Restaurant Reservations - Free • Instant • Confirmed
Learn More
Restaurant Reviews
Find Restaurants in Your Area
Select a Location
Reserve now:

Zest Bistro Reviews List

Zest Bistro

Zest Bistro - A Neighborhood Bistro with a twist....
At Zest, you"ll experience the coming together of 2 great pleasures - great food and outstanding service. Zest is an urban restaurant that takes bistro food to a new level. Every day, our Chefs create contemporary American cuisine with a distinctive twist. Daily specials highlight seasonal freshness and showcase the Chef's innovative talent. Zest pleases your palate with savory entrees & inventive salads & sandwiches. Desserts are all made on the premises, in keeping with what's available seasonally. The wine list is filled with choices, and we offer 1/2 off bottled wines on Tuesday's. In addition to wine and a craft beer selection, Zest offers innovative cocktails, many of which are made with fresh syrups & purees concocted in-house.
See more Zest Bistro details
169 Current Reviews
Summary of Diner Ratings & Reviews
Overall 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
(169 Reviews)
Open Ratings Snapshot
Rating Breakdown 169 reviews
5 stars
(44)
4 stars
(89)
3 stars
(29)
2 stars
(5)
1 star
(2)
Food 
4.1 / 5
(Outstanding) 4.1 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
3.8 / 5
(Very Good) 3.8 / 5
Noise Level
2.3 / 3
Energetic
Filter Reviews By:
Diners classify this restaurant as:
  • neighborhood gem(103)
  • fit for foodies(62)
  • good for groups(37)
  • great for brunch(37)
  • great for lunch(32)
  • kid-friendly(20)
Zest Bistro Reviews List
Review 1 for Zest Bistro
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Mothers Day Surprise!

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/12/2013
Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Great little spot. Food was fresh and full of flavor. Will definitely be back."
Dined on 5/12/2013
Special Features: romantic, neighborhood gem, special occasion
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 2 for Zest Bistro
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Hits all the right notes.

OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/11/2013
Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"I really enjoy our visits to Zest. The food is prepared so well, exactly as described. Most entrees have that dash of verve that makes it a Zest dish. Just enough heat or accent to make the flavors notable. I look forward to the soups offered. I haven't tried a new one I didn't like. The mixed grill is terrific because it offers surf and turf with a chimichurri sauce that accents the entire dish. My partner swears that the blackened salmon bearnaise is the best she has had. The servers are excellent at what they do and not pushy or around too much. We love what Zest offers and will be returning soon."
Dined on 5/11/2013
Special Features: kid-friendly, neighborhood gem
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 3 for Zest Bistro
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/10/2013
Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"We had been last year when going to the Marine Barracks and thought this year the food was better. I would come another time when not going across the street."
Dined on 5/10/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 4 for Zest Bistro
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/03/2013
Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Second time at Zest. My group of 8 was treated well. Everyone pleased with their food and the service"
Dined on 5/03/2013
Special Features: good for groups, neighborhood gem
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 5 for Zest Bistro
Overall rating 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5

Has lunch sandwich specials

OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/01/2013
Food 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Service 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Zest Bistro had good food and service as well as lunch sandwich specials."
Dined on 5/01/2013
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 6 for Zest Bistro
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Excellent Food, Busy Restaurant

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"We had a large party with a wide range of ages and everyone was able to find something they loved. The restaurant was busy and a little loud and seating was not overly comfortable but we had a nice dinner and the desert was to die for. Appetizers were great also. Service was good."
Dined on 04/27/2013
 2010
Special Features: good for groups, kid-friendly
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 7 for Zest Bistro
Overall rating 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5

Well done... maybe too well done...

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"I had been to Zest for dinner and brunch, and was wowed by the flavors, portions, and reasonable pricing. However, on the last visit, it was less than comfortable and something seemed to be amiss between the front desk area and the servers. It was all too noticeable that they were eying out table when one member of our party was running behind. Don't seat us if that's the issue. And if seated, just let us be instead of standing there chatting staring right at us and pointing. A bit obvious, no? So, they lacked a bit of subtlety that night.
Our server was also a little off, and then the bread was crispy. A well done burger, fine, if that's the order. Well done bread? Not so much..."
Dined on 03/30/2013
 2007
Special Features: good for groups, great for brunch
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 8 for Zest Bistro
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Spaghetti carbonara was tasty.

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Spaghetti carbonara was tasty. Pasta was al dente, pork belly pieces were a nice touch, peas tasted fresh, cream sauce wasn't too heavy. Pork belly app was also quite good. My friend has the miso cod, which was very delicious. The broth was on the salty side."
Dined on 04/11/2013
 2010
Special Features: neighborhood gem
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 9 for Zest Bistro
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

My daughter and her friend,

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"My daughter and her friend, 2 San Francisco foodies, are visiting here next month. I am sending them to Zest. They will be impressed!"
Dined on 04/12/2013
 2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, neighborhood gem, great for lunch
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 10 for Zest Bistro
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

The food was good but it took

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"The food was good but it took a long time to get our drinks and then a longer time for our food to come. My dad asked the waiter not to include toast and hashbrowns on his order because he's on a diet but they came out with them anyway. Seemed like they might have a few kinks to work out but overall it was a pleasant experience."
Dined on 04/14/2013
 2012
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 11 for Zest Bistro
Overall rating 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5

Nice (small) outdoor patio.

Food 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Service 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Ambiance 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"Nice (small) outdoor patio. The food was fine - but the service was pretty sad considering the restaurant was empty when we were there.
Blood Mary's are fantastic, but EXTREMELY spicy - so beware."
Dined on 04/13/2013
 2007
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 12 for Zest Bistro
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Per usual, solid meal, great

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Per usual, solid meal, great presentation and great go-to. The staff is kind and answers questions and the food is fresh and innovative."
Dined on 04/05/2013
 2006
Special Features: fit for foodies, great for brunch, neighborhood gem, great for lunch
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 13 for Zest Bistro
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Staff was very attentative

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Staff was very attentative on a very busy night. Food was well done and the prices reasonable."
Dined on 04/06/2013
 2006
Special Features: neighborhood gem
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 14 for Zest Bistro
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Great new spot. Friendly staff,

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Great new spot. Friendly staff, delicious food and fast kitchen. Also love the natural, chic decor."
Dined on 04/06/2013
 2012
Special Features: fit for foodies, great for brunch, great for outdoor dining, kid-friendly, neighborhood gem, great for lunch
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 15 for Zest Bistro
Overall rating 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5

The two sides of Zest

Food 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Service 
1 / 5
(Poor) 1 / 5
Ambiance 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
"There are two Zests - The great Zest and the poor Zest. We are regulars and when we strike it on the right night everything from the moment you walk in the door just works and you know you are going to have a great evening. On the flip side we have learnt that IF from the moment you walk in the door and there is an issue with seating - the rest of the evening will go down hill. Such a poor night occurred this past Friday - and after talking to our party of regulars we have decided that we will simply walk away from our reservation and try again when the mood is right."
Dined on 04/05/2013
 2010
+1point
1of 1voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 16 for Zest Bistro
Overall rating 
1 / 5
(Poor) 1 / 5

An absolute nightmare. Too

Food 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Service 
1 / 5
(Poor) 1 / 5
Ambiance 
1 / 5
(Poor) 1 / 5
"An absolute nightmare. Too painful to even recount the list of what went wrong.
This used to be our favorite neighborhood place. Will. Never. Return.
"
Dined on 04/05/2013
 2005
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 17 for Zest Bistro
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

I had never made it down to

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"I had never made it down to the south end of 8th street--I'm so glad I finally stumbled into Zest! The kale salad was incredible, as was the key lime pie. I loved the lighting and the attentive service."
Dined on 03/31/2013
 2009
Special Features: neighborhood gem
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 18 for Zest Bistro
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Food and service were great.

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Food and service were great. Good value for the price. Was a little noisy when children were in the restaurant then later in the evening it settled down. Would recommend."
Dined on 03/30/2013
 2012
Special Features: great for outdoor dining
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 19 for Zest Bistro
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

We loved the Blood Orange

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"We loved the Blood Orange Manhattan and Black Ginger cocktails. The staff were friendly, and the atmosphere was comfortable and fun. The food was all good, some of it excellent. The best, I think, was pan-fried catfish with a southern/latin combo -- cheese grits and a chile-citrus sauce."
Dined on 03/29/2013
 2010
Special Features: neighborhood gem
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 20 for Zest Bistro
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Great restaurant. Extremely

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Great restaurant. Extremely busy, interesting mix of people in the crowd. A bit noisy, but not unbearable. The wait staff was good, although our server was a bit slow. Not sure how large his section was, and the support staff did a good job of assisting when needed.
Food is excellent. Fun to have greek dishes served tapa style. We shared several dishes, including dessert and had an excellent experience."
Dined on 03/25/2013
 2012
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, fit for foodies, hot spot
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 21 for Zest Bistro
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Never disappointed with the

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Never disappointed with the menu!"
Dined on 03/25/2013
 2008
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, great for lunch
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 22 for Zest Bistro
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

I organized a group of 8 co-workers

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"I organized a group of 8 co-workers to go to Zest right after work. Not too loud, everyone loved their food, and the price was reasonable. The calamari was awesome. Service was excellent. I got props for selecting Zest!"
Dined on 03/19/2013
 2010
Special Features: good for groups
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 23 for Zest Bistro
Overall rating 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5

Just fine but not great.

Food 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Service 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Not overly impressed. The kale salad was great, but everything else was average. We had an early dinner, so we expected a little better service; the recommendation (lamb shank sandwich) was not as good as we were led to believe."
Dined on 03/19/2013
 2013
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 24 for Zest Bistro
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Great food and great service

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"Great food and great service near the Eastern Market area of DC. Would recommend it."
Dined on 03/17/2013
 2008
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 25 for Zest Bistro
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Loved the appetizers, less

Food 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Loved the appetizers, less enthusiastic about the chorizo taco that was rather bland."
Dined on 03/17/2013
 2004
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 26 for Zest Bistro
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Great food and a good vibe.

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Great food and a good vibe. It is a neighborhood gem with very friendly staff."
Dined on 03/16/2013
 2008
Special Features: fit for foodies, great for brunch, great for outdoor dining, neighborhood gem, great for lunch
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 27 for Zest Bistro
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Amazing brunch food, friendly

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Amazing brunch food, friendly staff and owner. Vegetarian friendly."
Dined on 03/16/2013
 2012
Special Features: fit for foodies, great for brunch, neighborhood gem
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 28 for Zest Bistro
Overall rating 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5

After reading reviews we looked

Food 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Service 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Ambiance 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"After reading reviews we looked forward to a tasty, casual evening. While welcoming and amiable, the wait staff was not informed about certain items znd the food was disappointing, from preparation to flavor."
Dined on 03/10/2013
 2011
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 29 for Zest Bistro
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Food was excellent, staff

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
"Food was excellent, staff was courteous and well mannered. The only problem was the super long wait for our food. I'd still recommend it though, the lamb pita sandwich was delicious."
Dined on 03/10/2013
 2011
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, great for brunch, great for lunch
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 30 for Zest Bistro
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

I took some friends who were

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"I took some friends who were visiting DC to Zest after having a great first experience there last month. Once again, Zest impressed. The food (every plate) was delicious and in copious amounts (and very reasonably priced). The service was warm, friendly, knowledgeable, and on top of everything - some of the best service on Capitol Hill. Can't wait to go back!"
Dined on 03/09/2013
 2005
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, hot spot
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 31 for Zest Bistro
Overall rating 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5

It was good...but far from

Food 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"It was good...but far from great. The manager was incredibly nice when he stopped by our table. Didn't seem to have an actual bar tender to make hand crafted cocktails. Food was over cooked. By nice neighborhood spot. Don't know if it can make it in the lights of places like matchbox and teds bulletin... Best of luck."
Dined on 03/02/2013
 2009
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 32 for Zest Bistro
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

We enjoy dining on 8th St,

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"We enjoy dining on 8th St, SE but had not ventured down to where Zest Bistro is located. What a great place! We went with a group of 5. Had a nice bottle of wine, split 2 appetizers and all had entrees. The food was great and well priced. The staff was wonderful as well."
Dined on 03/02/2013
 2005
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, neighborhood gem, romantic
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 33 for Zest Bistro
Overall rating 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5

Where are all the menus?

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Once we got seated everything was great! It was a little odd though that when we arrived our table was ready except for there not being any available menus. The host, who was very friendly, invited us to sit at the bar until menus became available. We sat at the bar for about 10 minutes before we had to ask the bartender if we could order a drink - he said yes, but didn't make eye contact and took another three minutes or so to bring us a menu. We finally just walked to our table with the one menu we got at the bar. They then found three other menus a few minutes later. From there everything was great - the food was delish, our server was really nice and efficient. Just an odd start."
Dined on 03/02/2013
 2005
Special Features: fit for foodies
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 34 for Zest Bistro
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Nice little place for brunch.

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Nice little place for brunch. Nothing too fancy, but we both left satisfied."
Dined on 02/24/2013
 2008
Special Features: great for brunch, neighborhood gem
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 35 for Zest Bistro
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Always enjoyable! Great neighborho

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Always enjoyable! Great neighborhood favorite- food is on point and the service is great."
Dined on 02/24/2013
 2006
Special Features: fit for foodies, great for brunch, neighborhood gem, great for lunch
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 36 for Zest Bistro
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Excellent service and everything

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Excellent service and everything we ordered was superb!"
Dined on 02/24/2013
 2010
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 37 for Zest Bistro
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

This restaurant was perfect

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"This restaurant was perfect for dinner for my group of 7. It is a small, charming restaurant but we were not cramped by any means. I live close to this restaurant so I am happy it's in the neighborhood! There was something on the menu for everyone (some vegetarians at dinner). We split some appetizers, which we all loved, and all of our meals were just as great! I have been to some places in DC where service and food are iffy, but Zest has their service and food on point. We ended up staying at dinner for about 4 hours - it was great!"
Dined on 02/23/2013
 2013
Special Features: good for groups, neighborhood gem, special occasion
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 38 for Zest Bistro
Overall rating 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5

I have to say, I was EXTREMELY

Food 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Service 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Ambiance 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"I have to say, I was EXTREMELY disappointed in Zest. I found the food mediocre at best. I had the eggs Benedict. And my girlfriend had the challah French toast. We both agreed the food was simply "okay". Most importantly, and this is just a personal thing, but I don't eat red meat. And I find it foolish that a contemporary American restaurant in a major city in a major Brunch-ing area doesn't have ANY alternatives to bacon or sausage...REALLY? No Turkey bacon option? No chicken sausage? No suggestion as to "let me see if we can do anything for you"? That's just dumb. Perhaps this is a better option for dinner, but I certainly will nopt be going back for brunch. And please add some options for those of us who can't have red meat."
Dined on 02/23/2013
 2011
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 39 for Zest Bistro
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Lamb sandwich is fantastic.

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"Lamb sandwich is fantastic. I get it every time."
Dined on 02/23/2013
 2011
Special Features: good for groups, neighborhood gem, great for lunch
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 40 for Zest Bistro
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Zest does it again

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"AS always Zest delivered a wonderful evening for all. Brought two new friends along that had not been before and know what they like when it comes to food. All they could do was rave about it from the moment the first course was placed in front of them."
Dined on 02/23/2013
 2010
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, neighborhood gem, special occasion
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 41 for Zest Bistro
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

The three course fix priced

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"The three course fix priced Valentine's Day meal with wine pairing was fabulous! I also thought it was reasonably priced."
Dined on 02/14/2013
 2008
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, neighborhood gem, special occasion
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 42 for Zest Bistro
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Amazing brunch food and the

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Amazing brunch food and the service is incredible! Great find!"
Dined on 02/17/2013
 2011
Special Features: fit for foodies, great for brunch, kid-friendly, neighborhood gem
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 43 for Zest Bistro
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

The lamb shank is outstanding-this

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"The lamb shank is outstanding-this is the 2nd time someone in my party have ordered this and it has been excellent both times months apart. The key lime pie is also among the best I have ever had."
Dined on 02/16/2013
 2012
Special Features: kid-friendly, neighborhood gem
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 44 for Zest Bistro
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Great place, will definitely return

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
"Arrived early evening during the week so not crowded and had a wonderful meal. Healthy food choices that sounded like they had come from the book, The Plan. Yea for me as I was on vacation and didn't want to deviate too much from my new diet regime. We also had a 17 month old baby with us who did great. All in all a good experience. My only negative is when I made the reservation I couldn't remember my password so I didn't get any points for this reservation."
Dined on 02/18/2013
 2011
Special Features: fit for foodies, kid-friendly
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 45 for Zest Bistro
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

We had a wonderful experience

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"We had a wonderful experience at Zest! The food was superb, and the service was excellent, as usual. I highly recommend Zest - we have never had anything less than an excellent experience there."
Dined on 02/14/2013
 2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, kid-friendly, neighborhood gem, special occasion
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 46 for Zest Bistro
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Most Excellent!

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Valentine's day 2013 menu with wine pairing included some phenomenal food and outstanding vino. The dessert was among the best I have ever had, the White Chocolate Raspberry Cheesecake was so good!"
Dined on 02/14/2013
 2011
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, special occasion, hot spot
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 47 for Zest Bistro
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Fabulous Zest!

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"I absolutely loved Zest Bistro. The variety of the menu was excellent, the wine and drinks wonderful, and the braised lamb shank one of the best I've ever had. The service was great, and the ambiance just perfect for an evening dinner with friends. I will be returning time after time."
Dined on 02/11/2013
 2010
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, special occasion, hot spot
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 48 for Zest Bistro
Overall rating 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5

Not organized

Food 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Service 
1 / 5
(Poor) 1 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"Service, while friendly, couldn't make up for the fact that it took them almost 30 minutes to prepare three easy breakfasts. The entire wait stuff huddled next to the kitchen for almost fifteen minutes waiting for food to come out, and we were the first table of the day! It was like they had to go fetch the chicken and beg her to lay some eggs! Pretty ridiculous. My eggs and toast were cold when finally served but I didn't dare send them back because I didn't want to wait another 30 minutes for the replacement!"
Dined on 02/10/2013
 2011
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 49 for Zest Bistro
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Nice little place!

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"I met a friend for dinner and we shared several items. The short rib appetizer was really delicious. I would definitely recommend that. It was a very nice portion for sharing as well. A salad was good though I wasn't fond of the dressing. The miso cod was good. I thought the atmosphere was much nicer than it appears on-line and the service was good and everyone was really friendly. I'm really picky and a foodie and thought the quality and taste of the food was good and the prices super reasonable. Two of us shared an app, salad, main course, dessert and each of us had coffee and each of us had a glass of wine and my share was $35 plus tip. I would recommend it and would go again for a casual restaurant spot."
Dined on 02/10/2013
 2002
Special Features: neighborhood gem
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 50 for Zest Bistro
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

We took a friend to Zest for

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"We took a friend to Zest for lunch and like it because it is almost cozy, given its size, nicely lit, and the food is consistently good and has seasonal changes. The service is always friendly but not overdone."
Dined on 02/08/2013
 2007
Special Features: neighborhood gem
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
1 2 next>>