Chef Isabella

I had lunch with a colleague today at Zaytinya here in DC. After lunch I asked to meet Chef Isabella. He came out of the Kitchen to our table and it was a real thrill for me to meet and talk with him. He was generous with his time, funny and relaxed-but-in-charge. Zaytinya is a middle-eastern themed tapas restaurant, which is great for lunch since you can get as much or as little as you want. Beautiful and sophisticated interior, open kitchen. I had the four course fixed price meal - lots of choices. I had the Hommus, Spanakopita, Arayes and a walnut/yogurt/ice cream dessert. All were nearly incredible with just wonderful flavors. The 'inflated' pita bread served with the meal is itself a reason to go back. I can't believe it's been so long since I've been there. I'll be back soon. It would be a great location for an Offline!

Jon....

Delighted that you enjoyed but someone really tell the chef that in the Middle-East we don't call them "tapas"....They are meze (plural in Arabic and Hebrew mezetim)

Best
Rogov

[Jenise]

Ah, Mike Isabella. He did some interesting stuff last year on Top Chef, but at least under the duress of competition he wasn't in the same league as the Volt brothers, the big guy (Kevin?) or the blonde who works for Ripert. Comparing him to the spate on the current season, though, he seems like a standout. In fact, going back several seasons, contestants like Hung, Richard Blaise and Stephanie who beat Richard Blaise all seem better even in the very distant rear view mirror than anyone currently competing. Thanks for the report!

Delighted that you enjoyed but someone really tell the chef that in the Middle-East we don't call them "tapas"....They are meze (plural in Arabic and Hebrew mezetim)

The Chef knows, Rogov. The use of the word tapas was all me. The word "mezze" is on menus; and now, with my thanks to you, I know more about it.