Zahav

Zahav is a renowned Israeli restaurant located in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. The restaurant, which opened in 2008, is co-owned by chef Michael Solomonov and restaurateur Steven Cook. Zahav, meaning 'gold' in Hebrew, is celebrated for its innovative approach to Israeli cuisine, and has received numerous accolades, including the prestigious James Beard Foundation Award for Outstanding Restaurant in 2019.

History[edit | edit source]

Zahav was established in 2008 by Solomonov and Cook, who aimed to showcase the diversity and modernity of Israeli cuisine. The restaurant quickly gained recognition for its unique menu, which draws inspiration from the rich culinary traditions of Israel, the Middle East, North Africa, and the Mediterranean.

Cuisine[edit | edit source]

The cuisine at Zahav is characterized by its use of fresh, high-quality ingredients and bold, vibrant flavors. The menu features a variety of dishes, including mezze, small plates that are a staple of Middle Eastern cuisine, and hummus, which is made fresh daily. Other popular dishes include the lamb shoulder, which is slow-cooked over coals, and the tehina semifreddo, a unique dessert that combines tehina, a type of sesame paste, with a light, airy semifreddo.

Reception[edit | edit source]

Zahav has received widespread acclaim for its innovative approach to Israeli cuisine. In 2019, it was awarded the James Beard Foundation Award for Outstanding Restaurant, one of the highest honors in the American restaurant industry. The restaurant has also been praised for its warm, welcoming atmosphere and excellent service.