About
Welcome to Zaky Zak's, the culinary gem nestled on E Fowler Ave in Tampa, Florida. This eatery, known for its vibrant flavors and authentic Middle Eastern fare, has rapidly become a beloved destination for food enthusiasts in the area. Its name, "Zaky," translates to "delicious," and this establishment lives up to its moniker with an array of dishes that promise a satisfying experience for every palate.
Upon entering Zaky Zak's, you are greeted by a welcoming ambiance that embodies the heart of Middle Eastern culture. The menu is a delightful journey through the region's culinary landscape. Signature offerings like the Chicken Shawarma Bowl and the Falafel Pita shine brightly, each showcasing fresh ingredients and bold flavors. The shawarma, juicy and expertly seasoned, is a must-try that has garnered rave reviews from patrons like Jennifer Helton, who praised its authenticity and the flavorful explosiveness of her meal.
Complementing the main dishes are enticing sides that elevate the dining experience. The Zaky Fries Basket, priced at $7.99, offers a crispy and golden-frightful experience. If you’re seeking something lighter, the Salad Mix Plate garnished with shawarma toppings is both refreshing and fulfilling, making it ideal for a quick lunch or a wholesome snack.
Don't overlook their dessert selection, particularly the Caramel Cashew Baklava, which wraps flaky phyllo dough around a rich cashew and caramel filling, drizzled with honey to create a decadent treat. Customer Yazan Hamdan describes it as a ‘must-try’ alongside their delicious hummus, enhancing the overall experience at Zaky Zak's.
What makes Zaky Zak's truly remarkable is not just the food but the inviting spirit of its staff. The owner’s passion shines through as they share insights about the dishes and ingredients, creating a personal touch that enhances every visit. As Ella R enthused, dining at Zaky Zak's feels special, prompting some guests to travel considerable distances just to indulge in their favorites—like the Steak Saj and that coveted garlic sauce.
In the bustling food scene of Tampa, Zaky Zak's stands out as the go-to spot for authentic and delicious Middle Eastern cuisine. Whether you’re stopping by for a quick meal or enjoying a leisurely dinner, Zaky Zak’s promises a flavor-packed experience that is both inviting and affordable. Join the growing number of fans that rave about this restaurant, and allow your taste buds to embark on a delightful adventure that is sure to leave you coming back for more.
“ Come here everytime jm in the Tampa area and it is delicious. I had both their chicken shawarma bowl and sandwich and both were great. Their hummus is awesome. They have good fries and not bad prices also very good baklava. If you feel like eating dessert there is a cold stone right next to it also. Definitely recommend ”
“ I got the Chicken Pita and it was very delicious and filling! The baklava was also very yummy. (it’s pistachio) ”
“ This place was so authentic and yummy and the owner spent some time explaining to us about the different ingredients and “Zaky” means delicious. And it was! I ordered the falafel pita and my friend got the chicken pita and then you get to add your own ingredients and I have to say the flavors and spiciness of mine was right on point. I also got two pieces of the cashew caramel baklava — that was amazing. The interior is not fancy, but it’s clean and the ingredients were fresh and the service was fabulous. If you’re looking for something unique that’s not too expensive this is the place!! A great place for lunch or dinner before you hit some shops nearby. ”
“ The BEST restaurant in Tampa. This is my favorite restaurant and I drive 35 minutes to get food. I LOVE the steak saj and fries. Oh and the garlic sauce is to die for. I always get an extra side of garlic sauce, 10/10. ”
“ Tried their chicken Shawarma and loaded it up with everything on saj bread pressed to crispy goodness, juicy chicken freshly shaved off the spool I mean you can see that thing just juicin' unbelievably tasty. Definitely going to attempt to try everything on the menu. Plus the people were friendly inviting and informative. Best thing to ever replace that atrocious Tijauna Flats that was once there. I'd give these guys a 20 star rating if I could. ”
“ Situated near USF in Tampa, Zacky Zak's delivers an authentic Middle Eastern dining experience that transcends typical fast-casual fare. This establishment has masterfully captured the essence of traditional Middle Eastern cuisine while adding subtle contemporary touches that enhance rather than diminish its authenticity. The beef shawerma stands as a testament to their culinary expertise. The meat, expertly spiced and slow-roasted until tender, exhibits the perfect balance of crispy edges and succulent interior. Each slice carries a complex flavor profile that speaks to careful marination and precise cooking techniques. Wrapped in fresh, house-made pita, it creates a harmonious blend of textures and tastes that sets a new standard for shawerma in the Tampa area. Their falafel deserves equal praise. Unlike the dense, dry versions found elsewhere, Zacky Zak's falafel achieves that elusive combination of crispy exterior and light, herbaceous interior. The chickpea base is enhanced with a thoughtful blend of herbs and spices, resulting in a falafel that could hold its own in any Middle Eastern market. The array of toppings and sauces elevates every dish to new heights. Beyond the standard hummus and tahini, Zacky Zak's offers an impressive selection of house-made condiments. Their garlic sauce delivers a perfect punch of flavor, while their spicy harissa adds depth without overwhelming. The pickled turnips and fresh vegetable options provide bright, acidic notes that cut through richer elements perfectly. The staff's genuine warmth and enthusiasm for sharing their culinary heritage transforms each visit into an engaging cultural experience. Their willingness to guide newcomers through the menu while accommodating regular patrons' preferences creates an welcoming atmosphere that encourages exploration and return visits. For USF students and Tampa residents seeking authentic Middle Eastern cuisine, Zacky Zak's offers an exceptional dining experience that combines traditional recipes with quality ingredients and genuine hospitality. It stands as a shining example of how cultural authenticity and contemporary dining can coexist harmoniously. ”
“ *A Taste of Home!** I recently had the pleasure of dining at **Zaky Zack's Mediterranean Food** and it was an experience to remember. Their shawarma is simply excellent—it's like being back in my home country with every bite. The flavors are authentic, rich, and perfectly balanced. But it wasn't just the food that impressed me. The customer service was top-notch. Everyone was incredibly friendly and attentive, making the entire meal even more enjoyable. If you're looking for a genuine Mediterranean dining experience, look no further than Zaky Zack's. Highly recommended! ”
“ Delicious food! Loved. The chicken shawarma! And loved the baklava! ”