forced to work together just when they’re going through a breakup in their relationship. They are joined by two egotistical TV stars.
Genre: Comedy, Romance
Main Cast: Noa Koler, Erez Drigues, Agam Rudberg, Itay Turgeman
Creators: Assaf Amir, Erez Drigues, Noa Koler
Directors:
Writers:
1 season, 10 episodes, 33.0-minute runtime
HaMefakedet (2021)
8.1 / 10 (based on 327 reviews)
Noa, an officer lacking interpersonal abilities, commands orientation training for the first time and has to deal with particularly difficult soldiers, a staff that does not know what to make of her and an intolerant system
Genre: Comedy, Drama
Main Cast: Alona Sa’ar, Maya Landsman, Noa Astanjelove, Carmel Bin
Creators: Nir Berger, Atara Frish
Directors:
Writers:
1 season, 10 episodes, 30.0-minute runtime
Kupa Rashit (2018)
8.7 / 10 (based on 559 reviews)
A comic series telling the tale of a failing supermarket in a backwards town and following the daily events that take place within the supermarket.
Genre: Comedy
Main Cast: Keren Mor, Dov Navon, Noa Koler, Amir Shurush
Creators: Nadav Frishman, Yaniv Zohar
Directors:
Writers:
3 seasons, 60 episodes, 25.0-minute runtime
Manayek (2020)
8.2 / 10 (based on 877 reviews)
Izzy Bachar, a police internal affairs investigator, discovers just before retirement that his long time friend Barak, a senior police officer, is accused of being corrupt. Life as he knows it breaks into pieces.
Genre: Drama
Main Cast: Shalom Assayag, Amos Tamam, Maya Dagan, Liraz Chamami
Creators: Roy Iddan
Directors:
Writers:
1 season, 10 episodes, 45.0-minute runtime
HaYehudim Baim (2014)
8.3 / 10 (based on 368 reviews)
Satire sketches, examining the history of the Jewish people since biblical times.
Genre: Comedy, History
Main Cast: Moni Moshonov, Yael Sharoni, Yaniv Biton, Ido Mosseri
Creators: Assaf Beiser, Yoav Gross, Natalie Marcus
Directors:
Writers:
4 seasons, 57 episodes, 24.0-minute runtime
Shababnikim (2017)
8.2 / 10 (based on 394 reviews)
4 Yeshiva students who don’t entirely fit in to their own world, although they try, find themselves at odds with their rabbi, their parents, and their matchmaker.
Genre: Comedy, Drama
Main Cast: Daniel Gad, Ori Laizerouvich, Omer Perelman Striks, Israel Atias
Creators: Eliran Malka, Daniel Paran
Directors:
Writers:
2 seasons, 16 episodes, 30.0-minute runtime
HaShotrim (2021)
7.5 / 10 (based on 242 reviews)
From the director of the award-winning Israeli thriller Fauda comes Line in the Sand, a cautionary tale of obsession, sacrifice and how one detective’s quest for justice shifts his moral compass to the extent that he loses himself.
Genre: Crime, Drama
Main Cast: Tsahi Halevi, Danny Steg, Maor Schwitzer, Daniel Gad
Creators: Rotem Shamir, Yuval Yefet
Directors:
Writers:
1 season, 8 episodes, 50.0-minute runtime
Zaguri Imperia (2014)
8 / 10 (based on 536 reviews)
A soldier named Aviel returns to his family because of his grandfather’s death, after ten years of not speaking to them.
Genre: Comedy, Drama, Mystery
Main Cast: Moshe Ivgy, Oz Zehavi, Chen Amsalem, Israel Atias
Creators: Maor Zaguri
Directors:
Writers:
2 seasons, 52 episodes, 40.0-minute runtime
PMTA (2018)
8.7 / 10 (based on 100 reviews)
Marcel Ben David is a former police officer that joins PMTA and found herself in the middle of an entangled corruption story.
Genre: Crime, Drama
Main Cast: Chen Amsalem, Zohar Strauss, Sara von Schwarze, Ori Pfeffer
Creators: Noa Ben-Artzi, Ester Namdar, Oded Lotan
Directors:
Writers:
2 seasons, 18 episodes, 40.0-minute runtime
Sh’at Neila (2020)
7.6 / 10 (based on 4936 reviews)
On October 6th 1973, the Middle East was shaken by the biggest war it had ever seen. A war that should have been the last one, and that forever changed the region.
Genre: Drama, War
Main Cast: Avraham Aviv Alush, Lior Ashkenazi, Shahar Tavoch, Imri Biton
Creators: Daniel Amsel, Amit Cohen, Ron Leshem
Directors:
Writers:
1 season, 10 episodes, 45.0-minute runtime
Introduction
In a world teeming with cooking shows, from the high-stakes drama of “Hell’s Kitchen” to the heartwarming journeys on “The Great British Bake Off,” there’s one that stands out by not trying too hard to stand out. It’s “HaTabach,” an Israeli cooking show that debuted in 2020. Unlike its louder counterparts, “HaTabach” brings something different to the table, focusing on simplicity, authenticity, and the sheer joy of cooking. Let’s peel back the layers of this unique show and see what makes it a must-watch.
The Premise
At its core, “HaTabach” follows a familiar format – a cooking competition where chefs battle it out to impress judges with their culinary skills. However, it’s the nuances that set it apart. The show emphasizes traditional Israeli cuisine, showcasing dishes that range from street food staples like falafel and shawarma to intricate dishes that would be at home in any fine dining establishment. It’s not just about the food; it’s a celebration of culture, history, and the stories behind the recipes.
The Cast
A cooking show is only as good as its cast, and “HaTabach” doesn’t disappoint. The judges bring a mix of expertise, humor, and genuine warmth to the table. They’re not there to intimidate; they’re there to guide, critique, and sometimes even learn alongside the contestants. Speaking of the contestants, they’re a diverse bunch, from professional chefs to passionate amateurs, each bringing their own flavor to the competition. It’s this diversity that adds an extra layer of richness to the show, making each episode unpredictable and engaging.
Why It Stands Out
In a sea of cooking shows, you might wonder what makes “HaTabach” worth your time. Here are a few reasons:
Focus on Tradition: While many cooking shows emphasize innovation and modernity, “HaTabach” pays homage to the roots of Israeli cuisine. It’s a refreshing change that educates viewers about the history and cultural significance of the dishes being prepared.
Simplicity: This show proves that you don’t need over-the-top drama to be compelling. The straightforward format, focused on cooking and the stories behind the dishes, is a breath of fresh air.
Authenticity: There’s a genuine feel to “HaTabach” that’s often missing in more polished, high-stakes cooking competitions. It feels like you’re in the kitchen with friends, not just watching a show.
Memorable Moments
Every good show has moments that stick with you, and “HaTabach” has its fair share. There’s the episode where a contestant, inspired by his grandmother’s recipes, brought the judges to tears with a simple, yet perfectly executed, dish. Then there’s the time when a professional chef decided to step out of their comfort zone, embracing a street food challenge with enthusiasm and creativity, ultimately winning the judges’ hearts. These moments are a testament to the show’s ability to blend the personal with the professional, creating a viewing experience that’s both entertaining and heartwarming.
The Impact
You might think a cooking show can’t have much of an impact beyond entertainment, but “HaTabach” proves otherwise. It’s become a platform for showcasing the diversity of Israeli cuisine, breaking down stereotypes and introducing viewers to dishes they might never have encountered otherwise. It’s also sparked a renewed interest in traditional cooking methods and ingredients, with viewers taking to social media to share their attempts at recreating dishes from the show.
Cultural Significance
“HaTabach” does more than just entertain; it educates. Through its focus on Israeli cuisine, the show offers insights into the country’s rich cultural tapestry. Food is a universal language, and “HaTabach” uses it to tell stories of heritage, migration, and the blending of cultures. This aspect elevates the show from a simple cooking competition to a meaningful exploration of identity and tradition.
Why You Should Watch
If you’re a fan of cooking shows but are looking for something that feels more genuine and less manufactured, “HaTabach” is worth checking out. It’s a show that celebrates the joy of cooking, the importance of tradition, and the stories that food can tell. Whether you’re a culinary expert or someone who can barely boil water, there’s something in “HaTabach” for you. It’s a reminder that, at its heart, cooking is about more than just food; it’s about community, culture, and connection.
Conclusion
“HaTabach” might not have the flashiness of its international counterparts, but it doesn’t need it. Through its focus on traditional Israeli cuisine, its genuine cast, and its simple yet engaging format, the show offers a unique viewing experience. It’s a celebration of food, culture, and the stories that bind us. So, if you’re looking for a cooking show with heart, authenticity, and a dash of tradition, “HaTabach” is the perfect addition to your watchlist.