Dizengoff — Restaurant in Philadelphia

November 2024: Had to revise the rating from 5 to 3 because service was very poor.

This was my first visit since the restaurant remodeled from a casual takeout-style spot into more of a sit-down format. The restaurant was quieter, with many empty tables (including multiple two-tops), yet the hostess seated me at the bar. That decision is telling: there were open tables available, but as a solo diner I was placed at the very spot where staff stand only a few feet away — and still I couldn’t get my water glass refilled. If anything, being at the bar should have made attentive service easier, not harder.

I’ve attached a photo that shows the room was not full.

I was overlooked almost entirely while staff were busy fangirling over Kevin Castro, a guest bartender who was being given complimentary food. It was striking — staff seemed focused on entertaining him.

At one point, it was just me and Kevin Castro sitting at the bar as customers — yet all of the attention went to him, while I sat with an empty glass. It’s possible management isn’t even aware this happens — that staff prioritize fawning over industry celebrities with complimentary food and drinks while paying guests are overlooked. At a restaurant that automatically adds 20% gratuity, guests shouldn’t have to flag anyone down just to get water. As a diner, the impact is real, and it’s hard not to notice where the priorities are.

When I raised this with the hostess at the end, her apology felt rushed — she practically jumped out of the host stand like she was running a race to the bar. Once she got there, it was clear they were talking about me, because the hostess and all the bartenders turned to look in my direction. I was still sitting by the front door waiting for my rideshare, so I couldn’t exactly leave — it was freezing outside — and it felt like I was being gossiped about in front of the entire staff.

The food is excellent, but the mandatory 20% gratuity stings when basic service is missing. In practice, it seems to remove the incentive for staff to be attentive — they know the tip is guaranteed, whether or not they take care of the guest. Hospitality matters, and on this visit, I felt unwelcome — enough that I don’t plan to return.

I noticed the restaurant’s generic reply asking guests to email, but I want to share my details here, publicly, since future guests deserve to know. I live out of state, so it’s not like Dizengoff can make it up to me with another visit. The reality is I’m now a lost guest. I’ve visited much of the restaurant group: Abe Fisher once, Zahav twice, K’Far once, Goldie three times, Federal Donuts once, and Dizengoff four times.

To be fair, I’d gladly return to K’Far or Goldie — both offered excellent food and attentive service without the burden of a mandatory gratuity. But here, when service consistently takes a back seat, food alone isn’t enough.

Perhaps parties of two or more have a different experience, but for me as a solo diner, it felt like I was treated as less important. Unless you’re a recognizable guest, the bar seems to be where you’ll end up — and my experience shows that service can slip there.

I can’t change the gratuity that was automatically added, but I can share my experience so others know what to expect. That, to me, feels like the best contribution I can make.

November 2022: Still the best hummus. Now, if Dizengoff can come to Boston.

November 2021: The best hummus I have ever eaten in my life — comparable to what I ate at Zahav. Smooth, creamy, and flavorful. The beet salad and a pita bread comes with the dish. There weren’t any utensils packed in the bag, so make a note to ask the employees for...

I was excited to try the new Dizengoff concept. Pre-pandemic I stopped by the casual "hummusiya" iteration once or twice a month for lunch while working in Center City. Per the sage advice of Craig Leban - I wanted to give the new concept a month or so to work out the kinks - so I made my reservation accordingly. We arrived promptly for our reservation, but were asked to wait as the previous customers at our table were still finishing up. Understanding that this is a new concept from a very popular restaurant group - I was willing to wait a little bit even with a reservation [see: Seinfeld "What's the reservation for?" bit]. We ended up waiting just over 20 minutes to be seated. This would have been fine had we not also had to wait another 10 minutes for our server finally stop by our table. It seemed like there was some kind of shift change at the start of our reservation and confusion about who was taking our order...at any rate 30 minutes after our reservation we were finally able to put in our drink orders.

In addition to two cocktails, we also ordered the Turkish Hummus, Moroccan Cigars, Petrozilla, and Yemenite Braised Beef. The dishes themselves were all quite good and of the quality that people have come to expect from CookNSolo. As the Infatuation noted in their review Dizengoff "serve[s] Zahav and Laser Wolf hits a la carte" Unfortunately, the former star of the previous Dizengoff concept - the fluffy, delicious, warm pitas were no where to be found. Don't get me wrong - pitas were provided with the hummus, but they were of the cold, dry variety you could pick up at any grocery store...I was SO looking forward to the same pillowy pitas I had had so often at the previous concept that I was truly bummed to find out they aren't making the breads to order at Dizengoff the way there are at Laser Wolf and Zahav.

Overall, the food is good (minus the pita). The service hasn't worked out the kinks, yet. Expect to wait even if you have a reservation. As someone living in Fishtown - the new concept isn't worth the trek to Center City. We already have a better CookNSolo concept in Laser Wolf in our part of the city - and honestly Suraya has better pita than both of them. Feel free to give it a go if you're craving hummus and already downtown...but not worth a...

If you're in the mood for an extraordinary brunch experience, Dizengoff is an absolute must-visit. This Israeli brunch spot has quickly become a local favorite, and it's easy to see why. From the moment you step through the door, you’re greeted with an inviting atmosphere that effortlessly combines chic urban vibes with cozy warmth.

The highlight of my visit was the food, which was nothing short of phenomenal. Dizengoff offers a brunch menu brimming with authentic Israeli flavors and inventive twists. The Shakshuka, with its perfectly poached eggs nestled in a rich, spicy tomato sauce, was a standout. The accompanying warm pita was ideal for sopping up every last bit of the flavorful sauce. Their freshly made hummus, creamy and smooth, was served with a variety of toppings, each more delightful than the last. The assortment of fresh salads, with ingredients that tasted like they were picked that morning, was both vibrant and refreshing. I'm still obsessed with the little gem salad.

What truly sets Dizengoff apart, though, is the service. The staff here are exceptional—attentive, personable, and genuinely passionate about their food. They took the time to explain the menu with enthusiasm and made thoughtful recommendations based on our preferences. Their knowledge of the dishes was impressive, and their ability to cater to dietary restrictions with ease and grace was a testament to their professionalism and dedication.

The ambiance of Dizengoff complements its culinary offerings perfectly. Have you seen the pink bar?! It's gorgeous! The decor strikes a harmonious balance between modern elegance and Tel Aviv flare, making it a pleasant place to linger over a leisurely brunch. Whether you're catching up with friends or enjoying a quiet meal solo, the environment is welcoming and relaxing.

In short, Dizengoff provides a brunch experience that’s both memorable and delightful. With its exceptional food, thoughtful service, and inviting atmosphere, it’s no wonder this place has quickly become a beloved staple. If you’re looking to indulge in an unforgettable Israeli brunch, Dizengoff is where...