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Zaytinya, Washington, DC

Zaytinya

4.7
4.7
17500 Reviews
$31 to $50
Mediterranean
Under the direction of celebrated chef José Andrés and his ThinkFoodGroup team, Zaytinya offers an innovative mezze menu inspired by Turkish, Greek and Lebanese cuisines served up in a sleek and modern setting. Building on Jose’s deep knowledge of Mediterranean cooking and years of research and travel, the menu features shared small plates of authentic and innovative fare, creative cocktails, and unique Mediterranean wines, making Zaytinya one of the most exciting restaurants in Washington DC.

Make a reservation

2 people

7:00 PM


Booked 79 times today

Additional information

  • Dining style

    Casual Elegant

  • Cuisines

    Mediterranean, Turkish

  • Hours of operation

    Mon–Thu 11:30 am–11:00 pm Fri 11:30 am–12:00 am Sat 11:00 am–12:00 am Sun 11:00 am–10:00 pm

  • Phone number

    (202) 638-0800

  • Payment options

    AMEX, Discover, MasterCard, Visa

  • Dress code

    Smart Casual

  • Executive chef

    John Heineke

  • Private party facilities

    Zaytinya offers special menus and private party spaces of any size and style to suit the needs of you and your guests. From our soaring mezzanine space, to the intimate bar and “blue room,” to the spacious but secluded terrace, we have the ideal space for your party. For larger events of 100-300 people, we even offer full or partial buy-out of the restaurant.

What 17,500 people are saying

Overall ratings and reviews

Reviews can only be made by diners who have eaten at this restaurant

4.7
4.7 based on recent ratings
  • 4.8Food
  • 4.6Service
  • 4.6Ambience
  • 4.4Value

NoiseModerate

Loved For

  • Washington, D.C. Area

    Mediterranean

  • District of Columbia

    Mediterranean

Sort by

  1. VikasMG

    London

    31 reviews

    vip
    4.0

    31 reviews

    Dined 3 days ago

    overall4food5service5ambience4
    It's been many months since we've been to Zaytinya and we were glad we went again. The food tasted a lot better than the last few times we were there and the service was excellent as well. The menu has evolved a little and is even better than before though we wished that the vegetarian options had also been improved as much. We were a large group of seven varying in age from 3 to 70+ and the experience was pleasant and delicious for all.
  2. LauraG

    Washington DC

    42 reviews

    vip
    5.0

    42 reviews

    Dined 4 days ago

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Zaytinya is one of my favorite restaurants in DC. It never fails to please.
  3. MargaretD

    Phoenix

    30 reviews

    vip
    5.0

    30 reviews

    Dined 4 days ago

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    As always, everything about this restaurant demonstrates great organization and class. From the maître d' to the bus staff delivering warm Mediterranean bread, to the friendly and knowledgeable wait staff are perfectly, almost balletically coordinated. Hussein was super friendly and helpful. Our choices were carefully prepared and brought out in a comfortable sequence so that everything was the optimal temperature. Artful presentation of even the simplest items. Wine choices were superb. The Greek apricot yogurt topped off a marvelous meal. I've been coming here since it opened, and it's 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 in my book!
  4. Chris

    Sacramento

    388 reviews

    vip
    5.0

    388 reviews

    Dined 7 days ago

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    One of our favorite restaurants anywhere. Staff is super helpful in selection of dishes and masterful in spacing the meal so that the small plates come at a good pace. The three of us had ten separate dishes and all were spectacular. Our favorites were the Spanakopita, the Sea Scallops, and the Adana Kebab...and of course the Brussels Afelia. Just can't say enough about this wonderful place.
  5. CarolM

    New York Area

    20 reviews

    vip
    4.0

    20 reviews

    Dined on May 20, 2023

    overall4food5service3ambience3
    We arrived at 7:32 - it was a rainy night, traffic was horrible and we were coming cross town from my daughters graduation. My reservation was posted to my calendar as 7:30, but the hostess said it was for 7:15 and dismissed me. Since the calendar gets posted directly from Open Table I don’t know how this occurred. She was rude and indifferent and seemingly not interested in helping. Thankfully the other hostess resolved things. We’ve been to your restaurant many times…We selected Zaytinya because it’s her favorite. The initial hostess put a damper on the evening because of her attitude.
  6. Jose

    New York Area

    33 reviews

    vip
    5.0

    33 reviews

    Dined on May 20, 2023

    overall5food5service4ambience5
    Food is a mixture of Greek, Turkish and Lebanese cuisines. Hummus with lamb and Babaganoush were delicious, as well as octopus and branzino. Good service and great ambience, just a little too noisy.
  7. OpenTable Diner

    Washington DC

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on May 18, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    One of the better restaurants in downtown DC. The Mediterranean cuisine is outstanding
  8. Chris

    Washington DC

    20 reviews

    4.0

    20 reviews

    Dined on May 15, 2023

    overall4food4service4ambience4
    I love Zantinya. That said, it is very frustrating calling the restaurant. The phones are rarely answered. I have called prior to the restaurant opening and during nonpeak hours, there is no answer. I was finally able to get my call answered when I called on a Saturday at 11 pm. Totally unacceptable. It appears that more staff is needed. I was also kept on hold for 30 minutes when I tried to place a carry out order. Suggest making your reservations on Open Table to reduce your anxiety. Restaurant does not have handicap buttons on the doors opening up into the restaurant. I am currently using a walker after breaking my leg. Safe to say, it was a challenge to open the door. Luckily, a waiter from outside saw me struggling and came over to help me.
  9. arthur

    Washington DC

    47 reviews

    vip
    5.0

    47 reviews

    Dined on May 14, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience3
    Great meal, great service. Would definitely go again.
  10. OpenTable Diner

    Washington DC

    4 reviews

    vip
    3.0

    4 reviews

    Dined on May 14, 2023

    overall3food3service1ambience4
    Waiter had hard time to understand our order. Food was OK; Mediterranean brunch and in particular Turkish breakfast is notorious; not sure why there were not more selections. It was an ordinary menu.
  11. Adelle

    Richmond

    7 reviews

    5.0

    7 reviews

    Dined on May 13, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    We always love this restaurant. It’s actually my 8-year-old daughter’s favorite restaurant for fancy mommy-daughter luncheons. She’s been addicted to the brussel sprouts since she was 4. :) We love it and keep coming back any time we happy to be in the city for a day. It’s consistently excellent, kind servers, and a comfy setting. We love the little corner tables with banquettes and pillows.
  12. Turtle

    Washington DC

    18 reviews

    vip
    5.0

    18 reviews

    Dined on May 12, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Best side car in town. The food is delicious. It comes out of the kitchen quickly so considering that when ordering. The quieter tables are in the bar area due to the lower ceiling.
  13. bluewave

    Washington DC

    108 reviews

    vip
    5.0

    108 reviews

    Dined on May 12, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    We ate outside, so the noise level refers to the outdoor covered patio, which was a really appealing area. The food -- grilled octopus, taramosalata, scallops, asparagus special, crispy brussels sprouts, imam biyaldi (eggplant), sweet Turkish coffee, and Turkish coffee chocolate cake -- were all fantastic, as were the Turkish Storm and Persepolis cocktails. A totally enjoyable birthday dinner. Made even better by finally using the gift certificate the Jose Andres Group gave in return for contributions to their efforts to support restaurant workers at the beginning of the pandemic and, right before dinner, a coincidental first sighting of the large painting of Jose Andres on exhibit at the Portrait Gallery.
  14. Michael

    Detroit

    29 reviews

    5.0

    29 reviews

    Dined on May 12, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    I had dinner with my daughters for my grandson We had a wonderful time.
  15. JoeT

    Washington DC

    41 reviews

    vip
    5.0

    41 reviews

    Dined on May 10, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience4
    The food was all good. The service was very efficient.
  16. OpenTable Diner

    New England

    2 reviews

    2.0

    2 reviews

    Dined on May 7, 2023

    overall2food1service3ambience3
    My food was cold and tasteless. I was very disappointed.
  17. jsak

    New York Area

    70 reviews

    vip
    5.0

    70 reviews

    Dined on May 6, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Zaytinya is a wonderful find in DC. The Mediterranean flair is great. It's nice to be able to taste different things with the small plate servings. The atmosphere is wonderful.
  18. Bill

    San Francisco

    4 reviews

    4.0

    4 reviews

    Dined on May 6, 2023

    overall4food5service3ambience2
    Food was great and the service staff was very nice. Was awkward sitting at a table essentially in the lobby about 5 steps away from check in. They stacked the tables not just next to each other but two deep as well so wait staff held trays above your head to reach the table behind you. Service was efficient to a fault as it felt like they wanted to clear you out asap. But the food was great and we would love to try more.
  19. OpenTable Diner

    New York Area

    1 review

    2.0

    1 review

    Dined on May 6, 2023

    overall2food2service1ambience5
    They didn’t clear our plates. Server seemed very distracted. When we asked for dessert menu, they gave us just one menu. We had to ask for the plates to be cleared. Everything had too much cheese. Fried fritters were mushy For how well rated this place is, it was a huge disappointment.
  20. BridgetC

    Richmond

    4 reviews

    5.0

    4 reviews

    Dined on May 5, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Especially enjoyed the chicken youvetsi, the crispy brussels afelia, and the cauliflower tiganites
  21. worldtraveller

    Atlanta Metro

    193 reviews

    vip
    5.0

    193 reviews

    Dined on May 3, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience4
    Perhaps one of the best restaurants in DC (for me tied with Rasika).. the food is Mediterranean with Turkish and middke eastern flavors. Everything is delicious although they are world famous for their Brussels sprouts! The restaurant is extremely accommodating for food allergies and staff are patient. Chris the chef came out to make sure everything ordered was safe! The only criticism is the wine list is unnecessarily overpriced. But definitely eat here you will love it
  22. AnnaE

    Washington DC

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on May 3, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    It was all fabulous but the ambient noise is quite high in there.
  23. OpenTable Diner

    Philadelphia

    3 reviews

    5.0

    3 reviews

    Dined on April 29, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    We had an amazing dinner. Nothing we did not like. The Maia minthe cocktail is so refreshing and delightful. The crispy eggplant was cravable with the crispy outside and soft warm inside.
  24. Mary

    Washington DC

    10 reviews

    vip
    4.0

    10 reviews

    Dined on April 29, 2023

    overall4food4service4ambience3
    Not having the bar available due to private party caused many to wait for their tables outside in rain and in very noisy crowded entrance. Noise level seemed to be higher than usual
  25. OpenTable Diner

    Washington DC

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on April 28, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    My best friend and I love Zatinya and hadn’t visited each other in a long time. This was the perfect place to celebrate our weekend together.
  26. DaisyC

    San Francisco

    19 reviews

    vip
    4.0

    19 reviews

    Dined on April 24, 2023

    overall4food4service4ambience4
    Great vibe n tastings with fab drinks. Always a fun place with crowds n light fare
  27. DianeS

    Indiana

    18 reviews

    4.0

    18 reviews

    Dined on April 23, 2023

    overall4food5service5ambience4
    Love this place. Try to come every time I’m in DC.
  28. AC0619

    Chicago

    4 reviews

    vip
    5.0

    4 reviews

    Dined on April 23, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Food was delicious! Great flavors! Service was impeccable and our server did a great job accommodating food allergy. Highly recommend!
  29. JessicaA

    Washington DC

    2 reviews

    3.0

    2 reviews

    Dined on April 22, 2023

    overall3food4service3ambience3
    I love Zaytinya and have been there a lot. Maybe it was understaffing but service was lacking this past Saturday - some of our dishes didn't come and we felt fairly neglected. Knowing that this experience can be a 10/10 made our 6/10 extra disappointing.
  30. OpenTable Diner

    New York Area

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on April 22, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Anna was a wonderful server. The ambiance is modern and Mediterranean.
  31. MarieL

    Washington DC

    14 reviews

    vip
    5.0

    14 reviews

    Dined on April 22, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Zaytinya is always a good choice for dining. The establishment is welcoming, food is always good, and the ambience inclusive. Never disappoints!
  32. JenT

    Baltimore

    35 reviews

    vip
    5.0

    35 reviews

    Dined on April 21, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Absolutely outstanding from the food to the service. Octopus Santorini was a favorite. Will return
  33. OpenTable Diner

    Washington DC

    5 reviews

    5.0

    5 reviews

    Dined on April 21, 2023

    overall5food5service4ambience4
    The food was top notch. I was sad I was too full to try more! The server was super friendly and kept our drinks and plates full!
  34. CherylG

    Washington DC

    4 reviews

    5.0

    4 reviews

    Dined on April 21, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    This is my favorite go-to restaurant in DC. The food is always fresh and flavorful and the service is always friendly and professional. The cauliflower and fried eggplant were a nice surprise. The scallops and lamb were delicious as always. You should always have a reservation.
  35. OpenTable Diner

    Glasgow

    7 reviews

    vip
    3.0

    7 reviews

    Dined on April 17, 2023

    overall3food3service4ambience3
    Nothing special
  36. OpenTable Diner

    Indiana

    1 review

    vip
    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on April 17, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Zaytinya never disappoints. Great food, great service, fun atmosphere.
  37. GProductions

    Washington DC

    10 reviews

    vip
    4.0

    10 reviews

    Dined on April 17, 2023

    overall4food4service4ambience4
    Always a "go to" when you want interesting fresh Mediterranean food in sharable Tapas style. Great menu and reasonably priced.
  38. Pamela

    Washington DC

    42 reviews

    5.0

    42 reviews

    Dined on April 16, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    We've never had a bad time at Zaytinya. Attentive servers, terrific food, nice decor. It's one of our favorite places to go for a special occasion.
  39. SWDC

    Washington DC

    3 reviews

    5.0

    3 reviews

    Dined on April 16, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Greek Easter was a blast! The four course menu they offered was very special and everything was very tasty. The staff was great too. Thank you for a great experience.
  40. OpenTable Diner

    Washington DC

    1 review

    vip
    2.0

    1 review

    Dined on April 16, 2023

    overall2food5service1ambience5
    We have been coming here for 10+ years and food is excellent. The server we had was so bad. He was so unhappy to serve us and he made no effort to hide it. He came to the table after multiple efforts made to get his attention . Another server even attempted to help us while we wait. Finally came and did not say a word to us,or introduce himself. Went right to taking drink order from the other server that was attempting to help and run out. It took forever before he came back to take the food order. The only thing he said was do you know what you want while completely avoiding any face to face conversation. He looked away the whole time he took the food order The place was busy as always but too busy is a poor excuse for such a poor service and bad attitude.

Safety precautions

  • Screening

    • Staff is vaccinated

FAQs

Zaytinya does offer delivery in partnership with Uber Eats. Zaytinya also offers takeout which you can order by calling the restaurant at (202) 638-0800.

Zaytinya is rated 4.7 stars by 17500 OpenTable diners.

Yes, you can generally book this restaurant by choosing the date, time and party size on OpenTable.

Make a reservation

2 people

7:00 PM


Booked 79 times today
Google Map for Zaytinya

701 9th St NW, Washington, DC 20001

Additional information

  • Cross street

    G St NW

  • Neighborhood

    Penn Quarter

  • Hours of operation

    Mon–Thu 11:30 am–11:00 pm Fri 11:30 am–12:00 am Sat 11:00 am–12:00 am Sun 11:00 am–10:00 pm

  • Cuisines

    Mediterranean, Turkish

  • Dining style

    Casual Elegant

  • Dress code

    Smart Casual

  • Parking details

    Public Lot

  • Public transit

    Gallery Place, Metro Center

  • Payment options

    AMEX, Discover, MasterCard, Visa

  • Executive chef

    John Heineke

  • Additional

    Takeout

  • Phone number

    (202) 638-0800

  • Private party facilities

    Zaytinya offers special menus and private party spaces of any size and style to suit the needs of you and your guests. From our soaring mezzanine space, to the intimate bar and “blue room,” to the spacious but secluded terrace, we have the ideal space for your party. For larger events of 100-300 people, we even offer full or partial buy-out of the restaurant.

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