Like a lot of good ideas, brothers Roger, Riyan, and Kareem Awar decided to create a hummus-focused eatery from a conversation around the kitchen table.
The three grew up surrounded by classic Lebanese dishes. Home-cooked, generously seasoned meals made by their mother, Teta (grandmother), and great-grandmother ignited their love affair with food. Hummus, in particular, became a symbol of comfort and culture.
“To most people, hummus is a dip. To our family, it’s home, and it brings people together. It’s the first thing on the table, and the last thing anyone wants to leave,” shares Roger.
Now, they’re sharing the family legacy with Adelaide, opening Hummus Hustle down James Place in July. Hummus Hustle marks their first foray into hospitality, but one rooted in over 100 years of family tradition.
The menu is build-your-own style with hummus as the hero of every dish. You can choose a base (bowl, pita or wrap), pair it with a rotating line-up of house-made hummus flavours like beetroot, harissa, basil pesto or traditional, and top it with proteins like falafel or chicken and beef shawarma coated in a spice mixture.
Everything is made in-house, every day, from the drinks to the zesty tahini lemon sauce and, of course, the hummus.
“We’ve gone down a healthier option, where we won’t be grilling our meat – instead, we’ll be baking it so that it’s cooked within its own flavours, which also stays true to our identity,” Roger explains.
Also on the menu is a tight lineup of soups, including the standout lentil and spinach, a family recipe handed down from their mum, who’s been the heart of their food story from day one.
“Our mum is the backbone of our family, and she has been throughout our hospitality journey too. It means a lot to us to be able to share the food that brings our family together,” continues Roger.
Designed by local creative Simon Cecere, the Hummus Hustle brand and space draws on Lebanese heritage and mid-century Beirut. The colour palette boasts forest greens, spiced orange, and creamy neutrals inspired by hand-painted tiles and coastal clay, taking you straight to the streets of Lebanon.
The venue joins a swathe of new spots down the bustling and revamped James Place, including Bottega Bandito, AH-SAI-YEE, and Bolla Milano.
Doors due to swing open July 18. Stop by for generous, unfussy food that says “you’re home.”
“We believe food should feel like family – familiar, warm, and full of love. So we welcome you not just as a customer, but as a guest at our table,” says Roger.
“We can’t wait to recreate the magic of Lebanese and family culture right here in Adelaide.”
WHAT: Hummus Hustle
WHERE: 13 James Place, Adelaide
WHEN: Set to open July 23. Monday to Saturday from 7:30am.
For the Instagram, click here.
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