I don't get to say it all in the video as to not put anyone to sleep but below are my tasting notes and just general thoughts.

I haven't been to Philly in over a decade. Honestly there wasn't much there that I can't get in NYC so there wasn't a draw for me. But the food scene has really exploded over the last 5 years. With more chefs leaving NYC and either going home or seeking more financial friendly options we are starting to see cities like Philly really benefit from it. Not that Zahav is an example of that as Chef MS has build an empire there but its always great to have options instead of like 3-5 places you should try. I look forward to going back and visiting even more spots that I didn't get to. But lets talk this dinner.

The set menu option is great and I envy restaurants that can do this sort of thing. This cuisine really lends itself to that and chef has really leaned into it in the best way possible. I think the tayim option was awesome especially for 75 but id be interested in the other option at 95. Both seem to be very worth it on both ends. From a food cost perspective a lot of the 8-10 things you start with are veggie based. As a restaurant that helps costs a ton. As a consumer there is enough protein at the end of the meal to not let you miss it in any way. Especially when the veggies are as good as they are at Zahav. All the small dishes packed a punch on the flavor scale and along with the bread really a very special combination. You can ask for more bread if you like so don't be shy.

Really the only dish that was a "miss" for me was the tuna with grains and endive. I guess I just wanted to taste the tuna more instead of the grains. That could just be the carnivore sneaking out of me! lol When you eat 15 things and only one falls the tiniest bit short tat is a great average, and again that was my taste.

As a chef I often consider value per experience. there are so many factors that go into "is it worth it" To me Zahav is extremely worth it from a cuisine standpoint, and a value standpoint. I think its hard to be disappointed here in the overall experience. Ill say this as a possible second tick, because they have been doing it for so long and the systems are really in place its easy for the staff to be a little business forward. Sitting at the bar I would have liked a little more engaging and less when you are done someone else is filing in. I appreciate that its a business in the end but I don't think it should automatically feel that way. That being said im often my own entertainment anyway so it doesn't really matter in the end but id be remiss if I left that out I think.

All in all a great experience that I wouldn't hesitate to go back for. Im really looking forward to heading back and trying more spots in general.