Zexe — Restaurant in Bucharest

Zexe Zahana, perched gracefully on the linden tree-lined Aviatorilor Boulevard, is a gem that radiates old-world charm and unapologetic Romanian tradition. Housed in a beautifully restored villa, its opulent setup is evident from the moment you step inside. Pristine tablecloths and gleaming cutlery are laid out with a sense of ceremony, setting the stage for an experience that feels both luxurious and warmly familiar. The garden is an oasis, the bathrooms are spotless—clearly, no detail is left unattended.

The inside of the restaurant, sprawling across two elegant floors, is reminiscent of Bucharest’s old nickname, “Little Paris,” a title it wore proudly before the communist regime decimated much of its grand architecture to make way for utilitarian buildings for the working class. At Zexe, that lost elegance is still alive—high ceilings, ornate moldings, and vintage chandeliers transport you back to a time when the city rivaled the Parisian charm.

We arrived without a reservation, yet the hostess, efficient and genuinely welcoming, found us the best seat in the house: the balcony. Despite being only three people, she didn’t hesitate to set us up at a table for eight, which I deeply appreciated. It was the perfect vantage point to soak in the ambiance—spacious, airy, and surrounded by greenery. I’d reserve that spot again in a heartbeat.

Our server, Cristina, deserves a special mention. Professional, attentive, and genuinely invested in our experience, she moved with a confidence that assured us we were in good hands. If you’re lucky enough to have her, trust that she’ll take care of you with grace and charm.

The meal began with palincă—homemade and potent, with a clean, smooth finish that could rival the finest grappas. I’m not usually one to rave about house wines, but Zexe’s selection was stellar. A pale rosé whose name I regretfully forgot, and a white Aligoté that danced on the palate—both were exquisite and an absolute steal at around $44 per liter. Do yourself a favor and order the house wines; they have more than a handful to choose from, each one a testament to Romanian winemaking.

Zexe’s menu is unflinchingly traditional, and that’s its greatest strength. No fusion confusion here—just bold Romanian flavors elevated by a female chef who understands that refinement doesn’t mean diluting heritage. We started with “ciorbă de potroace,” a sour soup brimming with the richness of farm-raised chicken—not the kind you find on supermarket shelves, but small, free-ranging birds happily scratching at the dirt in search of tasty morsels. You can taste the difference—a depth of flavor that only comes from true farm living, not assembly-line poultry. It’s hearty, soulful, and exactly what you’d hope for in a traditional Romanian soup.

And then, the sarmale. Oh, the sarmale. Quite simply, the best I’ve ever had—an earthy blend of wild boar and other meats, wrapped tightly in cabbage leaves and simmered to perfection. We were three at the table, sharing everything, but this was the one dish we ordered twice. If you’ve never tried sarmale, this is where you should start. The goose-stuffed grape leaves were another hit—tender, flavorful, and perfectly spiced.

At Cristina’s suggestion, we wrapped up with a lemony ice cream cake that was nothing short of divine—a light, zesty palate cleanser that left us refreshed and thoroughly satisfied.

Zexe Zahana is a jewel in Bucharest’s culinary landscape. If you want to immerse yourself in Romanian tradition—elevated, refined, and proudly unyielding—this is where you go. Anywhere you sit is a win, but if you’re eyeing the balcony, you might want to check with me first—some things are too...

Went to dine there yesterday 28/07/2019 with my girlfriend. I specifically asked for a table with a bit of privacy since the place was practically empty (only 3 tables occupied). The first group of customers that arrived were placed right next to us, with tables aligned and roughly a meter of gap. I kindly asked if we could move to any of the empty tables and I was answered that it was not possible cause "they did not have any" by a waiter short with blue eyes. When I asked if the entire room was booked, the answer was no, but the empty tables were for 6 people with an attitude that was getting more and more rude. I then asked to be seated in a 6 people table and got answered "and what do I do if 6 people come?" - Please note once again that the place was practically empty and there were at least 6 tables for 6 or more people available. By the time we left, after dinner, not even one customer entered. The service went on with further rude attitude by the same waiter, who was also spending time talking loud to his colleagues. Ate a pork chop which was hard and dry. Ordered french fries and got potato chips, half burned. The whole experience was terrible and we really felt like the only priority of the staff was to get rid of the customers as fast as they could (my bet is that the manager of the place must have been on holiday). I will never in my life go back to that place. I will never get tired of telling how rude, sloppy, inappropriate was the...

TOP of the line! Let me say that the location is stunning! This restaurant use to be few years ago on a side street in the old area of Bucharest, and now they moved in one of the most beautiful possible location ! Once we arrived a professional server (I specify it because there is a huuge difference between those "hourly" servers and ....these from Zexe...), the order was taken and you already felt that you are respected and welcome at their Restaurant. You will wait a decent time to receive the food, and it will give you the confidence that what you ordered is baked during that time, not something "warmed" or boiled from yesterday... Food, excellent! We ordered "ciorba de burta" with sour cream and hot pepper, tuzlama, and as a main dish a platter with few things and all were very well prepared: I strongly recommend the "maduvioara", the "pizdulice" (how tender meat is that part of the female pig !!!, "carnaciori Zexe" and for sure "mititei"...we did not feel the need of a side dish, because a red beets salad with a horse radish remoulade was more than enough. The atmosphere brings elegance, and distinction. a very nice evening delighted our souls! Excellent restaurant! In terms of prices, at the level of food quality, I consider...