Chef Spotlight: SAFONE AHMED of Hummus 21 in NYC

As the Head Chef, Safone Ahmed (Sam) leads a very innovative small culinary team at Hummus 21 in Midtown East. The restaurant is renowned in the area for Kosher Mediterranean cuisine. Originally from the United Kingdom, Sam moved to New York after he met his fiancé whose family came from Egypt. He developed an appreciation for Middle Eastern style cuisine. Soon, he started learning more about the cuisine at a Middle Eastern restaurant where he worked for few years before joining Hummus 21.

Sam believes in sourcing local ingredients including locally grown produce. He constantly seeks out the freshest and best ingredients that play a major role in the restaurant's menu development. He is committed to delivering great food and service to Hummus 21 guests.

Broadwayworld.com had the opportunity to interview Safone Ahmed about his career and Humus 21.

What was your earliest interest in cooking?

I am a picky eater but love to play round with food. I have always been interested on cooking as far as I can remember. My cooking passion started from the days I learn to help my mom to prepare food for the family

Who were some of your career mentors?

The art of cooking has to come from your heart and my mom inspired me the most. My mom would prepare variety of cousin's and from her I've learned a lot. She has been my career mentor as I was growing up as a chef. I love watching cooking shows during my down time and if I have to name one famous chef, Gordon Ramsay will be my cooking idol.

What culinary styles have influenced your career?

I have always been fascinated by spices. I am a health conscious chef and grilled food with Mediterranean spices inspires me the most. I am a supporter of healthy eating yet delicious food.

What do you consider the most distinguishing features of your work as a chef?

My style of cooking is simple no fat and lots of herbs. I believe food should taste delicious, quick to make, simple and healthy.

What is your favorite meal?

If I have to choose a dish that will be kebab with grilled seasonal vegetables and some sauce made of herbs and chilies. I am a fan of fresh salad with lots of herbs

Tell me a little bit about your restaurant for our readers.

My restaurant provides a variety of Mediterranean dishes characterized by an incredible fusion of flavors and appearance. Indulge in our hummus that we make freshly in house every day to our quality of meats from the finest poultry, beef, lamb and fish that are Glatt Kosher under IKC (An Orthodox Kosher Supervision)

There's truly something for everyone to enjoy even for those whom are vegan consisting of hummus, soups, salads to Laffa and Shakshuka. From our creative menu, you can rest assured that each dish will be prepared with your satisfaction in mind.

Hummus 21 is a Kosher Mediterranean restaurant located at 1055 1st Avenue (between 57th and 58th Street) New York, NY 10022. They are open 7 days a week for dinner and on Saturday and Sunday for afternoon brunch. Call (212) 371-2161 or visit http://www.hummus21.com/.

Photo Credit: Courtesy of Safone Ahmed

To post a comment, you must register and login.