Seemor
Zizi Wine BarB+Worth Trying
2012 Broadway, New York, NY 10023
· Wine bar
· 4.6/5 Google (104 reviews)
Reservations · Outdoor seating
Stylish UWS wine bar with creative Middle Eastern small plates, a distinctive Mediterranean-leaning wine list, and cozy ambiance; portions run small but happy hour softens prices.
Why it gets a B+ for overall quality
Zizi Wine Bar delivers competitive neighborhood dining through flavorful Middle Eastern small plates and knowledgeable wine guidance, but inconsistent execution across visits and modest portions relative to price prevent a higher grade. The warm, intimate setting suits pre-theater sips and wine discovery, though tight seating limits comfort—worth visiting if in the Upper West Side area, particularly during happy hour.
Restaurant Summary
Bottles line the walls and candles warm the room, creating a cozy neighborhood vibe that suits pre-theater sips or late catch-ups. Guests praise staff who steer them to discoveries on a Mediterranean-leaning list, noting, "Our server picked a wine that made the meal." Expect lively downstairs and a calmer upstairs that some find less atmospheric. The cooking skews creative Middle Eastern rather than straight traditional: charred cauliflower over butter bean puree, shawarma with tangy amba, and a lamb pita locals rave about. Portions are intentionally small; happy hour softens the tab while you mix and match plates. It suits diners who enjoy bright spices and thoughtful pairings more than large entrees. Families can make this work with simple bites like pita, hummus, brioche grilled cheese, and mild skewers. There is no kids menu, and it is a wine-forward spot, so earlier visits are best. If your child prefers familiar flavors, lean into bread-and-dip options and skip the spicier plates.
At a Glance
- Distinctive Mediterranean-leaning wine list with helpful guidance
- Flavorful Middle Eastern small plates with several vegetarian options
- Happy hour value ($9 glasses) enhances affordability
- Portions are small relative to price; proteins feel modest
- Service can be slow or curt at busy times; upstairs ambiance feels detached
What Sets It Apart
- Mediterranean-leaning wine list
- Creative Middle Eastern small plates
- Happy hour value
What People Love
- Discovering new Mediterranean wines
- Warm, candlelit atmosphere
- Standout lamb and halloumi when on form
- Happy hour pricing that encourages exploring
Points of Concern
- Protein dishes and some small plates feel undersized for the cost according to several diners
- Service speed dips during happy hour; occasional curt interactions reported
- Upstairs seating can feel disconnected from the main room energy
- One report of dirty wine glasses with a dismissive response
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average Cost$44-$61 per person
ReservationsRecommended
What to Order
- Pair Burrata ($20) or Eggplant Carpaccio ($18) with a crisp Assyrtiko or similar minerally white
- Match Shawarma ($19) with a spicy-leaning red or fuller white to balance amba and sumac
- Finish with Baklava Cheesecake ($10) alongside a dessert wine or fortified pour if available
Perfect For
- Pre- or post-Lincoln Center drinks with bites
- Cozy date night exploring new wine regions
- Girls night happy hour small-plate crawl
- Casual catch-up where sharing plates fits the mood
Location Insights
Area: Bustling Upper West Side stretch near Lincoln Center; cultured crowd, pre- and post-show stops.
Safety: Well-trafficked and well-lit avenue; generally safe with steady foot traffic.
Nearby: Near Lincoln Center, Central Park access, theaters, and residential buildings; strong evening and weekend flow.
Lincoln SquareLincoln Square is a lively sub-area of the Upper West Side centered around the Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts. The dining scene here includes upscale restaurants, trendy cafes, and casual spots catering to theatergoers and local residents, creating a sophisticated yet approachable social atmosphere.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday16:00–00:00
Tuesday16:00–01:00
Wednesday16:00–01:00
Thursday16:00–01:00
Friday15:00–01:00
Saturday14:00–01:00
Sunday14:00–22:00
Available: Reservations, Outdoor seating
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