Friday, March 7, 2014

Etzel Itzik (Aventura)

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Etzel Itzik is an Israeli restaurant located in a nondescript strip mall on West Dixie Highway in Aventura. My friend ER "Truth be Told" Gagit has been raving about their shakshuka for years. I finally paid a visit several months ago and it has quickly become one of my favorite go to spots.

I've never been to Tel Aviv but I feel transported there every visit because of the food, Hebrew banter and the packed city-esque vibe. Plus my Israeli friends vouch for its authenticity.

They are open daily for breakfast, lunch and dinner (close at 7:30) with the exception of Friday evening and Sunday. Yes, they are open on Saturday. They are always crowded and there is usually a line out the door during peak hours. But don't let that dissuade you, service is fast and it's worth the short wait.

Once seated, several complimentary side dishes magically appear at your table. A generous gesture and perfect to nosh on while perusing the menu. Breakfast items include the aforementioned shaksuka, green omelettes, lebaneh, masabacha and bourekas. There are several sandwich options available for lunch and dinner including falafel, schnitzel, pargiot and sabich. Entrees include kofta kebab, chicken liver, chicken hearts, spicy sausage, lamb chops, pargiot, schnitzel, spicy Moroccan fish and goulash.

Jachnun and cholent are great Saturday specials.

If you are looking to try something new, I would highly recommend paying Etzel Itzik's a visit. The food is very good and the atmosphere is unique for Miami. It's full of character and some characters too.

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Complimentary treats usually consist of pickles, cabbage, pasta salad, chick peas, beet salad and corn.

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The super Shakshuka. A spicy tomato sauce topped with poached eggs.

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Jachnon is a Saturday breakfast special. It's a bread/pastry dish that is slowly baked on low heat overnight. It's paired with crushed tomatos and green skhug, a nice spicy green pepper hot sauce.

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Lebaneh, strained yogurt topped with zatar and olive oil.

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Turkish coffee.

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The Limonana is a very refreshing mint infused lemonade.

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Hummus topped with paprika and tahini.

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Grilled Chicken Hearts.



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Israeli salad.

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Another Saturday only special. Itzik's Cholent "Shabbat stew" is a savory hit featuring brisket, potatoes, beans, barley, marrow, a whole egg and kishke.

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Pargiot aka young chicken.

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Yes, download your favorite Hebrew translation app before going.

Etzel Itzik Deli on Urbanspoon


Hours

Monday 8:00 Am - 7:30 Pm
Tuesday 8:00 Am - 7:30 Pm
Wednesday 8:00 Am - 7:30 Pm
Thursday 8:00 Am - 7:30 Pm
Friday 8:00 Am - 4:30 Pm
Saturday 8:00 Am - 4:30 Pm
Sunday Closed


(305) 937-1546
18757 W Dixie Hwy
Miami, FL 33180

1 comment:

Lomar Yunk said...

I travel to Tel Aviv at least twice a year and the food there is amazing! I suggest you to go their and eat food in best restaurant in Tel Aviv.