Zou Zou's

New York City

While I was visiting New York City in early January, I was determined to try out the newest and most exciting restaurants the city had to offer. During my search, I stumbled upon Zou Zou’s, a unique restaurant located in the bustling neighborhood of Hudson Yards. This area is known for its impressive architecture, including the Vessel and The Shed, as well as its shopping mall, making it a popular destination for locals and tourists alike.

What caught my attention about Zou Zou’s was their use of Eastern Mediterranean cuisine and flavors. This is not a cuisine that I have seen offered too often, and I was excited to try something new. As I walked through the two doors at the entrance, I was greeted by friendly hosts and hostesses who were happy to accommodate me. When I first walked into the restaurant, I was surprised at how busy it was. It was clear that the restaurant had gained a lot of popularity, thanks in part to rave reviews from food critics and viral TikTok videos.

The Food

Chef Madeline Sperling, who has a wealth of experience working at renowned restaurants such as Gramercy Tavern and The Nomad, has created an impressive menu that caters to all types of food lovers. The restaurant specializes in Eastern Mediterranean cuisine with a modern twist, offering a variety of delicious dishes that are sure to delight the palate.

To begin our meal, we ordered the Five Dips, which were a selection of Chickpea, Ember-Roasted Eggplant, Whipped Ricotta, Green Tahini, and Kabocha Squash. Of the five dips, my personal favorite was the whipped ricotta, which was light and fluffy, with a subtle hint of saffron apricots that perfectly complemented the richness of the cheese. To pair with the dips, we also ordered the Kumamoto Oysters and Our Manti, both of which were delicious.

For the entrees, we decided to try the Grape Leaf Sea Bass, which was cooked in grape leaf and served at the table, revealing a flaky and flavorful fish. This dish is highly recommended for large groups as it is perfect for sharing. Our other shared entree was the Moroccan Fried Chicken, which had a unique blend of Mediterranean spices that I had never tried before. The flavors were bold and delicious and the chicken was cooked to perfection.

Overall, Chef Madeline Sperling’s menu offers an exquisite array of items that can indulge any food lover’s appetite. The restaurant’s modern take on Eastern Mediterranean cuisine is truly delicious and worth a visit for anyone looking for an innovative dining experience.

The Ambiance

Zou Zou’s is a bustling restaurant located in New York City that offers a lively, modern atmosphere that appeals to diners of all ages. During our visit, we observed a steady stream of patrons coming in and out of the restaurant, with the bar and dining room both consistently filled. The dim lighting in the restaurant creates a cozy ambiance that is perfect for a relaxing meal.

Our server was exceptional, catering to our every need throughout the meal. They gave us great recommendations for cocktails and I was particularly impressed with the Manhattan West that they suggested. The food was served at the perfect pace, giving us ample time to chat between courses without feeling rushed.

In conclusion, my experience at Zou Zou’s was truly an unforgettable one. The atmosphere, service, and food were all top-notch, and I look forward to returning the next time I find myself in New York City.