Michael Solomonov's Best Restaurants: A Food Lover's Guide

Hey foodies! Are you ready to dive into the delicious world of Michael Solomonov? If you're a fan of Israeli cuisine or just love incredible food, you've probably heard of this culinary genius. Solomonov isn't just a chef; he's a storyteller, weaving tales of culture and history through his innovative dishes. Let's embark on a flavorful journey through some of his best restaurants, exploring what makes each one a must-visit destination. From the vibrant streets of Philadelphia to your very own kitchen with his cookbooks, Solomonov’s influence on modern Israeli cuisine is undeniable. Prepare your taste buds for an adventure!

Zahav: The Crown Jewel

When you think of Michael Solomonov, you think of Zahav. This isn't just a restaurant; it's an experience. Zahav, meaning "gold" in Hebrew, truly lives up to its name, shining brightly as a beacon of modern Israeli cuisine. Located in Philadelphia, Zahav offers a contemporary take on traditional dishes, creating a dining experience that is both familiar and excitingly new. The ambiance is warm and inviting, making you feel like you've stepped into a bustling Tel Aviv eatery. But what truly sets Zahav apart is the food itself.

The menu is a carefully curated selection of dishes that highlight the diverse flavors of Israel. Start with the mezze, an array of small plates perfect for sharing. The hummus is legendary – incredibly smooth, creamy, and topped with a variety of flavorful additions like tehina, harissa, and lamb ragu. Don't even think about skipping it! Other mezze standouts include the salatim, a vibrant collection of salads featuring seasonal vegetables and unique dressings. Each bite is an explosion of freshness and flavor. For the main course, the pomegranate-glazed duck is a showstopper. The duck is roasted to perfection, with crispy skin and tender, juicy meat. The pomegranate glaze adds a touch of sweetness and acidity, creating a perfectly balanced dish. And, of course, you can't forget the laffa, a soft, chewy flatbread baked in a wood-fired oven. It's the perfect vehicle for scooping up hummus, salads, and other delicious morsels.

Zahav's success isn't just about the food; it's about the entire experience. The service is impeccable, with knowledgeable and friendly staff who are passionate about sharing their love of Israeli cuisine. The wine list features a thoughtfully curated selection of Israeli wines, offering the perfect complement to the meal. The atmosphere is lively and convivial, making it the perfect place to celebrate a special occasion or simply enjoy a night out with friends. Getting a reservation at Zahav can be a challenge, but trust me, it's worth the effort. This is a culinary experience you won't soon forget.

Dizengoff: Hummus Heaven

Okay, hummus lovers, listen up! If you're obsessed with that creamy, dreamy chickpea dip (and who isn't?), then you need to make a pilgrimage to Dizengoff. Named after a bustling street in Tel Aviv, Dizengoff is Michael Solomonov's ode to the simple perfection of hummus. It’s a casual, counter-service spot where the focus is squarely on – you guessed it – hummus. But don't let the simplicity fool you; this is hummus elevated to an art form.

At Dizengoff, the hummus is made fresh daily, using only the finest ingredients. The chickpeas are soaked overnight, then cooked until they're incredibly tender. They're then blended with tehina, lemon juice, garlic, and a touch of spice to create a hummus that is unbelievably smooth, creamy, and flavorful. The toppings change regularly, featuring seasonal ingredients and creative flavor combinations. You might find hummus topped with braised lamb, spiced mushrooms, or roasted vegetables. Each topping adds a unique dimension to the hummus, creating a symphony of flavors and textures. The hummus is served with warm pita bread, perfect for scooping up every last bite. And if you're feeling adventurous, you can add a side of Israeli salad or pickled vegetables to your meal.

Dizengoff is the perfect spot for a quick lunch, a casual dinner, or a late-night snack. The atmosphere is relaxed and inviting, with communal tables that encourage conversation and sharing. The staff is friendly and knowledgeable, always happy to answer questions and offer recommendations. And the best part? It's affordable! You can enjoy a generous portion of hummus with pita bread for under $15. So, if you're craving a taste of authentic Israeli hummus, head to Dizengoff. Your taste buds will thank you.

Federal Donuts: Fried Chicken and Fancy Donuts

Now, for something completely different! Michael Solomonov isn't just about Israeli cuisine; he's also a master of comfort food. And that's where Federal Donuts comes in. This isn't your average donut shop; it's a culinary playground where fried chicken and fancy donuts collide in a glorious explosion of flavor. Federal Donuts has become a Philadelphia institution, known for its unique combination of sweet and savory treats.

The fried chicken at Federal Donuts is legendary. It's brined for hours, then dredged in a secret blend of spices and fried to crispy perfection. The result is chicken that is incredibly juicy, flavorful, and addictive. You can choose from a variety of glazes, including honey-ginger, chili-garlic, and buttermilk ranch. Each glaze adds a unique twist to the chicken, creating a flavor experience that is both familiar and excitingly new. But let's not forget about the donuts! Federal Donuts offers two types of donuts: hot fresh donuts and fancy donuts. The hot fresh donuts are made to order and tossed in a variety of flavored sugars, like cinnamon-brown sugar and strawberry-lavender. The fancy donuts are more elaborate, featuring creative glazes and toppings like chocolate tahini, key lime pie, and peanut butter pretzel.

Federal Donuts is the perfect spot for a quick bite, a weekend brunch, or a sweet treat. The atmosphere is fun and energetic, with colorful decor and friendly staff. The lines can be long, especially on weekends, but trust me, it's worth the wait. This is a culinary experience that is both satisfying and unforgettable.

Laser Wolf: Skewers and Skyline Views

Ready for dinner with a view? Laser Wolf, named after a butcher in Fiddler on the Roof, offers a unique dining experience that combines the flavors of Israeli shipudim (skewers) with stunning skyline views of Philadelphia. Located atop the Roosevelt Hotel, Laser Wolf is Michael Solomonov's take on the traditional Israeli grill, offering a modern and sophisticated dining experience.

The menu at Laser Wolf is centered around shipudim, or skewers of grilled meat, vegetables, and seafood. The skewers are marinated in a variety of flavorful sauces and spices, then grilled over an open flame. You can choose from a variety of options, including lamb, chicken, beef, fish, and vegetables. The skewers are served with a selection of salatim, hummus, and pita bread, creating a complete and satisfying meal. But the real star of the show is the view. From the rooftop perch, you can enjoy panoramic views of the Philadelphia skyline, making it the perfect spot for a romantic dinner or a special occasion.

Laser Wolf is more than just a restaurant; it's an experience. The atmosphere is lively and sophisticated, with a stylish decor and attentive service. The cocktail menu features a creative selection of drinks, perfect for sipping while you enjoy the view. And the food is simply outstanding. The skewers are perfectly grilled, with tender and flavorful meat and vegetables. The salatim are fresh and vibrant, adding a touch of freshness to the meal. And the hummus is, of course, legendary. So, if you're looking for a unique dining experience with stunning views, head to Laser Wolf. You won't be disappointed.

Cookbooks: Bringing Solomonov's Flavors Home

Can't make it to Philadelphia? No problem! Michael Solomonov has also shared his culinary expertise through a series of cookbooks, allowing you to recreate his delicious dishes in your own kitchen. His cookbooks are more than just collections of recipes; they're stories, sharing the history and culture behind Israeli cuisine.

• Zahav: A World of Israeli Cooking: This cookbook is a deep dive into the world of Zahav, featuring recipes for many of the restaurant's most popular dishes, including hummus, salatim, and pomegranate-glazed duck. The book also includes stories about Solomonov's culinary journey and the inspiration behind his cooking.
• Israeli Soul: Easy, Essential, Delicious: This cookbook focuses on the more casual side of Israeli cuisine, featuring recipes for everyday dishes like falafel, shawarma, and shakshuka. The book is perfect for home cooks who want to explore the flavors of Israel without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Federal Donuts: The (Partly) True Story: If you're a fan of fried chicken and donuts, then this cookbook is a must-have. It features recipes for Federal Donuts' signature fried chicken, as well as a variety of donut recipes, from classic glazed donuts to creative flavor combinations.

Solomonov's cookbooks are a great way to bring the flavors of his restaurants into your own home. The recipes are easy to follow, and the ingredients are readily available. Whether you're a seasoned cook or a beginner, you'll find something to love in these books. So, grab a cookbook and start cooking! You'll be amazed at how easy it is to create delicious and authentic Israeli dishes.

In Conclusion: A Culinary Journey Worth Taking

Michael Solomonov has truly made his mark on the culinary world, bringing the vibrant flavors of Israeli cuisine to a wider audience. His restaurants offer a diverse range of dining experiences, from the sophisticated elegance of Zahav to the casual comfort of Federal Donuts. And his cookbooks allow you to recreate his delicious dishes in your own kitchen. So, whether you're planning a trip to Philadelphia or simply looking for new recipes to try, be sure to explore the world of Michael Solomonov. Your taste buds will thank you! From hummus to fried chicken to fancy donuts, Solomonov's culinary empire offers something for everyone. So, go ahead and indulge in a delicious adventure!