The Khalafs’ newest concept serves classic Mediterranean dishes with contemporary flair
For Yaser Khalaf, Zon Zon is more than a restaurant; it’s a family story brought to life. Named after his daughter Zaina, whose nickname lends the restaurant its playful name, the new Mediterranean spot carries a sense of joy, warmth and intention that feels immediately personal, setting the tone before the first dish ever hits the table.
Zon Zon is the newest concept from Yela Concepts, the hospitality group behind North Texas favorites Darna at Legacy West and Baboush in West Village. The restaurant opened on Dec. 22 at 5455 Belt Line Rd., Suite 130, and marks the first collaboration between Yaser and his son, Mak, bringing a modern Mediterranean concept rooted in family and shared history to North Dallas.
“We wanted to create a comfortable space where guests can meet up with friends or neighbors on a regular basis,” Yaser said. “It’s rooted in the flavors we grew up with, but reimagined through a contemporary lens.”
A Space Designed To Feel Lived In
From the moment you walk in the door, a sense of warmth and intimacy carries through the room itself. Designed in collaboration with Dallas-based Coeval Studios, Zon Zon spans 2,130 square feet with a 735-square-foot patio, seating 76 guests indoors and nearly 100 when patio seating is included.
Contemporary lines and modern woodwork are softened by rich textures and subtle Middle Eastern accents, creating a space that feels polished but inviting. An open kitchen anchors the dining room, adding energy and intimacy, while the main wall is lined with an eclectic mix of prints, photographs and artwork that gives the restaurant its visual rhythm.
Familiar Flavors, Thoughtfully Reimagined
The menu leans into classic Mediterranean flavors, treated with care and restraint. During our visit, we started with the classic hummus, a reminder that simplicity, when done well, can be the most memorable. The olive oil is rich and aromatic, and the accompanying pita is exceptionally soft and full of flavor.
Photo: Matilda Preisendorf | Local Profile
The batata harra also stood out as a must-order: crispy, spice-forward potatoes tossed with truffle parmesan, layered with smoky urfa and finished with cool saffron labneh. The falafel followed suit, crisp on the outside and tender within, topped with sumac onions, tahini, pickles and a green shatta that brought brightness and heat.
From Grill To Table
For an entrée, the prime ribeye delivered both comfort and depth, glazed with sweet, rich date molasses and served alongside silky whipped potatoes and perfectly roasted vegetables. It’s a dish that feels indulgent without being heavy, balancing sweetness, savoriness and texture on the plate.
For those looking for a meatless option, the falafel stands confidently on its own — crisp on the outside and tender inside, topped with sumac onions, tahini, pickles and a green shatta that adds brightness and heat.
Photo: Matilda Preisendorf | Local Profile
Sips With A Twist
Zon Zon doesn’t just impress with food. The drinks menu carries the same attention to detail and creativity. The cocktails feel inspired by the flavors of the Mediterranean, each one carefully balanced and visually striking. By the Sea is a floral, refreshing mix of Empress gin, crème de violette, lavender syrup, fresh lemon and tonic, perfect for sipping on the patio. Desert Bloom combines spiced rum with citrus sour, honey and a hint of orange blossom, evoking the warmth of sun-soaked flavors. Last Night in Beirut offers depth and complexity, with Bulleit 95 rye, honey syrup, Luxardo cherry and black walnut bitters, while ZZ’s Margarita brings a playful, unexpected twist with Flecha Azul blanco, burnt pineapple, orange blossom, agave and a touch of ras el hanout. Each cocktail feels like a small adventure, complementing the menu’s modern Mediterranean spirit.
Ending On A Sweet Note
Dessert is where Zon Zon fully leans into indulgence. ZZ’s baklava is the clear standout, made with goat cheese, burnt pineapple, mixed nuts and vanilla gelato. Rolled instead of sliced, the baklava is extra crisp, adding another layer of texture to an already memorable dish. During our visit, the restaurant also offered a Basque cheesecake special, perfectly browned on top, lightly caramelized and not overly sweet.
Photo: Matilda Preisendorf | Local Profile
Before heading out, the traditional Turkish tea is worth lingering over, served in elegant cups and a teapot, with subtle floral and mint notes that provide a calm, satisfying close to the meal.
With Zon Zon, the Khalafs have created more than just another Mediterranean restaurant. It’s a space that feels lived-in from day one, where family history, thoughtful design and deeply familiar flavors come together in a way that adds to Dallas’ standout culinary scene.
We thank Zon Zon for hosting and treating us. Don’t forget to make a reservation here.
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