Admittedly, I had never heard of Zabar's until the episode of "Sex and the City" where Charlotte prepares her first Shabbat dinner and goes to Zabar's to grocery shop. When my New York City hostess suggested we go on a culinary expedition to the store, I couldn't resist.
It was Monday night at the end of a long weekend and Zabar's was packed!
Right when we walked in we entered the olives section. There were so many kinds! The olives were in deep, construction zone-like buckets.
Next up was the cheese counter including this case of cheese spreads. I love spreads and dips. Had I not been an out of town guest, I would have stocked up!
I also noticed the mozzarella "salad" which is simply a giant ball of mozzarella cheese with two basil leaves for garnish.
Around the corner we found the candy and dried fruit section where I discovered dried kiwi! I'd never seen that in my life. Cranberries, apricot, pineapple, guava - sure. But kiwi? I felt I'd spotted an endangered species.
Around another corner, the desserts! I was tempted buy these chocolate rugelach, a Jewish grandmother staple.
I also found a more classic, American treat - rainbow sprinkle topped cupcakes. The best part? They come in individual packages.
Around another corner, I stumbled upon the prepared foods section including cheese blintzes and giant knishes! The knishes have their own wall.
Apparently Zabar's has their own coffee blend and people stand in line waiting for it. It was fun to watch the staff toss, weigh and bag the beans.
Near the coffee I discovered jam from New York City brunch spot Sarabeth's. Don't want to wait there for a table? Take this home for a taste of the restaurant at your own table.
After perusing the entire downstairs, we headed upstairs to the housewares section. Zabar's has dishes, glassware, pots and pans, utensils in every color of the rainbow and fun kitchen gadgets and toys.
We walked up and down every aisle. I loved these rocket ship shaped popsicle molds. They reminded me of my favorite ice cream truck treat, the red, white and blue firecraker popsicle!
I also discovered this chart that helps you decide what frosting accessories to buy based on what type of cake decorations you want to make.
Walking around Zabar's felt like an anthropological expedition. If you're craving Jewish comfort food or need to buy something for a bridal shower, this is the place.
