Best of Philly 2009: Cocktail
It’s not that we’ve never had a drink that tastes like what it claims to be (peanut-butter-and-jelly shot, anyone?), but this grainy ...
Best of Philly 2008: New Restaurant, City
Before opening Zahav, restaurateur Steve Cook and chef Michael Solomonov took the kitchen crew on a tour of Israel to inspire the coo...
User Reviews (12) :
Review
We had heard heaps about Zahav and our experience exceeded our expectations. Zahav is not just about food - it is about the fine details: from the sparkling wine glasses to the friendly, helpful and professional staff working as a well-oiled machine looking after all of their patrons on a busy Saturday night. The salads, which may appear to be typical Israeli, are in a class of their own. Yes, the portions are small, because Zahav is not about stuffing oneself. It is about enjoying every bite and tasting a variety of dishes with an amazing mixture of tastes. Zahav is the epitome of the Israeli experience: creativity and elegance combined with personal touch, warmth, pride and joy.
Posted by Judy: Dec. December 18th, 2010 at 9:34 PM
Review
very disappointing - food was ok, average, nothing special - would have eaten better in any of dozens of normal Middle Eastern restaurants. Overpriced by about four to one. Beautiful decor - been there, done that, never go back.
Posted by Barry: Jan. January 7th, 2010 at 8:42 AM
Review
This was a fantastic experience, the best we've had all year. We loved the tapas type experience and all the variety offered with the combination special which allows you to choose several dishes. The salad sampler was awesome, hummus and pita delicious, and while we didn't love every dish we selected for our multiple appetizers and entrees, the variety available was extensive and different and those dishes we loved we really loved a lot! My favorite dishes trumped every other dish I've had in a while. Dessert options equally fantastic. Ambience was swanky and fun, service was eclectic and attentive.
Posted by Autumn: May. May 20th, 2009 at 3:11 PM
Review
Awesome restaurant! The food is sublime, the drinks are amazing and the staff and atmosphere are as nice as can be! Their large pita bread is out of this world! I have no idea what people are complaining about...Small portions? How about normal sized?! My girlfriend and I are of average build and were very satisfied after an appetizer, entree and dessert. As for paying for salads and what not, no Israeli restaurant gives you salads for free! Check your facts... In short, go there.
Posted by M: Apr. April 24th, 2009 at 12:37 PM
Review
Unique flavors combine with excellent preparations to create an unforgettable dining experience. Your palate will be grateful!
Posted by David: Jul. July 20th, 2008 at 3:19 PM
Review
Zahav is not nearly as Israeli as it was unnecessarily haute. The prices look fair and the food is terrific - however you may not even notice – the portions are offensively small. In order to walk out "satisfied" you will need to order salatim (salads), mezze (appetizer), hummus and laffa (the bread, which they charge you extra for) AND an entrée - a single skewer with about 1/2 a cup of couscous or rice. Israeli food which is normally simple and humble has never been made to look more pretentious. The atmosphere in the restaurant is artificial, desperately trying to be hip. The servers seem to be understaffed and look ridiculous in “vintage” Abercrombie style shirts with Hebrew words on them. As cliché as all black may be, it’s quintessentially Israeli. A total miss on a sure-fire hit on the uniforms.
Posted by Emma: Jul. July 17th, 2008 at 12:15 AM
Review
the meze plates sch as baba ghanoush, hummus, cabbage salad, and such are given free at many such restaurants in Israel. here you are charged which is ironic given the owner's claim to authenticity. Loved evrything about the place except value given.
Posted by jay: Jun. June 23rd, 2008 at 4:32 PM
Review
My friend and I were very impressed with Zahav - the decor is gorgeous and unique, and we both commented on how we felt like we were actually in another country, rather than center city Philadelphia. We ordered an assortment of small plates, plus dessert and drinks, and everything was phenomenal, especially the fried cauliflower and the haloume cheese! The chocolate cake for dessert was also spectacular, and I am looking forward to going back!
Posted by Kim: Jun. June 11th, 2008 at 10:35 AM
Review
You cannot find better Israeli food on the east coast. Zahav is a delight to the senses and its food is of the highest quality. There was nothing bad about my dining experience and I will gladly go back when I get a chance.
Posted by Dan: Jun. June 3rd, 2008 at 2:26 PM
Review
You cannot find better Israeli food on the east coast. Zahav is a delight to the senses and its food is of the highest quality. There was nothing bad about my dining experience and I will gladly go back when I get a chance.
Posted by Dan: Jun. June 3rd, 2008 at 2:26 PM
Review
This restaurant was a complete disappointment besides the decor, and decor itself won't make it worthwhile. Overpriced and tasteless. The table next to me was served raw chicken, not once, but twice. What a shame. The salmon I had had bones throughout. Couldn't even eat it. Service was okay, not what you'd expect for what you're paying for though. My friends and I won't go back, and suggest you don't waste your time.
Posted by Denise: Jun. June 1st, 2008 at 10:45 AM
Review
This restaurant was a complete disappointment besides the decor, and decor itself won't make it worthwhile. Overpriced and tasteless. The table next to me was served raw chicken, not once, but twice. What a shame. The salmon I had had bones throughout. Couldn't even eat it. Service was okay, not what you'd expect for what you're paying for though. My friends and I won't go back, and suggest you don't waste your time.
Posted by Denise: Jun. June 1st, 2008 at 10:45 AM