Zula - Englewood: Authentic Mediterranean Delight

Nestled in the heart of Englewood, NJ, Zula is a vibrant Mediterranean restaurant that captures the true essence of Israeli cuisine with authenticity and warmth. Stepping into Zula feels like a brief escape to the lively streets of Tel Aviv, where each dish tells a story of rich tradition and bold, comforting flavors.

Zula’s menu is a treasure trove for lovers of Mediterranean fare. Their Salatim/Mezze selection is a must-try, with the Mezze Platter standing out as a symphony of fresh, vibrant tastes. It combines perfectly creamy hummus, tangy matbucha, spiced Moroccan carrots, and an array of flavorful accompaniments including marinated beets, pickled cabbage, and earthy tabule. Each element bursts with character, inviting diners to savor every bite. The hummus, generously paired with tender chicken, is so richly satisfying that patrons like Melissa Marton have called it “excellent.”

For those visiting with children, the Kids Menu offers crowd-pleasers like Chicken Kebob, Beef Kabab, and Shawarma, all crafted with the same care and authenticity found in the adult offerings. The family-friendly environment at Zula shines through in the enthusiasm of little ones enjoying favorites like falafel and chicken schnitzel, making each visit memorable for all ages.

Lunch specials such as the ribeye shish and lamb kofta rice bowls offer hearty yet balanced meals that marry meat perfectly with fresh grains and fragrant spices. The falafel bowl, in particular, is a standout recommended for its freshness and moist texture—an accolade echoed by fans and first-timers alike. Whether you prefer the bold umami of the salmon bowl or the plant-based delight of the Impossible Kofta bowl, Zula presents a range of choices that feel both adventurous and comforting.

Beyond the food, Zula’s atmosphere is casual yet inviting, a true reflection of a bustling neighborhood spot where authenticity reigns. The restaurant’s BYO policy adds a relaxed, unpretentious layer to the dining experience, encouraging guests to bring their favorite beverages to complement the meal. Guests also frequently mention the thoughtful, attentive service—extra bread for the road, warm smiles, and genuine care—even during busy family visits.

The kosher kitchen means Zula stands as a rare gem in the area, allowing community members to share authentic Israeli cuisine without compromise. Regulars like Kevin celebrate its reflection of true Mediterranean balance, avoiding overly salty dishes and focusing instead on harmony of flavors that feel both wholesome and vibrant.

In essence, Zula isn’t just a meal—it’s an experience of cultural authenticity, culinary craftsmanship, and heartfelt hospitality. For those seeking the rich, complex flavors of Israeli food served in a welcoming, unpretentious setting, Zula in Englewood is a beacon of delicious warmth and community spirit that will keep you coming back for more.

Has wheelchair-accessible car park
Has wheelchair-accessible entrance
Has wheelchair-accessible seating
Has wheelchair-accessible toilet

Has outdoor seating
Offers delivery
Offers takeaway
Serves dine-in

Popular for lunch
Popular for dinner
Good for solo dining

Accepts credit cards
Accepts debit cards
Accepts NFC mobile payments
Credit cards

Melissa Marton

06/12/2025

The sampler dip platter was delicious! The falafel and chicken schnitzel were hit with my kids. I thought the hummus with chicken was also excellent. We’ll definitely come back.

Crissibeth Cooper

29/11/2025

Great little Israeli spot with salatim that holds its own against Laser Wolf (iykyk ). Totally unpretentious, just straightforward, delicious food with portions that hit that sweet spot, generous without being overwhelming. The falafel is the best I've ever had, it was actually served super fresh and moist. Our server slipped us extra bread to take home, which was such a thoughtful touch. It’s BYOB (wine must be kosher), which I actually love--and there's a nice wine shop just nearby. The only thing I didn’t 100% love was the plastic glasses, but since there’s no corkage fee I can’t really complain. All in all, feels like the kind of place I’ll be coming back to often.

Yarnin Israel

21/11/2025

This is what Israeli food really tastes like. Dining at Zula felt like being transported back to the streets of Tel Aviv—where every bite is rich with flavor, warmth, and familiarity. From the moment we walked in, we felt welcomed and comfortable. As a kosher restaurant, it's a rare gem where we could enjoy a delicious dinner with friends and still have a conversation—something that’s surprisingly hard to find these days. We started with hummus, a variety of fresh salads, and their locally baked herb bread—absolutely phenomenal. Everything was seasoned perfectly, and the pickles tasted homemade, not store-bought. The falafel balls were a standout: packed with herbs and bursting with flavor, they paired beautifully with the hummus and tahini. For mains, we tried both the beef and lamb kebabs, which were juicy, flavorful, and cooked just right. My daughter ordered the schnitzel, and it came out thin, crispy, and with a coating that was spot-on. Sadly, we didn’t leave room for dessert—but that just means we’ll have to come back. If you're looking for authentic Israeli food that feels like a trip home, Zula is a solid 5/5. Highly recommend!

Ezra Bogopulsky

31/10/2025

Was a really awesome vibe! Food was Israeli. Was real authentic Israeli not just curry. I loved everything!!!

KEVIN

26/10/2025

Dining at Zula in Englewood feels less like visiting a restaurant and more like stepping into a bustling neighborhood spot in Tel Aviv. It is a warm, inviting space that clearly serves as a comfort zone for the local Jewish community, which is always a good sign of authenticity. The food was the highlight—specifically because of what it didn't have: excess salt. Mediterranean cuisine can often be heavy-handed with sodium, but here, dishes like the Matbucha, Marinated Beets, and Pargiot (chicken thighs) were seasoned perfectly to let the fresh ingredients speak for themselves. It felt healthy and "clean" in the best possible way. A crucial note for wine lovers: Zula observes strict Kosher dietary laws. You can bring your own wine, but it must be Mevushal/Kosher (like the Psagot Cabernet Sauvignon we enjoyed). There is a wine shop nearby that carries acceptable bottles, though the selection is somewhat limited, so plan accordingly if you have a specific palate. The atmosphere was lively for a weekday evening, with nearly every table full and a steady stream of takeout orders going out the door. The background music—authentic Israeli tunes—added a lovely layer of immersion to the experience. Logistics were smooth as well; street parking was manageable on a weeknight, and the restrooms were kept spotless. If you are looking for unpretentious, high-quality Mediterranean food in a place that feels alive, Zula is a wonderful find. I am already looking forward to my next visit.

Hadas Newman

14/09/2025

I just wanted to extend a big thank you for the wonderful experience our doctors had at your restaurant at our Noris Medical Dinner Event. The food was beyond expectations, and the service was excellent — we truly appreciate it! It was great working with you!

Marina Braude-Basov

02/09/2025

Food is consistently so so good. It’s our go to spot for the family. This time, we discovered a really good lunch menu as well. Highly recommend

Greg Spektor

26/08/2025

This was our third visit, and once again the food was fantastic and the service exceptional. We came with our one-year-old, and our waitress was incredibly sweet and patient with her. Even after our son made a mess, she remained so kind and understanding. The hummus was amazing—as was everything else! Highly recommend.