Overview: Zoe's Kitchen

Zoe's Kitchen first debuted in the Washington, DC Metropolitan area with an opening in Woodbridge, VA in early 2010. In the three years since , residents of Potomac, MD, Fairfax, VA, Annapolis, MD, Arlington, VA, and now, Reston, VA, have all been provided with the fresh and tasty Mediterranean-inspired dishes offered by Zoe's Kitchen.

Founded in 1995, Zoe's Kitchen is a fast-casual restaurant serving fresh Mediterranean inspired dishes using fresh ingredients prepared daily from original recipes.  Fryers or microwaves won't be found at any of their locations. At Zoe's Kitchen, customers can dine in, call ahead for takeout; purchase fully-prepared dinners for four, order side dishes by the pint and they can even take advantage of catering options, which include box lunches and party trays. Vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free dishes are all available at Zoe's Kitchen. Some of Zoe's signature items include chicken kabobs, spinach roll-ups, hummus and braised white beans, though they also serve a variety of both classic and pita sandwiches, salads, soups and an array of other sides and entrees. 

As an Arlington resident during the time Zoe's Kitchen first opened in Ballston, I was always drawn to Zoe's Kitchen's offerings, but somehow never made it inside the restaurant to order anything other than a drink. I was recently invited to try a sampling of nearly the entire menu at the recently opened Reston location, where I quickly realized what I've been missing out on the past two years by not frequenting the Arlington location more often. 

The Chicken Kabobs, with grilled peppers, onions and tomato, were my favorite entree.

The Steak Kabobs, with red bell peppers and onions, were tender and juicy.

Shrimp Kabobs and Veggie Kabobs are also available. 

                                      

Pictured above are the steak roll-ups, though the spinach roll-ups were my second favorite entree.

Zoe's Marinated Slaw made with feta, scallions and light vinaigrette instead of mayo, and the Orzo "Tabouli" were light and refreshing.

I can never say no to a side of rice, and if I was at home I'm sure I could have finished this entire bowl of Rice Pilaf by myself. 

In a decision I'm still regretting, I didn't try one of these house-baked chocolate chip cookies.

Though I no longer live in Arlington, VA, I definitely plan on stopping by Zoe's Kitchen the next time I pass by one of their six locations. For the full menu and list of locations, you can visit www.zoeskitchen.com. You can also follow Zoe's Kitchen on Facebook www.facebook.com/ZoesKitchen or Twitter http://twitter.com/zoeskitchen to receive the latest updates on Zoe's Kitchen openings.