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Charlie, barman and part-owner at Heder 140, brings his own version of hipster funk to north Tel Aviv.

Think of the north Tel Aviv bar scene and you would be right to imagine laid back neighborhood joints, swanky wine bars and mainstream dance clubs. All that, however, may be about to change. Relative newcomer to northern Ben Yehuda Street, Heder 140, is trying to bring a taste of hipster life to the otherwise “mainstream” neighborhood.

Entering the small dimly lit space, the eclectic mix of artwork on the wall sends you back to the 90s, with a world of memorabilia complete with bright fluorescent colors and icons of the time.

Heder 140 is not your average bar. Though it’s a fish out of water when compared with its surroundings, it’s still unique when compared with other similar establishments in the city. For those that miss their fix of nostalgia, this intimate bar, complete with lava lamps, is worth checking out.

There’s enough weird and wonderful stuff to look at as well as interesting people to stare at while sitting at the bar waiting for the barman to show.

Enter barman and part-owner Charlie, with his infectious smile and loveable laid back personality. Music is this man’s life, and his passion to bring his love of music to the people shows. Embracing the retro hipster vibe that Heder 140 exudes, Charlie looks the part and fits right in with the other trendy bar staff and customers.

Charlie mixes up some of his favorite cocktails, most of them anise-based, while making sure the music is up to scratch and everyone is having a good time. Those looking for to dance to Mizrahi music or groove to the latest Rhianna hit should stay at home.

How long have you been bartending?

Three years.

How did you get into it?

I really enjoyed the nightlife scene, then I did a barman course and I gradually got more into it.

Who would be your dream customer?

Jonny Depp.

Why?

I really like him and I think he’d like the music here and the general good vibes. I mean I’m not certain he would be into but I would really hope he was.

What drink would you serve him? Why?

Jack Daniels. Because he’s American.

What’s your favorite drink to serve?

I really like cocktails based on Arak. Arak is actually the main drink that we have here at the bar. We specialize in drinks with anise. I really like to play with these flavors and make up cocktails with them. We have anise from all over the world.

What’s your least favorite drink to serve?

I don’t like vodka. And I don’t really like Red Bull. So I guess I would say vodka Red Bull is my least favorite.

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