The Visionary Behind It All – Asaf Lees (47)
With more than two decades of influence in Israel’s hospitality scene, Asaf Lees has shaped the very definition of luxury dining in Tel Aviv. Coming from a family deeply embedded in the hotel industry, Asaf’s natural affinity for hospitality, paired with his creative, unorthodox mindset, positioned him as a leader in redefining what fine dining could be.
A trailblazer in projects like Herbert Samuel and Toto, Asaf championed a new kind of upscale experience – one that combined meticulous culinary execution with an approachable, stylish environment. His instinct for conceptual innovation eventually led him to co-found Baraka House with entrepreneur Omri Amar, a hospitality group known for pushing boundaries. With a bold imagination and the drive to bring ideas to life, Asaf continues to pioneer original, complete, and meaningful guest experiences that leave a lasting impression.
A trailblazer in projects like Herbert Samuel and Toto, Asaf championed a new kind of upscale experience – one that combined meticulous culinary execution with an approachable, stylish environment. His instinct for conceptual innovation eventually led him to co-found Baraka House with entrepreneur Omri Amar, a hospitality group known for pushing boundaries. With a bold imagination and the drive to bring ideas to life, Asaf continues to pioneer original, complete, and meaningful guest experiences that leave a lasting impression.
Chef Gil Dahan (32) – Cooking as a Language
At just 32, Chef Gil Dahan has carved out a distinctive place in Israel’s culinary landscape. His philosophy is simple yet profound: cooking is how he tells stories. Having trained in some of the country’s top kitchens – including Kitchen Market, Weiss, and Cena – Gil brings with him a deep respect for raw ingredients and a commitment to using them thoughtfully and sustainably.
He approaches food with both precision and curiosity, crafting dishes that balance traditional flavors with contemporary methods. His culinary ethos was shaped by a realization he had early on: “Not everything Israeli is local, and not everything local is Israeli.” This idea has driven his exploration of global ingredients interpreted through a local, personal lens.
Whether he’s building a refined tasting menu or reimagining family recipes, like his signature Chorizo Calamari inspired by his grandmother’s hamusta broth, Gil’s work reflects a fusion of heritage and modern artistry.
He approaches food with both precision and curiosity, crafting dishes that balance traditional flavors with contemporary methods. His culinary ethos was shaped by a realization he had early on: “Not everything Israeli is local, and not everything local is Israeli.” This idea has driven his exploration of global ingredients interpreted through a local, personal lens.
Whether he’s building a refined tasting menu or reimagining family recipes, like his signature Chorizo Calamari inspired by his grandmother’s hamusta broth, Gil’s work reflects a fusion of heritage and modern artistry.
Tasting Menu – Personalized Culinary Experience
The Mashya tasting menu is more than a meal – it’s an evolving narrative curated for each guest. Chef Gil Dahan works closely with premium suppliers on a daily basis to ensure access to the freshest, most exceptional ingredients. Each dish is an expression of place, memory, and inspiration, reflecting a blend of local flavors and refined technique.
The menu shifts weekly based on what’s in season and at its best. Whether it's a story about a specific supplier, a regional ingredient, or a traditional recipe reimagined, every plate is part of a bigger experience. Diners with dietary restrictions are encouraged to let us know in advance – we’re happy to personalize the menu so that every guest enjoys a truly unforgettable journey.
The menu shifts weekly based on what’s in season and at its best. Whether it's a story about a specific supplier, a regional ingredient, or a traditional recipe reimagined, every plate is part of a bigger experience. Diners with dietary restrictions are encouraged to let us know in advance – we’re happy to personalize the menu so that every guest enjoys a truly unforgettable journey.
