Avocado toast and the salad of the day at Zak the Baker.
This week, I decided to diverge from my usual lunch routine of GoGo and Icebox on the beach, and make the trip across the bridge to Wynwood to meet fellow writer Carla Torres at Zak the Baker’s fresh new digs. While he’s long baked up loaves in Hialeah and supplied many local restaurants with his creations, this is his first cafe and bakery, which opened this summer. The menu consists of toast topped with fresh ingredients–like the avocado spread that I tried–salads, sandwiches, quiche, soup and sweet baked goods that change daily. It’s best to mix and match your meal or order a few different things to share.
I opted for the aforementioned avocado toast with a sprinkling of red pepper flakes and ricotta and the salad of the day with fennel, cauliflower and quinoa tossed in a vinaigrette. I’ve tried his grab-and-go sandwiches at Panther Coffee in the past, and this freshly baked, freshly toasted variety does his bread much better justice. The toast is warm and pillowy soft with a perfectly crunchy crust creating a true “comfort food” experience. Carla ordered the lentil soup and a sandwich with lox.
I couldn’t resist the chocolate babka displayed enticingly on the counter for dessert, and it was a worthy, moist indulgence that I’d gladly return for. In fact, Zak has all the makings of a regular lunch joint–fast and friendly service, a fresh and healthy menu, and a bright and cozy dining room. Most items on the menu range from $7 to $12 and, of course, whole loaves of bread are also available.
