Ruben Big Kiryat Ata: Home of the Argentinian Burger You Need to Try

You’ve likely seen a Ruben or two in Israel, since it’s one of the country’s most popular chains. But when it comes to Ruben in Big Kiryat Ata, forget everything you know about the chain, because here everything is bigger and better.

Before the big guns even arrive, it’s worth starting the meal properly. The kitchen’s spicy “kickers” are the loudest opener on the menu, crispy with a flaky coating and given real heat from fresh shifka pepper salsa; it’s a standout bite. The Sicilian carpaccio is also excellent, loaded with sun-dried tomatoes, olives, and salsa which delivers an umami party directly to your tastebuds. 

The most unique starter by far is the foie gras, flame-grilled atop a toast, served with a Biscoff cream, sweet and salty all at once. For something a bit heavier, their signature cigars, rolled up asado beef, get spiced with traditional Moroccan spices and draped atop Har Bracha tahini, the best you can get. 

We went straight for the As Pampa Burger, made with beef flown in fresh from Argentina. Charred at the edges, juicy in the middle, and stacked into a burger you won’t find anywhere else. Dripping with truffle aioli, egg yolk from a fried sunny-side-up egg, and pickled red onions, this is a beast of a burger you cannot afford to miss. The meat skewers and kebabs are excellent, as are their tender chicken thighs. Especially when washed down with one of their cocktails, namely the Crazy Hayati, named in honor of Chay Tzfati, a fallen soldier. The drink is boozy, tropical, and packed with flavor. Pull up a chair outside in their incredible newly renovated space, order one, and let the evening slow down. 

If you managed to save room for dessert, you’re in luck. Because they serve an American-style soft serve ice cream in-house (and this is the only branch in the entire country doing it) that is so rich, you wouldn’t believe it’s not dairy. Ruben’s take on a pizookie is also something to behold, filled with nougat and served alongside their vanilla ice cream; it’s rich and the perfect way to end an indulgent meal. Which, it turns out, is exactly what many people are doing. The branch hosts small events and celebrations, and have a special outdoor seating area making it a natural pick for a low-key gathering rather than something requiring a formal private room.

The restaurant is kosher, and locally, it’s earned a reputation as the leading Ruben branch in the area, a status that shows in the crowd it pulls on a weeknight as easily as a weekend. This isn’t another burger chain for a late-night craving; this is the perfect place for a night you’re ready to go all out.

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📍 Ruben (Kiryat Ata)

• Location: Kiryat Ata
• Hashgacha: Kosher (Rabbanut Kiryat Ata)
• Social Media: Check out their menu on Instagram (@rubenbig_)

*Kashrut status is subject to change over time. We always recommend verifying current hashgacha certification directly with the venue before visiting.