Hamsa, a modern Middle Eastern concept, is set to debut in Rice Village on
Wednesday, May 11 at 5555 Morningside Drive. Hamsa will be the first of its kind offering
guests a unique culinary experience with an upbeat and sophisticated vibe. Guests should
expect dishes rich with vegetables, spices and one-of-a-kind flavor profiles meant to
encourage gathering around a table and enjoying great company. The restaurant will be open for lunch and dinner services and offer complimentary valet parking.
Chef Sash Kurgan’s approach to Hamsa reflects elevated Middle Eastern classics with unique flavor profiles unlike anything you’ll find in Houston. Shared plates will be a menu focal point, and guests are encouraged to begin their meal with a variety of salatim dishes followed by small plates.
Taking the lead in the kitchen with Kurgan is chef Yotam Dolev. The duo has been working together to perfect Hamsa’s menu, which includes unique dishes like Eggplant Balady, Arak Muscles and a variety of hummuses and skewers. Soon-to-be lunch favorites include the Cauliflower Couscous Salad, Shakshuka and Grilled Branzino.
Hamsa will offer a six-seat chef’s table for the ultimate experience called “Yalla Yalla,” which will be a curation of top chef selections. The table offers a prime view of the brick oven, baking fresh pita throughout the day. Another unique feature to the kitchen is a charcoal grill used exclusively to cook skewers.
The masterminds behind this project (Itai Ben Eli, Sash Kurgan, Itamar Levy) formed Sof
Hospitality last year after debuting their wildly popular bakery, Badolina. Most commonly known for their smash hit steakhouse, Doris Metropolitan, the trio has been working behind the scenes for nearly two years on this project and are excited for it to make its grand debut.
“The Houston community truly embraces our culture so what better place to really capitalize on our skills and take things to the next level. We’re just out here doing what we love and having fun doing it,” said Itai Ben Eli in a statement.
Sof’s executive pastry chef Michal Michaeli will be introducing special desserts like Grilled
Pears, Basboosa Malabi Cake and Nemesis Halvah among other Middle Eastern favorites.
Meanwhile, Hamsa’s wine list will consist of 100 to 150 well-curated, worldly wines which were hand selected by general manager and sommelier Melissa Rogers. Patrons are encouraged to peruse the Middle Eastern section complete with Israeli and Lebanese highlights.
Known for their high-quality restaurants and bustling nightlife scene, Tel Aviv was a huge part of the inspiration behind the new concept. Lindsay Madrigal of LM Designs has embraced their heritage and worldly travels with colorful and sleek aesthetics. The lively concept boasts modern furnishings and intricate designs complete with modern Moroccan flair. The buzzing ambiance and design components will make for a polished and approachable atmosphere.
The 4,600-square foot space is complete with a champagne wall and will share the expansive patio with its sister concept, Badolina Bakery.
