Montclair Magazine Spring 2018 | Page 69

ROASTED ARTICHOKES AND KALE Z CHEF SPECIAL SHRIMP CASSEROLE HUMMUS TRIO gized zed to my dining partners because I confiscated most of the grilled roast- ed artichokes served on a bed of baby arugula and kale, with a light and lovely lemon balsamic dressing and a sprinkle of sunflower seeds. Many of the main courses have a Turkish influence, such as Keftah, a blend of lamb and ground beef mixed with fresh herbs that is shaped into patties and grilled. I loved the char on the outside and the tender interi- or, and a spicy tomato dipping sauce added zing. A side medley of sautéed fresh vegetables included fingerling potatoes, rain- bow carrots and kale. Shrimp casserole arrived at the table in a hot skillet. The entree feature d a circle of jumbo shrimp bathed in a garlicky tomato sauce, surrounded by cubes of portobello mushrooms and cloaked with mol- ten mozzarella cheese. Warm pita triangles were AT A GLANCE • MOST ENTREES MORE THAN $20 • BYO • OPEN 7 DAYS • ALFRESCO, BRUNCH • DELIVERY • ENTERTAINMENT • FAMILY FRIENDLY • HANDICAPPED ACCESSIBLE • TAKE OUT the perfect vehicles for soaking up the sauce. Desserts are made in-house, and include several creative fruit “mocktails.” But the showstopper is the Z Chef Special. Sliced strawberries are folded into fluffy pastry cream, then sandwiched between two golden meringue discs, and served atop a puddle of fresh raspberry sauce. It was an ethereally light, sweet ending to a rich, delicious meal. ■ MONTCLAIR MAGAZINE SPRING 2018 71