Philadelphia, PA -
Keeping up with the food news these days, it is hard not to notice the interest in the Middle Eastern spice combination called Zaatar or Za'atar. Philadelphia's own James Beard Award-winning Chef Michael Solomonov has done his part to spread the gospel.
Bitar's middle Eastern Grocery & Restaurant has been serving Zaatar flatbreads and selling the spice to area chefs for over 40 years. In the mid-90s second-generation owner, Amin Bitar introduced his personalized South Philly Pizza innovation using Zaatar bread. named the "Bitzza!"
- Plain Bitzza - Tomatoes, onion, and feta cheese. Middle Eastern pizza served over zaatar bread (thyme, sumac, sesame seeds, and olive oil). $6.00
- Vegetarian Bitzza - Tomatoes, onion, feta cheese, and roasted peppers. Middle Eastern pizza served over zaatar bread (thyme, sumac, sesame seeds, and olive oil). $6.50
- Greek Bitzza - Tomatoes, onion, feta cheese, and Kalamata olives. Middle Eastern pizza served over zaatar bread (thyme, sumac, sesame seeds, and olive oil). $7.00
- Chicken Bitzza - Grilled chicken, tomatoes, onions, olives, marinated string cheese. Middle Eastern pizza served over zaatar bread (thyme, sumac, sesame seeds, and olive oil). $8.95
The popularity of Zaatar has made these selections a popular business and social event catering choice, and they still sell well at the newly remodeled and expanded dining room at the 10th & Federal location.
