While living in Tel Aviv this summer I've already learned so much about myself, for example my undeniable love for hummus. Hummus is proof that some of the best tasting things in life are the simplest to make. The literal meaning of of the word is "chickpeas" and the ingredients are simple: mashed chickpeas, blended with tahini, olive oil, garlic and lemon juice. It is usually topped off with spices and herbs such as paprika, coriander or parsley leaves. Every Israeli has their version of "the best" hummus but these are my 2 must-try restaurants for hummus when visiting Israel.
Abu Gosh Restaurant in Abu Ghosh:
In the predominately Arab town of Abu Ghosh, hummus is king. Located in the scenic hills west of Jerusalem, this town is known for its world-class hummus, the creamy chickpea paste that's central to Mideast cuisine. Abu Ghosh has plenty of restaurants but the most famous one is the Abu Ghosh Restaurant, opened in 1993 by Jaodat Ibrahim. Why?- because Ibrahim is verified by a Guinness Book of World Records for preparing enough hummus to fill a large satellite dish, weighing almost 9,000 pounds.
We got the baba ghanoush, pine nut hummus, meat hummus and chicken schnitzel. All the dishes definitely lived up to its expectations.
Address: Kvish Ha Shalom 65, אבו גוש
Phone: 02-533-2019
Abu-Hasan in Jaffa:
This place is undoubtedly the best hummus in Jaffa. It is a family-owned restaurant that has been in business for 40 years now but their secret recipe has not changed one bit over the years with the perfectly measured garlic, olive oil and lemon making the texture and taste flawless. Make sure you arrive for an early lunch (or breakfast), because once the hummus is finished the place usually closes down!
3 Locations:
1 Dolphin St. (on the hill),
14 Shivtai Israel St. (the second branch)
18 Shivtai Israel St (a third branch which is open all day)
Phone: (03) 682-0387
