Chef Eyal Shani Sparks Outrage by Spreading Hummus With Bare Hands

Israeli celebrity chef Eyal Shani has ignited a firestorm online after a video surfaced showing him preparing hummus with his bare hands at his new restaurant, Malka, in Beverly Hills. The clip, which went viral over the weekend, depicts Shani spreading a large platter of hummus using only his hands, without any utensils, during the restaurant's launch events. He then seasoned the hummus, also with his hands, as onlookers cheered and recorded the spectacle.

The video garnered tens of thousands of views and a flood of critical comments, with many deeming the act "disgusting," "unappetizing," and unsanitary, questioning the hygiene of using bare hands in food preparation. Some compared the scene to street food vendors in India, with one commenter stating, "In India, they have more respect."

Conversely, supporters defended Shani's actions, arguing that chefs frequently touch food, though it's usually hidden from diners in the kitchen. They emphasized that hands are a chef's tool, and as long as proper hygiene and handwashing are maintained, it is acceptable. Some also pointed out that gloves are not necessarily more sterile and can create a false sense of security.

Shani is known for his theatrical approach to cooking and dining, often interacting directly with guests and serving food in unconventional ways, such as directly on paper or a salt pile. Malka, his first restaurant on the West Coast, is kosher and located in the SIXTY Hotel near Rodeo Drive, a prime Beverly Hills location.

Shani previously told local press that he planned to explore Los Angeles markets to create an intuitive menu for the restaurant within 72 hours, featuring dishes like schnitzel, fried eggplant, and hummus.