A Guide to Philadelphia's Best Israeli Street Food

A Taste of Tel Aviv: A Guide to Philadelphia's Best Israeli Street Food

Philadelphia's culinary landscape is a global tapestry, and its Israeli and Middle Eastern street food offerings are some of the most vibrant and delicious threads. Thanks in large part to the influence of acclaimed chef Michael Solomonov, the city has become a top-tier destination for authentic hummus, perfectly crispy falafel, and other incredible Israeli-inspired dishes. From bustling Center City eateries to beloved neighborhood spots, here is a guide to the best Israeli street food in the City of Brotherly Love.

1. Dizengoff: The Hummus Heaven

• The Vibe: Named after a famous street in Tel Aviv, Dizengoff is a modern, fast-casual "hummusiya" (hummus shop) from the celebrated team of Michael Solomonov and Steve Cook. It's a popular and bustling spot, especially during the lunch rush.

  
  
  

• The Food: The star of the show is the hummus, which is unlike any you've had before—incredibly creamy, smooth, and silky. It's served warm in a shallow dish, swirled with high-quality olive oil, and topped with a rotating selection of delicious options like shredded chicken, spiced ground lamb, or seasonal vegetables. It's served with fresh, pillowy pita bread for dipping.

• Location: 1625 Sansom St, Philadelphia, PA 19103

  
  
  

2. Goldie: The Falafel Fanatic's Dream

• The Vibe: Located right next door to Dizengoff, Goldie is another hit from Solomonov and Cook. It's a quick-service, all-vegan, and kosher falafel shop with a simple menu that has been perfected. The lunchtime lines are a testament to its popularity.

• The Food: Goldie focuses on four things: incredibly crispy and flavorful falafel (served in a pita or as a salad), shawarma-spiced French fries, unique fountain drinks (like turmeric lime soda), and their legendary tahini (tehina) milkshakes. The shakes, which come in flavors like original, mint chocolate, and Turkish coffee, are a must-try.

  
  
  

• Location: 1526 Sansom St, Philadelphia, PA 19103

3. Merkaz: The All-Day Israeli Deli

• The Vibe: Another gem from the CookNSolo restaurant group, Merkaz is a vibrant, casual Israeli "deli" and pita sandwich shop. It's a popular spot for both takeout and a quick, satisfying sit-down meal.

• The Food: While they offer fantastic hummus and falafel, Merkaz is renowned for its incredible pita sandwiches, particularly the Chicken Shawarma. They also serve classic Israeli breakfast items like shakshuka and sabich, making it a fantastic all-day destination.

• Location: 1218 Sansom St, Philadelphia, PA 19107

4. Hummusology

• The Vibe: A cozy and authentic spot, Hummusology brings the feel of a true Tel Aviv hummus joint to Philadelphia. The atmosphere is casual, friendly, and focused on the food.

• The Food: As the name suggests, they specialize in hummus, serving it up in various delicious combinations. They also offer excellent falafel, shakshuka, and sabich, providing a complete Israeli street food experience.

• Location: 1112 Locust St, Philadelphia, PA 19107

From the world-class hummus at Dizengoff and the perfect falafel and tehina shakes at Goldie to the vibrant deli experience at Merkaz, Philadelphia's Israeli street food scene is a true culinary treasure. These establishments, led by passionate chefs and local families, offer an authentic, vibrant, and incredibly delicious taste of Tel Aviv right in the heart of Center City.