So I actually googled “why am I craving hummus?” and apparently it is a thing -  a good thing. Hummus has iron, protein and fiber and can help lower cholesterol, among other things. My hummus craving has really been stoked by the arrival of Dizengoff, a hummus-focused, mostly take-out (but there is some indoor and outdoor seating) place on 1636 Sansom St in Philly owned by Star Chef Michael Solomonov (Of Zahav, Goldies and Abe Fishers, among others).

Dizengoff has added some delicious treats to the menu: Chicken Schnitzel, Shawarma-spiced Lamb, Shakshuka, Israeli Breakfast, etc. The space has also expanded (think large hummusiya).

Opened in 2014 and modeled after the hummusiyas (hummus stalls) in Israel the space offers, hummus - really good hummus with, if you like, rotating seasonal toppings of seasoned meats or veggies. I always go for the classic hummus topped off with tahini, oil and cumin. With the generous serving of hummus you also get a little side salad of pickled beets or cucumber and pickles. But the best part is the warm (and best I’ve tasted) pita. I usually just eat it there, as the warm bread dipped into the hummus is... so good! Dizengoff also has other delicious treats: Chicken Schnitzel, Shawarma-spiced Lamb, Shakshuka, Israeli Breakfast, etc. Brunch on the weekends! And dinner: try some Za’atar Roast Chicken and Persian Beef and Celery Stew.

Sometimes, biking home from work or the gym, I’ll get the Dizengoff craving and have to make a hummus pit stop. And, because it’s also good for me, I’m always glad I did. Enjoy a frozen mint lemonade or local beer with your meal.