Zakia Modern Lebanese Restaurant

"Even for Buckhead, everything about Zakia is excessive. There are four dramatic chandeliers and giant pillars lining the dining area that have us Googling the breadth of ancient Rome imperialism (yes to Tyre, but et tu, Buckhead?). Zakia’s classy interior edges Buckhead's many bougie spots, but their food stands out from the pack, thanks to excellent takes on Lebanese staples like fried kibbeh, impossibly fresh baba ganoush with pomegranate seeds, and crispy batata harra." - demarco williams, nina reeder, juli horsford, jacinta howard

"Even if this Buckhead restaurant didn’t serve food, we’d pay to just sit inside and take in the view. Five multi-tiered chandeliers light up the giant space and large ornate pillars line the main dining room—this place is absolutely over the top, but we like that here in the A. And once the family-style Lebanese dishes hit the table, Zakia really starts flexing. Use the labneh sprinkled with za’atar as a palate cleanser in between bites of crispy batata harra and creamy lamb ragu hummus. Entrees like red wine braised lamb shanks (so tender the lamb falls away from the bone with one poke of a fork) are harder to share—we want every bite for ourselves." - nina reeder, jacinta howard, juli horsford

"A family-style Lebanese meal at this Buckhead restaurant is always a good idea when you’ve got a big group. Watch as everyone at the table nods in quiet agreement after the first pleasing bite of tender lamb shank. Just prepare for a family-feud breaking out over who gets the last bite of fried kibbeh. If it comes to that, try redirecting since there are plenty of things at Zakia to “ooh and ahh” over in the 6,000 square-foot dining room: four-tiered chandeliers, giant ornate pillars, and a large portrait of the owners’ grandmother whom the restaurant is named after." - jacinta howard, juli horsford

"Even for Buckhead, everything about Zakia is excessive. Their Roman pillars, gold accents, and “more is more” design philosophy remind us of an old MTV Cribs episode. So Mondays get a glow-up when you’re dining under multiple chandeliers. But all that takes a backseat when Zakia’s excellent Lebanese staples (like fried kibbeh, impossibly fresh baba ganoush with pomegranate seeds, and crispy batata harra) hit your table." - jacinta howard, juli horsford

"Zakia, the modern Lebanese restaurant by Ryan and Jonathan Akly in Buckhead transports you to a luxe Middle Eastern oasis. The carved marble columns, the gold leaf metallic details, and lush velvet chairs are all about the luxurious feel in this restaurant. The white floors and ample windows let in plenty of natural light, opening up the place. The open kitchen feels like live entertainment, adding to the jovial and fine atmosphere of the restaurant. At 6,000 square feet, Zakia features seating for just over 200 people between the dining room, bar and lounge, and private dining spaces. A room on the second floor is reserved for private events. Be sure to order the tableside arak service with a selection of mezze." - Beth McKibben, Eater Staff