$13 Falafel: Is This New High-End Mediterranean Spot Worth the Price Hike?

It’s been about a month since the Mediterranean restaurant Zon Zon opened in Addison near the intersection of Prestonwood Boulevard and Belt Line Road, next to the very popular Even Coast.

Zon Zon is a new venture from Yela Concepts, the company behind Baboush in the West Village and Darna in Legacy West. All three concepts specialize in Mediterranean cuisine with some light American influences. The menu options and price points remain similar throughout each eatery – all serving elevated renditions of traditional staples. 

Dishes like hummus and falafel might ring a bell, but the American inspiration shines through with dishes like Batatas Harras, which are reminiscent of truffle fries. They also offer classic sides like broccolini, French fries and charred carrots.

Upon entering the establishment, the host welcomes you into a warmly decorated restaurant with wooden details and an exposed kitchen.

We started with an order of falafel ($13) and classic hummus ($10) from the mezze section of the menu, served with fluffy pita bread layered with za’atar (a Middle Eastern spice blend). The pita was still steaming and puffy when it hit our table (though our neighbors was much puffier and we were admittedly jealous), and it paired magically with other starters. The Batatas Harras ($14) are served triple-fried, topped with truffle parmesan and saffron labneh (creamy, aromatic yogurt dip). 

The shape of the falafel threw us at first; usually it comes in walnut-sized balls made solely of mashed chickpeas, but at Zon Zon, they’re a bit bigger and longer (think pecan instead of walnut) and are filled with sumac onions. The outside is crusted with toasted sesame seeds. They weren’t our favorites; perhaps we’re traditionalists.

The steak shawarma ($28) comes with French fries, tahini, a plate of pickled vegetables and laffa, but the presentation reminded us of a typical steak frites plate. The medium-cooked stake was juicy and flavorful, and the house fries were well-seasoned – no complaints here – but definitely not a classic shawarma and fries plate. The side of charred carrots came dressed with thyme, cinnamon and pistachios; these were wonderful.

The menu offers diverse, elevated options for those looking for an upscale experience. Likely a perfect fit for this neighborhood. And with that comes a price hike, especially with dishes known to be affordable and budget-friendly like falafel. The $13 falafel plate comes with just three pieces, which is not exactly a sharing size, nor does it live up to its original reputation as a cheap, filling meal.

Zon Zon is good for people looking to try new and traditional dishes with some upmarket aesthetics. All of Yela Concepts fit that description, and none stand out, but if you like a moody atmosphere, we suggest pulling up a seat at the bar and trying some appetizers. 

Zon Zon, 5455 Belt Line Road, Monday – Sunday 11 a.m. – 10 p.m.