Michael Solomonov's Best Restaurants: A Foodie's Guide

Hey guys! If you're a serious foodie like me, you've probably heard the name Michael Solomonov. This James Beard Award-winning chef is a culinary wizard, especially when it comes to modern Israeli cuisine. Solomonov has transformed the Philadelphia food scene and beyond, and today, we're diving deep into some of his must-visit restaurants. So, buckle up and get ready for a delicious journey!

Zahav: The Crown Jewel

Let's kick things off with Zahav, arguably Solomonov's most celebrated restaurant. Zahav isn't just a restaurant; it's an experience. This is where you'll find modern Israeli cuisine at its absolute finest.

From the moment you step inside, you're transported to a warm, inviting space. The atmosphere is lively, the service is impeccable, and the food? Oh man, the food is out of this world.

The menu is a carefully curated collection of dishes that showcase the incredible diversity of Israeli flavors. Solomonov takes traditional recipes and elevates them with modern techniques and the freshest ingredients. The result is a culinary symphony that will leave your taste buds singing. One of the standout items is the laffa bread, baked fresh in a wood-burning oven and served with a selection of hummus. Trust me; this isn't your average grocery store hummus. It's creamy, dreamy, and intensely flavorful. And the laffa? Soft, chewy, and perfectly charred.

But Zahav offers so much more than just hummus and laffa. The mezze selection is a must-try, featuring an array of small plates that are perfect for sharing. Think creamy tehina, smoky baba ghanoush, and vibrant Israeli salad. Each dish is a burst of flavor, a testament to Solomonov's dedication to quality and authenticity. For the main courses, prepare to be blown away by dishes like the roasted lamb shoulder. Slow-cooked to perfection, the lamb is incredibly tender and infused with aromatic spices. It's the kind of dish that you'll be dreaming about for days after. Zahav is more than just a meal; it's a celebration of Israeli culture and cuisine. It's a place where you can gather with friends and family, share delicious food, and create lasting memories. So, if you're planning a trip to Philadelphia, make sure to book a reservation well in advance. This place is popular, and for good reason!

Dizengoff: Hummus Heaven

Next up, we have Dizengoff, Solomonov's hummus shop that's taking the world by storm. If you thought hummus was just a side dish, Dizengoff is here to change your mind. This place is all about celebrating the humble chickpea, transforming it into a culinary masterpiece.

Dizengoff offers a rotating menu of hummus variations, each one more creative and delicious than the last. From classic tehina hummus to more adventurous flavors like spicy harissa hummus, there's something for everyone. And the best part? All the hummus is made fresh daily, using the highest quality ingredients. What sets Dizengoff apart is its commitment to authenticity. Solomonov draws inspiration from the hummus shops of Israel, bringing a taste of the Middle East to the heart of America. The hummus is served warm, with a generous drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of za'atar. It's accompanied by fresh pita bread, perfect for scooping up every last bite.

But Dizengoff is more than just hummus. The menu also features a selection of salads and sides, all designed to complement the hummus. Think Israeli salad, pickled vegetables, and tahini slaw. These dishes add a refreshing contrast to the rich, creamy hummus, creating a balanced and satisfying meal. The atmosphere at Dizengoff is casual and inviting. It's the kind of place where you can grab a quick lunch or linger over a leisurely meal with friends. The staff is friendly and knowledgeable, always happy to offer recommendations and answer questions. If you're a hummus lover, Dizengoff is a must-visit. It's a place where you can experience the true potential of this humble dish, transformed into a culinary work of art.

Federal Donuts: A Sweet and Savory Sensation

Now, for something completely different, let's talk about Federal Donuts. This place is a bit of an anomaly in Solomonov's portfolio, but it's a testament to his culinary versatility. Federal Donuts is all about two things: donuts and fried chicken. And they do both exceptionally well. The donuts at Federal Donuts are unlike anything you've ever tasted. They're cake donuts, made fresh throughout the day and coated in a variety of creative glazes. From classic chocolate glaze to more adventurous flavors like strawberry lavender, there's a donut for every palate. And the best part? The donuts are served warm, so they're always soft, fluffy, and melt-in-your-mouth delicious.

But Federal Donuts isn't just about donuts. The fried chicken is just as legendary. Crispy, juicy, and perfectly seasoned, the fried chicken is a must-try. It's brined for hours, then coated in a secret blend of spices and fried to golden perfection. The result is a chicken that's incredibly flavorful and satisfying. The fried chicken is served with a variety of sauces, from classic ranch to more exotic options like chili garlic. And if you're feeling adventurous, you can even order a donut fried chicken sandwich. Yes, you read that right. It's a crazy combination, but it works surprisingly well. The sweetness of the donut complements the savory chicken, creating a flavor explosion in your mouth. Federal Donuts has multiple locations throughout Philadelphia, so you're never too far from a donut or fried chicken fix. It's the perfect place to grab a quick bite, satisfy your cravings, and indulge in a little bit of culinary fun.

Goldie: Falafel Dreams Come True

Goldie is where you need to go if you are craving falafel. This spot is a celebration of all things falafel, serving up some of the best in the city. The menu is simple and focused, allowing the falafel to truly shine.

The falafel at Goldie is made fresh daily, using a blend of chickpeas, herbs, and spices. It's fried to crispy perfection and served in a warm pita bread with a variety of toppings. Think tahini, Israeli salad, and pickled vegetables. Each bite is a burst of flavor and texture, a testament to the quality of the ingredients and the skill of the chefs. What sets Goldie apart is its attention to detail. The pita bread is soft and fluffy, the toppings are fresh and vibrant, and the falafel is always perfectly cooked. It's the kind of place where you can taste the love and care that goes into every dish. Goldie also offers a selection of sides and drinks, all designed to complement the falafel. Think fries, salads, and freshly squeezed lemonade. These additions round out the meal, creating a satisfying and complete dining experience. The atmosphere at Goldie is casual and energetic. It's a popular spot for lunch and dinner, so be prepared for a bit of a wait. But trust me, the falafel is worth it.

K'Far: A Taste of Israeli Bakery

Last but not least, we have K'Far, Solomonov's Israeli bakery and cafe. If you have a sweet tooth, this place is heaven. K'Far offers a wide selection of pastries, breads, and sandwiches, all made with the finest ingredients and a touch of Israeli flair. The pastries at K'Far are a must-try. From babka to rugelach, each pastry is a work of art. They're flaky, buttery, and filled with delicious ingredients like chocolate, cinnamon, and nutella. And the best part? They're served warm, so they're always soft, gooey, and melt-in-your-mouth delicious.

But K'Far is more than just pastries. The breads are equally impressive. From challah to sourdough, each loaf is baked fresh daily and has a unique flavor and texture. The sandwiches are also worth trying, featuring a variety of fillings like smoked salmon, tuna salad, and roasted vegetables. The atmosphere at K'Far is warm and inviting. It's the perfect place to grab a coffee and a pastry, catch up with friends, or simply relax and enjoy the ambiance. The staff is friendly and knowledgeable, always happy to offer recommendations and answer questions. If you're looking for a taste of Israeli bakery, K'Far is a must-visit. It's a place where you can indulge in delicious treats, experience the warmth of Israeli hospitality, and create lasting memories.

Final Thoughts

So there you have it, guys! A culinary tour of Michael Solomonov's incredible restaurants. From the modern Israeli cuisine of Zahav to the falafel goodness of Goldie, there's something for everyone to enjoy. Solomonov's dedication to quality, authenticity, and innovation has made him a culinary icon, and his restaurants are a testament to his talent and passion. So, next time you're in Philadelphia, make sure to check out these amazing spots. Your taste buds will thank you!