Delicious Eats at Zaytinya

I have always liked Jose Andres restaurants in Washington, DC – they balance consistency with seasonality with delicious flavors.  As I have moved towards eating completely gluten-free and dairy-free (and mostly vegan, particularly when I eat out) for health reasons, I am particularly grateful that my three favorite Jose Andres restaurants (Oyamel, Jaleo and Zaytinya) feature allergen-friendly menus.  And more importantly, the wait-staff at all three restaurants is actually informed on said allegen-friendly menus.    

The last time husband and I went to Zaytinya, the only reservation available was 5.45pm, but it did mean great light for the photos.  In addition to the gigante beans with dill, kale and roasted tomatoes  (pictured above), my meal consisted of the following:

Baba ghanoush, which was the perfect balance of smoky and garlicky:

For gluten-free diner, Zaytinya’s provides cucumber slices to sub for the pita:

I also had the stuffed eggplant, which was warm and comforting.

And the seasonal mushrooms (with almonds and dates), which tied with the gigante beans as my favorite dish of the evening.

I should not be trying to pick favorites though. Everything was delicious.  While there are not a ton of items on the gluten-free menu and the dairy-free menu that are also vegan, there are enough for a most satisfying meal.  Additionally, all Jose Andres restaurants rotate menu items seasonally, so that provides for variety as well.  The allergen-friendly menus are available upon request, and list regular menu items that fit allergenic parameters.   Jaleo has its allergen-friendly menus available online, but  I do not believe that such menus are available online on the Oyamel and Zaytinya sites,  but when I have called with questions prior to my visits, the staff has always been very helpful.