It took 11 months longer than expected for The Blondinit to open.
But when the first diners arrive on Thursday (March 21), they’ll know it was worth the wait.
A preview of the Israeli restaurant on Saturday showcased the ultra-fresh, ultra-good food.
And the very cool décor, handsome marble bar, and attentive wait staff.
Guests and staff at the Blondinit bar. (Photo/Dan Woog)
Owners Solomon and Inda Sade run several other businesses. But the attention they’ve given their newest venture is clear.
The former Manna Toast has been completely renovated. Brunch, lunch and dinner menus include salatim (salads, with a twist), nish nush (snacks), bowls, pita sandwiches, platters, skewers, specialty dishes and sides.
The Sades are particularly proud of their baklava pancakes, mafrum (potato, ground beef, lamb, spiced tomato sauce, couscous) and chraime (fish of the day, spicy tomato sauce, blistered tomatoes).
Despite a reliance on meats and salads, Israeli cuisine is not exactly the same as Middle Eastern, Mediterranean or Greek, Solomon notes.
Shakshuka features eggs poached in a sauce of tomatoes, with Israeli cheese and spices. It’s served with charred pita bread.
Two examples: there is no pork. The seasonings are different.
And this: the Bulgarian cheese Israelis use is soaked in brine, rather than fresh water.
The wine list includes many from Israel. Cocktails feature herbs, spices and fruits, like The Blondinit (Gregy Goose, feta brine, feta olives), Ya-Rok margarita (Tito’s Handmade Vodka, espresso, cinnamon and cardamom) and Boker Tov (Herradura Silver, s’chug, agave, egg white, sumac).
All food is scratch made. Ingredients are delivered fresh daily. The Sades will not use freezers or microwaves — “nothing out of a box,” Solomon says.
Leftover food will be donated to pantries and food rescue organizations.
The Blondinit owners Inda and Solomon Sade flank 1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker. (Photo/Dan Woog)
“We want people to feel like they’re a family, coming to dinner,” Inda says.
It felt that way Saturday. The “family” that filled the new restaurant came from all over Westport. They left smiling — and very well fed.
The Blondinit a great complement to 2 other very different restaurants, directly across the street: Spotted Horse and Pink Sumo.
So what’s with the name?
“Blondinit means ‘female blonde’ in Hebrew,” Solomon explains.
“It’s named for my wife.”
PS: How’s this for a delicious twist? The new Israeli restaurant is located on Church Lane.
(The Blondinit will be open Tuesdays through Fridays from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.; Saturdays and Sundays from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. It will be closed Mondays.)
Bourekas are a puff pastry, stuffed with Israeli cheese, meat or potatoes. They’re served with a dipping sauce.