Zaytinya – Our Go-To After a Travel Day

Kebab Platter

Dining out after a long day of travel can be a challenge. Finding a restaurant that balances an elevated culinary experience with a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere is no small feat. Enter Zaytinya, the Mediterranean-inspired restaurant by Chef José Andrés, where flavors from Greece, Turkey, and Lebanon come together in a vibrant and delicious mezze-style dining experience.

For years, Zaytinya New York City has been our landing restaurant whenever we travel to the city. Located in the NoMad district within the Ritz-Carlton, it has become part of our post-travel ritual; check in, unwind, and refuel. When schedules align, we’ve even had the chance to meet up with NYC friends in this charming and family-friendly setting.

Eggplant Pide

One of the standout features of Zaytinya is how effortlessly it accommodates families. The mezze-style dining allows everyone at the table to sample a variety of flavors, making it perfect for kids who enjoy exploring different foods. Some of our family favorites include falafel, pide, hummus, and the kebab platter.

Falafel that is Emma approved

Anyone who knows Emma knows that if her falafel doesn’t crack green, it’s a dealbreaker. Thankfully, she’s happy to report that Zaytinya’s falafel passes the test, perfectly crisp on the outside and vibrant green inside.

On a recent trip to Miami, we decided to implement our same "landing plan" at Zaytinya’s South Beach location and we were not disappointed. The Miami outpost delivered the same vibrant flavors and exceptional service that we love about NYC, but with a more relaxed beachside feel. Sitting on the terrace with the ocean breeze made for a perfect start to our trip.

As much as we love the NYC and Miami locations, it’s important to note that not all Zaytinya experiences are the same. The Washington, D.C. location was a letdown, diverging significantly from the high standards we’ve come to expect. The only major difference? The D.C. location isn’t nestled within a Ritz-Carlton property, a detail that makes us wonder if the hotel partnership influences the quality and consistency of the experience.

I recently added José Andrés’ cookbook to my collection and I am so pleased I have. It features easy weeknight recipes alongside more elaborate dishes, making it a great addition for both casual home cooks and seasoned food lovers alike.

When in New York City or Miami, Zaytinya is a must. Whether you're looking for a comforting post-travel meal, a place to gather with friends and family, or just an outstanding Mediterranean dining experience, Zaytinya NYC or Miami is a must.