Zahter, a new restaurant in Soho, is making waves with its authentic Turkish cuisine. Run by Esra Muslu, a chef who has already made a name for herself in Istanbul’s food scene, Zahter is her first UK opening. Muslu’s experience includes working in the kitchen of Soho House and heading Ottelenghi’s kitchen in Spitalfields.
The restaurant draws on an eclectic range of flavors and ingredients to reflect the cuisine of Istanbul, a city known for its cosmopolitan cuisine. In this article, we will review Zahter and provide practical information and a map to help you plan your visit.
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Zahter – The Full Review
The Food
Zahter, located in Istanbul, offers a fusion of Middle Eastern and European cuisine. The restaurant prides itself on using the finest ingredients and simple cooking techniques to create dishes that burst with flavor.
One of the standout dishes is the fava, a pureed broad bean dish with hints of dill that pairs perfectly with the restaurant’s signature pide bread. The pide bread is cooked in a wood-fired pizza oven, resulting in a squidgy dough with a crispy glaze that is hard to resist.
The warm mezze section of the menu, while enjoyable, doesn’t quite live up to the cold mezze. The Kuzu Tandir, a new addition to the menu, is a slow-cooked lamb dish served with cauliflower puree, but it doesn’t quite hit the mark. The Tava Böreği, a pastry dish with cheese, is a bit hit and miss, with some parts having more cheese than others.
The main dishes, however, are a highlight. The Levrek, a sea bass with chimichurri sauce cooked on a coal pit, is a standout dish that is both flavorful and perfectly cooked.
For dessert, the baklava is a must-try. Light, crispy, and served with a dollop of cream, it’s the perfect end to a delicious meal.
The Drink
Zahter’s cocktail menu features classic drinks with a Turkish twist. The sours, made with raki, the national drink of Turkey, are a unique and enjoyable experience. The Zahter’s Moon, the restaurant’s signature drink, is a two-part drink consisting of a cocktail and a small jug of cold, purple tea to pour over the top. While the drinks are enjoyable, they don’t quite match up to the quality of the food.
The Look
Zahter’s interior is sleek and inviting, with exposed brick and big windows that let in plenty of natural light. The restaurant is split across four floors, each with the same aesthetic. The simple decor allows the food to be the centerpiece, and the kitchen bar provides a front-row seat to watch the chefs in action.
Final Thoughts
Zahter is a restaurant that prioritizes simple cooking and high-quality ingredients. While some dishes may miss the mark, the overall experience is enjoyable and memorable. The restaurant strikes a balance between being fancy and unpretentious, making it a must-visit for anyone who enjoys Middle Eastern cuisine.
Zahter – Practical Information and Map
Zahter, also known as za’atar, is a popular herb blend used in Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisine. It is made by mixing dried thyme, oregano, and sumac with sesame seeds and salt. Zahter can be used as a seasoning for meat, vegetables, bread, and salads.
Where to Find Zahter
Zahter can be found in specialty food stores, Middle Eastern markets, and online. It is sold in small packets or jars, and can also be purchased in bulk.
How to Store Zahter
To maintain the freshness and flavor of zahter, it should be stored in an airtight container in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. It can also be stored in the refrigerator or freezer for longer shelf life.
Zahter Map
Zahter is commonly used in Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisine, particularly in countries such as Lebanon, Syria, Jordan, Palestine, Israel, and Turkey. It is also popular in North African countries such as Morocco and Tunisia. Zahter can be found in most restaurants and homes in these regions, and is often used as a table condiment.