The Heart-Wrenching Story Behind Zuzu's Meals
One year after her son's death, Kholoud Jallad opens a restaurant in honor of his memory.
But once inside, you quickly realize there’s more to the story. Last year, owner and head chef Kholoud Jallad lost her 17-year-old son Zuhair “Zuzu” Jallad in a fatal car accident.
Inspired by her son’s generosity and love for food, Jallad opened the breakfast and lunch spot in March with a slew of Zuzu’s favorites.
On the appetizer menu, you’ll find thick, doughy cheese, meat and spinach pies ($3.99 for two) stuffed to the brim with filling alongside house-made hummus that has an almost nutty texture ($3.99 small, $5.99 large).
Five different wraps — including the shish tawook ($6.50) made with marinated chicken, garlic sauce, fries, pickles and turnips — are served on Zuzu Bread, a thick, puffed bread similar to a tortilla.
But the beef shawarma ($11.99) has it all, with thick, grilled strips of seasoned beef topped with diced tomatoes and chopped parsley for a tender, balanced meal. Served with a flavorful bed of rice and vermicelli topped with fried pine nuts, tahini sauce and two sides — think crisp seasoned fries or a hearty helping of baba ghanoush — it’s both plentiful and tasty.
In fact, everything on the menu, including the mamol cookies ($2.99 for six) made with date-stuffed dough, a rose water glaze and a chopped pistachio topping, is made with great care to keep us coming back.
When You Go
Zuzu’s Meals
614 W. Superior Ave., Suite 105, Cleveland
216-563-1301
