Zaitinya

I have been to Zaitinya quite a few times since it opened its doors about 5 years ago. Its bar is always crowded and full and you'd be hard pressed to find a seat at the bar when arriving on the later side. It is located just adjacent from the MLK library and very Metro accessible (just across the street from Gallery Place Metro that serves Yellow, Green and Red Metro lines).

From the outside, the design fits the building it resides; modern with mostly large glass windows from ceiling to bottom

Inside, all white walls, polished dark terrazzo floors that mimics a greek mediterranean architecture and design. Upon entering on the far side, a cozy fireplace resides just in front of the open kitchen. A huge bar area sits slightly to the right just a couple of steps up from the main dining room. In the center of the dining area long communal tables that seat app. 30 guests is in plain view under large ceiling sconces and lighting. Stairs to the upstairs dining area is located towards the back. The overall feel is a Modern mediterranean design with clean lines, and very cozy.

Chef Jose Andres who started Cafe Atlantico and its Mini Bar, Jaleo and its Spanish Tapas, last but not least Oyamel a mexican style tapas called antojitos. Andres prepares his dishes simply and perfectly; using proper spices, seasonings and accompaniments specific to the region he's trying to recreate. A puffy flat bread is served multiple times during the course of the meal.

The wine selections are mainly mediterranean: mostly Greek that includes Aegean Isle, Pelloponessos, Makedonia (Macedonia), a few Lebanese and a Turkish wine.

The food is Mezze, which is a Mediterranean style small plate similar to Tapas and Antojitos.

Most of the preparations revolve around earthy concoctions such as olives, capers, tahini, tabbouleh, etc.....almost Middle Eastern but not quite there, definitely mediterranean.

Again, here almost if not all of the preparations are very simple, not one flavor overpowers the other.On one of my earlier visits, the menu offered a single serving of deep fried red snapper that was simply seasoned with salt and pepper, lemon juice and a hint of capers.....tasted like summer. Last week for restaurant week I did not opt for the prix fixe and got their baby beets salad and their smoked foie gras. The beet salad was typical but very good.....tossed in a very light citrus dressing, feta and candied walnuts. The Foie Gras was excellently prepared, a hint of applewood smoke and served with crusty pita chips. The Foie gras was offered as a special, so it's not showing on their website, but it was a welcome surprise.

I will review more of their offerings so stay tuned......