Michael Solomonov's Best Restaurants: A Foodie's Guide
Hey guys! If you're a foodie like me, then you've probably heard of Michael Solomonov. This James Beard Award-winning chef has taken the culinary world by storm with his modern take on Israeli cuisine. Solomonov's restaurants aren't just places to eat; they're immersive experiences that celebrate the vibrant flavors and rich cultural heritage of Israel. I will provide you with a list of the best restaurants that Michael Solomonov owns.
Zahav: The Crown Jewel
When you talk about Solomonov's restaurants, you absolutely must start with Zahav. This isn't just a restaurant; it's a culinary institution. Zahav, meaning "gold" in Hebrew, truly lives up to its name. It's the flagship restaurant that put Solomonov on the map, and it continues to dazzle diners with its innovative and authentic Israeli dishes.
Walking into Zahav is like stepping into a warm, inviting home. The ambiance is cozy and sophisticated, with exposed brick walls, soft lighting, and a lively open kitchen. You can feel the energy and passion of the chefs as they prepare each dish with meticulous care. The menu at Zahav is a testament to Solomonov's dedication to showcasing the diversity of Israeli cuisine. It's not just about falafel and hummus (though they do have some of the best hummus you'll ever taste!). It's about exploring the regional specialties, the unique spice blends, and the time-honored cooking techniques that make Israeli food so special. One of the best ways to experience Zahav is to opt for the tasting menu. This allows you to sample a wide range of dishes, from the famous hummus tehina with laffa bread to the succulent pomegranate-braised lamb shoulder. Each dish is carefully crafted and beautifully presented, a true feast for the senses.
The hummus at Zahav deserves a special mention. It's not your average supermarket hummus; this is a silky-smooth, intensely flavorful masterpiece that will redefine your understanding of what hummus can be. Served with freshly baked laffa bread, it's the perfect way to start your meal and get your taste buds tingling. Beyond the hummus, Zahav's menu is full of surprises. The salatim, a selection of small, flavorful salads, are a must-try. These vibrant and colorful salads are bursting with fresh herbs, spices, and vegetables, offering a delightful contrast of textures and flavors. Whether you're a seasoned foodie or just someone looking for a delicious and memorable meal, Zahav is a must-visit. Be sure to make a reservation well in advance, as this place is always in high demand!
Dizengoff: Hummus Heaven
Okay, so you've tried Zahav's hummus and now you're completely obsessed? I get it! That's where Dizengoff comes in. Named after a bustling street in Tel Aviv, Dizengoff is Solomonov's homage to the humble hummus. But trust me, this is hummus taken to a whole new level. Dizengoff offers a more casual and laid-back dining experience compared to Zahav, but the quality and flavor are just as exceptional. It's the perfect spot for a quick lunch, a casual dinner with friends, or even just a solo hummus craving fix.
The menu at Dizengoff is simple and focused: hummus, hummus, and more hummus! But don't let the simplicity fool you. Each bowl of hummus is made fresh daily using the finest ingredients and topped with a variety of flavorful toppings. From the classic tehina and ful (stewed fava beans) to more creative combinations like roasted cauliflower and spicy harissa, there's a hummus to suit every taste. And of course, no hummus experience is complete without a generous serving of warm, fluffy pita bread. The pita at Dizengoff is baked fresh throughout the day, ensuring that it's always soft and pillowy. It's the perfect vessel for scooping up every last bit of that delicious hummus. But Dizengoff isn't just about the hummus. They also offer a selection of Israeli salads and sides, like Israeli salad, and freshly squeezed juices and limonana. These additions perfectly complement the hummus and make for a well-rounded and satisfying meal.
What I love about Dizengoff is its simplicity and authenticity. It's a place where you can come as you are, enjoy a delicious and affordable meal, and feel like you've been transported to a bustling Tel Aviv street corner. It's a celebration of Israeli street food at its finest. If you're a hummus lover, Dizengoff is an absolute must-visit. It's the perfect place to indulge in your hummus cravings and discover new and exciting flavor combinations.
Abe Fisher: A Culinary Journey Through the Diaspora
Ready to expand your horizons beyond Israeli cuisine? Abe Fisher is Solomonov's tribute to the Jewish diaspora, a culinary journey through the diverse flavors and traditions of Jewish communities around the world. This restaurant is a celebration of the rich and complex history of the Jewish people, told through the language of food. Abe Fisher's menu is divided into sections representing different regions and communities, from Eastern Europe to North Africa to the Americas. Each dish is carefully researched and thoughtfully prepared, using authentic ingredients and techniques to capture the essence of the region.
One of the highlights of Abe Fisher is the selection of smoked and cured fish. These delicacies are prepared in-house using traditional methods, resulting in intensely flavorful and beautifully textured creations. From the classic smoked salmon to the more adventurous whitefish salad, there's something to please every palate. The chopped liver is another must-try dish. This classic Jewish appetizer is made with chicken livers, onions, and hard-boiled eggs, blended together into a smooth and creamy spread. It's rich, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying. Abe Fisher also offers a selection of hearty and comforting main courses, like the Hungarian Goulash and the Moroccan Tagine. These dishes are perfect for a cold winter night, warming you from the inside out with their rich flavors and aromatic spices.
What sets Abe Fisher apart is its commitment to authenticity and its dedication to preserving the culinary traditions of the Jewish diaspora. It's a place where you can learn about the history and culture of the Jewish people while enjoying a delicious and memorable meal. If you're looking for a unique and educational dining experience, Abe Fisher is a must-visit.
Federal Donuts: Fried Chicken and Fancy Donuts
Okay, let's switch gears completely. Craving something sweet and savory? Federal Donuts is your answer! This isn't your typical donut shop. Federal Donuts combines two seemingly disparate loves – fried chicken and fancy donuts – into one glorious and addictive concept. Trust me, it works. The fried chicken at Federal Donuts is crispy, juicy, and incredibly flavorful. It's brined for hours, dredged in a secret blend of spices, and fried to perfection. The result is a chicken that's crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and bursting with flavor. You can choose from a variety of sauces to accompany your chicken, from classic honey-glazed to spicy chili garlic.
And then there are the donuts. Oh, the donuts! Federal Donuts offers a rotating selection of fancy donuts in a variety of creative and delicious flavors. From the classic glazed to the more adventurous strawberry lavender, there's a donut to satisfy every sweet tooth. The donuts are made fresh throughout the day, ensuring that they're always soft, fluffy, and bursting with flavor. What's so brilliant about Federal Donuts is the contrast between the savory fried chicken and the sweet donuts. It's a flavor combination that's both unexpected and incredibly satisfying. The spicy fried chicken pairs perfectly with the sweet and creamy donuts, creating a culinary experience that's both exciting and comforting.
Federal Donuts is the perfect place to grab a quick lunch, a sweet treat, or a satisfying meal. It's a fun and casual spot that's sure to put a smile on your face. If you're looking for something unique and delicious, Federal Donuts is a must-visit.
Laser Wolf: Israeli Skewers with a View
Last but not least, we have Laser Wolf, Solomonov's modern Israeli skewer house perched atop the Stephen Starr designed Hoxton Hotel. Named after Chef Solomonov’s father, Laser Wolf offers a unique dining experience with panoramic city views and a menu focused on grilled meats and vegetables served on skewers. The atmosphere is vibrant and lively, with a bustling open kitchen and a sleek, modern design.
The menu at Laser Wolf is simple and straightforward: a selection of skewers grilled over an open fire, served with a variety of flavorful sides and salads. The skewers range from classic lamb and chicken to more adventurous options like brisket and halloumi. Each skewer is expertly seasoned and grilled to perfection, resulting in juicy, flavorful, and perfectly charred meat. The sides and salads are just as impressive, with a variety of vibrant and flavorful options to complement the skewers. From the classic Israeli salad to the more creative roasted cauliflower with tahini, there's something to please every palate. And of course, no meal at Laser Wolf is complete without a selection of delicious dips and spreads, like hummus, baba ghanoush, and matbucha.
What makes Laser Wolf so special is its combination of delicious food, stunning views, and lively atmosphere. It's the perfect spot for a special occasion, a romantic dinner, or a fun night out with friends. If you're looking for a unique and memorable dining experience, Laser Wolf is a must-visit. Each of Solomonov's restaurants offers a unique and unforgettable dining experience. Whether you're craving authentic Israeli cuisine, a culinary journey through the Jewish diaspora, or just some delicious fried chicken and donuts, there's something for everyone. So next time you're in Philadelphia, be sure to check out one (or all!) of these amazing restaurants. You won't be disappointed!