We love the hummus. We get with no added oil. We also love the Muhammara. You can get a side of raw veggies for dipping. Ask server for vegan menu. Everything is good. One of our favorite places to eat vegan. No reservations. Plan accordingly.
Abhi B
Update to this visit Initial visit was about 2 years ago and absolutely wonderful. We visited again today and very disappointed with the food. Each dish lacked something, the bread was stale and microwaved, the potato dish was absolutely terrible, the amazing chicken from last time was overcooked and rubbery, even the green sauce that's their signature had no flavor. Seems like the restaurant lost it's touch and it was more evident given it was almost empty! Last visit we waited 2 hours, this visit almost every table was empty and the wait staff seen sitting around. Unfortunately this will he our last visit to Zhug and thankfully Amba is still good.
A definite must try in Cleveland! We had a 2 hour wait to get in as they don't take reservations, the wait was definitely worth it. We tried 8 small plates and almost each one was perfect. The octopus, cod, fried chicken were excellent. The vibe inside and the service was great as well. I think it's best to visit this restaurant on the weekdays and show up at 4pm so you don't have a crazy long wait. The cocktails were good too. We will definitely visit again but probably on a weekday!
emma penney
this is genuinely the best meal i have had in a long time 🥹 we had the burnt onion hummus, brussel sprouts, zaatar carrots, falafel, shrimp, beef kofte, and lamb. each of the items were plated beautifully and paired with the perfect flavors. there were 3 people at our table and this was the perfect amount of food(for us at least!) so i would recommend ordering about 2-3 items per person. the quality of the ingredients used is extremely apparent in the flavor of every single dish and i can’t wait to come back to try even more from the menu! thank you zhug for a wonderful meal and experience 🤗
PlantRich
Loved everything about this place: cuisine, mixology, service, and vibe. Clearly marked vegan and vegetarian items. chef put feta on the side to make a vegan moussaka for me and also substituted olive oil in the mejadra for my wife.
Ido Tzhori
Hmhmhmhmmmmm yummy yummy yummy. My tummy is so full and satisfied. This is a buy! Go to Zhug if you want a Z-hug!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Erika
Everything here is delicious and the service is great. I can't recommend this place enough.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Syed Junaid Rahman
Went there with friends and family found the food and service excellent Atmosphere was great as well
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Eggplant Moussaka, Butter Roasted Shrimp, Honey Roasted Beets, Saffron and Date Braised Lamb
Emily Bean
The octopus was amazing. Loved the muhammara and mejadra rice. The cauliflower was just ok. Highly recommend zhug 1 cocktail.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Smoked Octopus
Emily Ann
Food was okay, not seasonal though, which I would expect from a heavily plant based menu. Was there with a group of 5 so we tried about 12 dishes. Some good and well seasoned, some not. My cocktail was not great, no discernible flavor. Dessert was chocolate cheesecake and a vanilla ice cream sundae, which did not fit with the rest of the menu.
Atmosphere: 3
Food: 3
Service: 3
Brenna R
The restaurant was well-decorated and service was good. My group and I ordered around 9 dishes and several cocktails. The cocktails were all very yummy! Every dish was good except for our octopus, which tasted kind of like hotdogs for some reason. But it’s okay.
Overall a great experience, would return and order more white beans (breakout star of the night!) instead of the octopus.
Superb food and drinks, on the pricey side. But worth it. 4 of us had lunch here, 8 dishes and 2 drinks came to $200. The Muhammara was excellent. Octopus was superb and tender. Eggplant was good. Lamb was excellent. We got there at 5 PM on a Saturday and by 6 pm the place was packed. For a good reason.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
David
Did not expect musch as Middle Eastern isn't my thing but my wife wanted to go, I was very surprised....in a couple ways:
1) Atmosphere: room was extremely loud, hard to hear and hold a conversation, had to talk loudly to converse which compounded the issue, it's the nature of the room, nothing that would keep me from coming back
2) Service: Service was fair, took a bit to get a server, and order drinks, had to ask for re-fills, server was spot on with food suggestions, all in all she did a fair job
3) Food: We ordered (8) different things to share between two people, the food was very good , I was pleasantly surprised with the flavors, however......two people, (8) food selections and (1) piece of bread (pita) to split between the two of us for the entire meal, (1) piece of pita? This was gone halfway thgrough the hummus which was the first thing to come out, our server asked if we would like more bread , we said yes, it never came out, sometime later she asked again if we would like more bread, we said yes, it never came out. As we were packing leftovers we asked if we could get some bread (pita) to take with it, (1) piece was brought out and we were charged $2.50 for it.
So while the food was exceptional, very exceptional I would say for the price we paid which was well over $250.00 for two people they could be a little less stingy with the bread which I believe to be an integral part of Middle Eastern Cuisine
Atmosphere: 3
Food: 5
Service: 4
Ashya Majied
Really great tapas and small bites. Like it feels like everyday luxury as far as the taste. The atmosphere is very vibey... and cool kid chic. Great for a date, dinner with the girls or anyone. They also have tasty non-alcoholic drinks which is a bonus! I've been three times and have never been disappointed.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Michelle Salloum
My daughter and I have been to Zhug many times. Always delicious. Service is always fantastic. Staff is wonderful. The atmosphere is comfortable and classy. The cocktails are a feast for the eyes and the palette. The mocktails are also amazing! If you love to share small plates with friends and family this is your destination! Enjoy!!!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
King King
Zhug in Cleveland Heights is a culinary gem that highlights the vibrant flavors and rich traditions of the Middle East and Mediterranean. From the moment you enter, the warm and inviting atmosphere sets the stage for a memorable dining experience. The modern yet cozy decor creates a lively ambiance, making it an ideal spot for both casual lunches and celebratory dinners.
The menu at Zhug is a celebration of fresh ingredients, focusing on seasonal and locally sourced produce. Starting with the appetizers, the mezze platter is a must-try, featuring creamy hummus, silky baba ganoush, and zesty tabbouleh, all served with warm, fluffy pita bread. The hummus stands out with its high-quality tahini and a drizzle of olive oil, while the baba ganoush offers a delightful smoky flavor.
Another highlight is the crispy cauliflower, seasoned to perfection and served with a tangy tahini sauce. The roasted cauliflower is golden and tender, making it a delicious and healthy option. For spice lovers, the zhug sauce, made from fresh herbs and chilies, adds a vibrant kick that can enhance any dish.
Moving on to the main courses, the lamb shawarma is exceptional, featuring marinated lamb that is slow-cooked until tender and served in a warm pita with fresh vegetables and garlic sauce. The robust flavors, with hints of cumin and coriander, create a harmonious blend of textures and tastes.
Seafood enthusiasts will enjoy the grilled octopus, expertly prepared and seasoned, resulting in a tender, smoky dish served with a refreshing citrus salad. The contrast of flavors is superb and perfect for warm days.
Vegetarian options abound, and the stuffed eggplant is a standout. Roasted and filled with a savory mixture of rice, lentils, and spices, then drizzled with tangy tomato sauce, this dish is visually stunning and bursting with flavor.
For something unique, try the khachapuri, a Georgian cheese bread filled with a blend of cheeses and topped with a perfectly cooked egg. It’s a comforting and indulgent choice that’s great for sharing.
To finish your meal, the baklava is a sweet delight, featuring layers of flaky pastry, chopped nuts, and honey syrup. Rich yet not overly sweet, it’s the perfect way to end your dining experience, especially when paired with a cup of strong Arabic coffee or mint tea.
The service at Zhug is attentive and knowledgeable, with staff eager to share recommendations and insights about the menu. Their welcoming demeanor enhances the overall experience.
In summary, Zhug in Cleveland Heights is a delightful destination that offers an extensive menu filled with fresh, flavorful dishes inspired by Middle Eastern and Mediterranean cuisine. Whether you indulge in the mezze platter, grilled octopus, or lamb shawarma, every dish reflects the care and passion of the kitchen. For locals and visitors alike, Zhug is a must-visit for a truly memorable dining experience.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Smoked Octopus, Crispy Brussels Sprouts, Butter Roasted Shrimp, Saffron and Date Braised Lamb, Cod Cakes, Hummus
We love the hummus. We get with no added oil. We also love the Muhammara. You can get a side of raw veggies for dipping. Ask server for vegan menu. Everything is good. One of our favorite places to eat vegan. No reservations. Plan accordingly.
Update to this visit
Initial visit was about 2 years ago and absolutely wonderful. We visited again today and very disappointed with the food.
Each dish lacked something, the bread was stale and microwaved, the potato dish was absolutely terrible, the amazing chicken from last time was overcooked and rubbery, even the green sauce that's their signature had no flavor. Seems like the restaurant lost it's touch and it was more evident given it was almost empty! Last visit we waited 2 hours, this visit almost every table was empty and the wait staff seen sitting around. Unfortunately this will he our last visit to Zhug and thankfully Amba is still good.
A definite must try in Cleveland!
We had a 2 hour wait to get in as they don't take reservations, the wait was definitely worth it. We tried 8 small plates and almost each one was perfect. The octopus, cod, fried chicken were excellent. The vibe inside and the service was great as well. I think it's best to visit this restaurant on the weekdays and show up at 4pm so you don't have a crazy long wait. The cocktails were good too. We will definitely visit again but probably on a weekday!
this is genuinely the best meal i have had in a long time 🥹
we had the burnt onion hummus, brussel sprouts, zaatar carrots, falafel, shrimp, beef kofte, and lamb. each of the items were plated beautifully and paired with the perfect flavors. there were 3 people at our table and this was the perfect amount of food(for us at least!) so i would recommend ordering about 2-3 items per person. the quality of the ingredients used is extremely apparent in the flavor of every single dish and i can’t wait to come back to try even more from the menu! thank you zhug for a wonderful meal and experience 🤗
Loved everything about this place: cuisine, mixology, service, and vibe. Clearly marked vegan and vegetarian items. chef put feta on the side to make a vegan moussaka for me and also substituted olive oil in the mejadra for my wife.
Hmhmhmhmmmmm yummy yummy yummy. My tummy is so full and satisfied. This is a buy! Go to Zhug if you want a Z-hug!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Everything here is delicious and the service is great. I can't recommend this place enough.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Went there with friends and family found the food and service excellent
Atmosphere was great as well
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Eggplant Moussaka, Butter Roasted Shrimp, Honey Roasted Beets, Saffron and Date Braised Lamb
The octopus was amazing. Loved the muhammara and mejadra rice. The cauliflower was just ok. Highly recommend zhug 1 cocktail.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Smoked Octopus
Food was okay, not seasonal though, which I would expect from a heavily plant based menu. Was there with a group of 5 so we tried about 12 dishes. Some good and well seasoned, some not. My cocktail was not great, no discernible flavor. Dessert was chocolate cheesecake and a vanilla ice cream sundae, which did not fit with the rest of the menu.
Atmosphere: 3
Food: 3
Service: 3
The restaurant was well-decorated and service was good. My group and I ordered around 9 dishes and several cocktails. The cocktails were all very yummy! Every dish was good except for our octopus, which tasted kind of like hotdogs for some reason. But it’s okay.
Overall a great experience, would return and order more white beans (breakout star of the night!) instead of the octopus.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 4
Service: 5
Restaurantji Recommends
Superb food and drinks, on the pricey side. But worth it. 4 of us had lunch here, 8 dishes and 2 drinks came to $200. The Muhammara was excellent. Octopus was superb and tender. Eggplant was good. Lamb was excellent. We got there at 5 PM on a Saturday and by 6 pm the place was packed. For a good reason.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Did not expect musch as Middle Eastern isn't my thing but my wife wanted to go, I was very surprised....in a couple ways:
1) Atmosphere: room was extremely loud, hard to hear and hold a conversation, had to talk loudly to converse which compounded the issue, it's the nature of the room, nothing that would keep me from coming back
2) Service: Service was fair, took a bit to get a server, and order drinks, had to ask for re-fills, server was spot on with food suggestions, all in all she did a fair job
3) Food: We ordered (8) different things to share between two people, the food was very good , I was pleasantly surprised with the flavors, however......two people, (8) food selections and (1) piece of bread (pita) to split between the two of us for the entire meal, (1) piece of pita? This was gone halfway thgrough the hummus which was the first thing to come out, our server asked if we would like more bread , we said yes, it never came out, sometime later she asked again if we would like more bread, we said yes, it never came out. As we were packing leftovers we asked if we could get some bread (pita) to take with it, (1) piece was brought out and we were charged $2.50 for it.
So while the food was exceptional, very exceptional I would say for the price we paid which was well over $250.00 for two people they could be a little less stingy with the bread which I believe to be an integral part of Middle Eastern Cuisine
Atmosphere: 3
Food: 5
Service: 4
Really great tapas and small bites. Like it feels like everyday luxury as far as the taste. The atmosphere is very vibey... and cool kid chic. Great for a date, dinner with the girls or anyone. They also have tasty non-alcoholic drinks which is a bonus! I've been three times and have never been disappointed.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
My daughter and I have been to Zhug many times. Always delicious. Service is always fantastic. Staff is wonderful. The
atmosphere is comfortable and classy. The cocktails are a feast for the eyes and the palette. The mocktails are also amazing! If you love to share small plates with friends and family this is your destination! Enjoy!!!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Zhug in Cleveland Heights is a culinary gem that highlights the vibrant flavors and rich traditions of the Middle East and Mediterranean. From the moment you enter, the warm and inviting atmosphere sets the stage for a memorable dining experience. The modern yet cozy decor creates a lively ambiance, making it an ideal spot for both casual lunches and celebratory dinners.
The menu at Zhug is a celebration of fresh ingredients, focusing on seasonal and locally sourced produce. Starting with the appetizers, the mezze platter is a must-try, featuring creamy hummus, silky baba ganoush, and zesty tabbouleh, all served with warm, fluffy pita bread. The hummus stands out with its high-quality tahini and a drizzle of olive oil, while the baba ganoush offers a delightful smoky flavor.
Another highlight is the crispy cauliflower, seasoned to perfection and served with a tangy tahini sauce. The roasted cauliflower is golden and tender, making it a delicious and healthy option. For spice lovers, the zhug sauce, made from fresh herbs and chilies, adds a vibrant kick that can enhance any dish.
Moving on to the main courses, the lamb shawarma is exceptional, featuring marinated lamb that is slow-cooked until tender and served in a warm pita with fresh vegetables and garlic sauce. The robust flavors, with hints of cumin and coriander, create a harmonious blend of textures and tastes.
Seafood enthusiasts will enjoy the grilled octopus, expertly prepared and seasoned, resulting in a tender, smoky dish served with a refreshing citrus salad. The contrast of flavors is superb and perfect for warm days.
Vegetarian options abound, and the stuffed eggplant is a standout. Roasted and filled with a savory mixture of rice, lentils, and spices, then drizzled with tangy tomato sauce, this dish is visually stunning and bursting with flavor.
For something unique, try the khachapuri, a Georgian cheese bread filled with a blend of cheeses and topped with a perfectly cooked egg. It’s a comforting and indulgent choice that’s great for sharing.
To finish your meal, the baklava is a sweet delight, featuring layers of flaky pastry, chopped nuts, and honey syrup. Rich yet not overly sweet, it’s the perfect way to end your dining experience, especially when paired with a cup of strong Arabic coffee or mint tea.
The service at Zhug is attentive and knowledgeable, with staff eager to share recommendations and insights about the menu. Their welcoming demeanor enhances the overall experience.
In summary, Zhug in Cleveland Heights is a delightful destination that offers an extensive menu filled with fresh, flavorful dishes inspired by Middle Eastern and Mediterranean cuisine. Whether you indulge in the mezze platter, grilled octopus, or lamb shawarma, every dish reflects the care and passion of the kitchen. For locals and visitors alike, Zhug is a must-visit for a truly memorable dining experience.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Smoked Octopus, Crispy Brussels Sprouts, Butter Roasted Shrimp, Saffron and Date Braised Lamb, Cod Cakes, Hummus
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