Seemor
ZiZiB+Worth Trying
182 8th Ave, New York, NY 10011
· Mediterranean restaurant, Cocktail bar, Health food restaurant
· 4.6/5 Google (870 reviews)
Reservations · Delivery · Takeout · Outdoor seating
Creative Israeli-Mediterranean spot with standout mezze and cocktails, energetic vibe, good service, but small portions, noise, and recent price hikes dampen value.
Why it gets a B+ for overall quality
ZiZi delivers solid neighborhood dining with standout mezze—eggplant carpaccio and crazy baba showcase fresh, balanced flavors—and warm, engaged service. However, quality variation including oversalting and lukewarm dishes and recent reports of rushing and portion cuts prevent a higher grade. The lively Chelsea setting appeals to groups, but tight tables and noise limit broader appeal.
Restaurant Summary
Zizi hums with lively energy on 8th Avenue, where mezze and martinis fuel an upbeat Chelsea crowd. Guests praise friendly servers and bright flavors—one diner noted, "service was warm and the small plates really sang"—though it can turn very loud as the night builds. The cooking leans modern Israeli with Mediterranean flair: eggplant carpaccio, crazy baba, and tempura artichoke headline a creative mezze lineup, with branzino and overnight lamb for mains. It suits diners who like shareable plates, fresh herbs, and a few spicy accents more than purists seeking strictly traditional fare. Families will find kid-accessible bites like warm pita, fries, shawarma, and mild hummus, but the bustling room may overwhelm little ones at peak times. Early visits or patio seating help; adventurous kids will enjoy nibbling through mezze more than a classic kids menu.
At a Glance
- Standout mezze (eggplant carpaccio, crazy baba) with fresh, balanced flavors
- Friendly, engaged service and a strong cocktail program with happy hour
- Loud room and tight tables at peak; can feel rushed for later seatings
- Portions run small relative to price, especially after recent changes
- Creative/fusion menu - not traditional comfort food
What Sets It Apart
- inventive_israeli_mezze
- lively_cocktail_program
- happy_hour_martinis
- strong_veg_options
What People Love
- Bright, fresh mezze that feel house-made
- Attentive, personable servers
- Balanced, refreshing martinis
- Cozy Mediterranean vibe despite the buzz
Points of Concern
- Noise levels are high after 7 pm; conversation can be difficult
- Recent price hikes with smaller portions reduce perceived value
- Reports of rushed table turns for large party seatings at peak
- Some inconsistency: occasional oversalting or lukewarm plates
- Creative/fusion menu - limited appeal for conservative palates
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average Cost$58-76 per person
ReservationsRecommended
What to Order
- Start with 2-3 mezze (eggplant carpaccio, crazy baba, tempura artichoke), split one main (shawarma, skirt steak 8oz), and add a happy hour martini for value.
Perfect For
- Sharing mezze and cocktails with friends
- A lively date night before a show
- After-work happy hour at the bar
- Vegetable-forward dining with pescatarian options
Location Insights
Area: Lively Chelsea corridor mixing residential, galleries, and nightlife; attracts locals and destination diners.
Safety: Generally safe, well-lit avenues with steady foot traffic late into evenings.
Nearby: Near galleries, boutiques, and 23rd St transit; busy 8th Ave stretch with bars and restaurants.
ChelseaChelsea offers a dynamic dining scene ranging from trendy eateries and upscale restaurants to casual cafes and food markets. The area is lively and culturally rich, with a social atmosphere that caters to both creative types and urban dwellers seeking diverse culinary experiences.
Meatpacking DistrictThe Meatpacking District, adjacent to Chelsea, is known for its upscale dining, fashionable crowd, and vibrant nightlife. It features high-end restaurants and clubs, attracting a trendy and upscale clientele in a stylish urban setting.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday16:00–22:30
Tuesday16:00–22:30
Wednesday16:00–22:30
Thursday16:00–22:30
Friday16:00–23:00
Saturday11:00–23:00
Sunday11:00–22:00
Available: Reservations, Delivery, Takeout, Outdoor seating
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