Z&Z – Manoushe Bakery — Restaurant in Rockville

Z&Z Manoushe had been on my radar for a while, thanks to their vibrant Instagram presence and mouthwatering manoushe photos. But what made our visit extra special was the personal connection—my boyfriend Chris went to elementary school with one of the owners, Johnny. They reconnected years later at the gym, and Johnny, with the same warmth he brings to his restaurant, invited Chris to come check out the place he and his family built. Once I realized I was already a fan from afar, it felt like fate was nudging us toward a visit. And let me tell you, Z&Z didn’t just meet our expectations—it exceeded them.

We ordered the Harissa Chicken and the Lebanese Bride, and both were unforgettable.

The Lebanese Bride was a fresh, flavorful masterpiece. The za’atar base was aromatic and perfectly toasted, topped with chopped cucumbers, tomatoes, mint, and creamy labneh. It was light, refreshing, and incredibly authentic—like a trip to a family kitchen in Beirut, all wrapped in warm, handmade dough.

The Harissa Chicken was bold and smoky, with a little char that added depth to every bite. The harissa delivered a gentle heat that didn’t overpower, and the creamy drizzle balanced it out beautifully. Fresh herbs and a squeeze of lime on top sealed the deal—it was one of the best flatbreads we’ve ever had.

On top of the incredible food, the customer service was outstanding. Johnny, his sister, father and everyone who worked there gave great hospitality and pride in his family's food shone through in every interaction. The atmosphere is casual, colorful, and inviting—down to the floral-and-citrus tablecloths that somehow make the meal feel even more vibrant.

Z&Z Manoushe isn’t just a restaurant—it’s a family story, a cultural gem, and a delicious love letter to Middle East street food. Whether you have a personal connection or not, you’ll walk away feeling like part of the family. We’ll definitely be back probably countless times.

Thanks for such a great place....

A Suburban Gem: Manoushe Café's Heartwarming Hospitality

Nestled within the tranquil suburbs of Maryland, just a stone's throw from the bustling energy of Washington, D.C., "Manoushe Café" exudes a welcoming charm that beckons locals and visitors alike. While the culinary offerings may earn a modest rating from me, it's the exceptional service and the genuine warmth of the staff that truly distinguish this gem.

Entering Manoushe Café feels like stepping into a cozy haven, far removed from the urban hustle. The inviting aroma of freshly brewed coffee fills the air, setting the stage for a delightful culinary journey.

As a seeker of both authentic flavors and heartfelt hospitality, I set out to explore two quintessential offerings: the coffee and, of course, the manoushe.

First, the coffee. Manoushe Café certainly takes pride in its coffee craft, evident from the first aromatic whiff to the last satisfying sip. Each cup is a testament to their dedication to quality, offering a rich, flavorful experience that lingers long after the last drop.

Turning to the manoushe, expectations were tempered with anticipation. Freshly baked and generously adorned with traditional toppings, the flatbread presented a promising sight. Although the bread and toppings certainly boasted a delightful freshness, it was not something I would get again, unlike the coffee.

Where Manoushe Café truly shines is in its service. The staff, with their genuine smiles and attentive gestures, create an atmosphere of warmth and hospitality that feels like a cherished embrace. Their dedication to ensuring every guest feels valued elevates the dining experience from ordinary to extraordinary.

In summary, while Manoushe Café's genuine hospitality and welcoming ambiance make it a standout destination in Maryland's suburban landscape. For a taste of the Levant paired with heartfelt service, Manoushe Café is a hidden gem waiting to...

Z&Z – Manoushe Bakery: A Culinary Portal to the Heart of Middle East - ( Halal )

I first stumbled upon Z&Z – Manoushe Bakery on Instagram, and as fate would have it, I happened to be in the area not long after. From the moment I stepped through the doors, I knew I’d found a hidden gem. The intoxicating aroma of fresh herbs, warm dough, and za’atar instantly transported me back to Middle East. The walls, adorned with vibrant art and cultural accents, made the space feel like a beautiful intersection of tradition and community.

As I took it all in, I was warmly greeted by Danny, who walked me through the menu with the kind of passion you only find from someone who truly believes in what they're serving. He broke down the popular picks, and you could tell everything on the menu had a story behind it.

While I was still deciding, I met Michael—the owner’s son—who just happened to have an extra Lebanese Bride flatbread and kindly offered it to me. It was the perfect introduction to the flavors Z&Z is known for: a soft, chewy manoushe layered with creamy labneh, fresh mint, tomatoes, olives, and a sprinkle of za’atar. It was simple yet elegant—a taste that brought the Levant to my fingertips.

Inspired by that first bite, I ordered the Hot Halaby Honey—and wow. The balance of spicy Aleppo pepper and warm, golden honey drizzled over a bed of za’atar and melted cheese was nothing short of magic. Sweet, spicy, and savory all in one bite. Each chew was like a love letter to Levantine street food with a bold, modern twist.

Z&Z isn’t just a bakery—it’s a vibe. It’s a cultural experience. It’s the kind of place that makes you feel seen, welcomed, and fed—heart and soul. Whether you’re Arab or just Arab-adjacent, Z&Z makes you feel at home.

By way this place is Halal...

This won’t be my last visit—and next time, I’m...