With a regal history of fine dining that dates to its opening 85 years ago, La Regence restaurant, Israel’s oldest, at the King David Hotel in Jerusalem remains a magnet for foodies. Chef David Biton has been in charge of the prestigious kitchen for the past eight years, and brings a dedication to local ingredients and kosher farm-to-table fare.

Specialties include Lamb Tongue with Smoked King Oyster Mushrooms, Tomato Leather Filled with Wild-Caught Fish Salad, Roasted Duck Confit with Black Garlic and Filet of Beef Financier. A wide selection of Israeli sparkling, white, red and dessert wines is available from the restaurant’s expansive wine cellar.

Don’t leave town without checking out some of the more exciting archaeological discoveries made recently, including the remains of an ancient mikvah (traditional Jewish ritual bath) and winepress uncovered during excavations in the Arnona neighborhood. The baths feature beautifully preserved inscriptions and wall paintings. Further afield in the ancient village of Huqoq, fabulous mosaics were found buried under the ruins of a synagogue. Of particular intrigue are depictions of elephants outfitted for war, along with images of cupids and dancing male figures believed to be associated with Dionysus, the god of wine.