New Tel Aviv Restaurant 'Zati' Criticized for High Prices and Unfulfilled Promise

A new restaurant in Tel Aviv, named 'Zati,' has been described as the most expensive meal the reviewer has eaten this year, failing to live up to its "atmosphere" genre hype. The reviewer posits that while the restaurant aims for a "wow" effect with its flashy design, loud music, and DJ, the food and service do not justify the exorbitant prices.

Located on the Tel Aviv promenade, 'Zati' is the latest venture from four childhood friends, three of whom are from Jerusalem, who have previously opened successful restaurants. The venue itself is designed with a dramatic, predominantly red aesthetic, featuring lighting effects, a central bar, and a DJ and drummer setup. However, the reviewer noted a lack of clarity regarding the design concept, as neither the hostess nor the waiter could explain it.

The menu features extremely high prices, with appetizers ranging from approximately 100 to 170 shekels and main courses from 168 to 350 shekels. Dishes like falafel croquettes and a "Jerusalem ceviche" were criticized for being overpriced and lacking a clear culinary justification for their names or high cost. The reviewer found the falafel croquettes to be overly salty, overpowering the tuna, and the ceviche's "Jerusalem" element to be unclear.

Main courses also received mixed reviews. A syn-steak was cooked properly and deemed tasty, but a sea bass fettuccine dish was described as a significant failure, with an unbalanced, aggressive lemon flavor in the pasta and a minuscule portion. The reviewer also noted issues with presentation, including small plates and a broken one.

Despite the criticisms, the reviewer acknowledged the restaurant's investment and the proven track record of its owners. However, 'Zati' is deemed to require significant refinement, and the reviewer concluded that they are likely not the target audience for this type of establishment.