TLDR
Vibrant Mediterranean spot in Hudson Yards w/ unique dishes & great for groups. Known for portions, atmosphere & value.
Details
This Mediterranean restaurant in Hudson Yards is a popular choice for various occasions, from birthday dinners to corporate events. It boasts a vibrant atmosphere and is noted for its generous portions and visually appealing space [1]. While many praise its delicious food and value, particularly the prix fixe option, some have noted noise levels and a perceived corporate feel [2], [3]. The restaurant also offers good gluten-free and vegetarian options [4], [5]. However, recent reports indicate a temporary closure due to a kitchen fire, with an estimated reopening time [6], [7].
Food Overview
This Mediterranean restaurant offers a range of dishes, with praise for its unique takes on the cuisine and generous portions. Recommended items include the dips appetizer and mezze [1]. The tasting menu for two has also been described as tasty [2]. The restaurant is noted for having good gluten-free and vegetarian options [3], [4]. Some diners have found the food to be delicious and good value, especially the prix fixe option [5]. However, one review suggested it felt like a corporate or mall restaurant compared to alternatives [6].
Highlights / Recommended
"The dips appetizer and mezze are recommended dishes [1]. The tasting menu for two has also received positive mentions for being tasty [2]."
Customer Sentiment
Overall, customer sentiment leans positive, with many enjoying the lively atmosphere and food. However, some diners have experienced issues with noise, service speed, and a feeling of being rushed or unwelcome [1]. A recent kitchen fire has also led to a temporary closure, impacting recent experiences.
Caveats
The restaurant has experienced a temporary closure due to a kitchen fire and may not reopen immediately. Some diners have reported that the noise level can be high, and service can feel rushed or disappointing.
Reddit Opinions & Reviews
Top Reddit Posts About ZOU ZOU'S
Recent Reddit Mentions
From post: Dinner Near Penn Station Looking For More High
"Zou Zous is mentioned as being located in Manhattan West, near Penn Station."
PositiveFrom post: Dinner Near Penn Station Looking For More High
"Zouzou's is recommended as a dining option near Penn Station."
PositiveFrom post: Spacious Restaurants Anywhere In Manhattan Or
"Zou Zou's is suggested as a place that might have booths, which can lead to a more spacious dining arrangement."
NeutralFrom post: Kid Friendly Rec Near Hudson Yards
"While Zou Zou's is delicious, it is considered too fancy for the original poster's request."
NegativeFrom post: Kid Friendly Rec Near Hudson Yards
"Zou Zou's is temporarily closed due to a kitchen fire and may not be reopening soon."
NegativeFrom post: Kid Friendly Rec Near Hudson Yards
"The user recommends Zou Zou's as a potential restaurant option."
PositiveFrom post: Zou Zou Or Shukette
"Zou Zou is described as prettier and quieter than Shukette, with more consistent food and better spacing. The seating and booths are also considered more comfortable and upscale."
PositiveFrom post: Zou Zou Or Shukette
"The commenter preferred Zou Zou, finding it enjoyable and wanting to return, while not being particularly impressed by Shukette and not planning to return."
PositiveFrom post: Zou Zou Or Shukette
"Zou Zou is strongly advised against."
NegativeFrom post: Zou Zou Or Shukette
"Zou Zou is pretty and has quite good food, but the experience can be negatively impacted by overcrowding and rushed service, especially on weeknights."
NeutralFrom post: Zou Zou Or Shukette
"Both Shukette and Zou Zou are considered great, but Shukette is more casual."
PositiveFrom post: Zou Zou Or Shukette
"Zou Zou is described as having a nice space, possibly great for cocktails, but no specific food mentions were heard from others."
NeutralFrom post: Zou Zou Or Shukette
"Zou Zou is reported to be shut down due to a kitchen fire and expected to reopen in about 30 days."
NeutralFrom post: Zou Zou Or Shukette
"Zou Zou has been closed for several weeks due to a fire."
NeutralFrom post: Zou Zou Or Shukette
"The commenter found Zou Zou to be visually beautiful but disappointing in terms of service."
NegativeFrom post: Zou Zou Or Shukette
"The service at Zou Zou was perceived as lacking during a previous visit, although the food was considered very good and the atmosphere fun."
NeutralFrom post: Zou Zou Or Shukette
"Zou Zou is perceived as corporate and feeling like a shopping mall restaurant, in contrast to Shukette's more 'New York' feel and better food."
NegativeFrom post: Zou Zou Or Shukette
"Zou Zou is considered more attractive, quieter, with more consistent food, better spacing, and more comfortable seating compared to Shukette. The commenter does not understand Shukette's popularity despite visiting both multiple times."
PositiveFrom post: Zou Zou Or Shukette
"Shukette is recommended over Zou Zou due to better food and more reasonable prices, although Zou Zou's room is described as nicer and more festive. Locals generally prefer Shukette."
NegativeFrom post: Pregnant Wife Needs Salmon Aburi Or Torched
"This commenter mentioned Zou Zou, highlighting that they cook all their fish over a cherry wood grill."
Positive