It’s not every day when you can walk into a hole in the wall and be fed some of the best food in the south. It’s even more rare to actually be saying the tagline of the place your eating at. However, the second you walk into the doors at Zunzi’s, there’s no way you are leaving with out a smile, good food, and a “Shit Yeah!”
Established in 2005, Zunzi’s was opened by Johny and Gabby to satisfy Johny’s dream of opening a disco. Johny is from South Africa, and the name “Zunzi’s” is a made up word from Zanzibar. Gabby is Swiss, and she created the menu by using influences from South Africa, Switzerland, Italy, Greece, the Netherlands, and America.
They ran Zunzi’s together and even opened up a second one, Z2. After a while, thy both realized that running a restaurant was taking a toll on them, so they sold Zunzi’s to Chris, a local restaurant owner, who has been keeping their dream alive since.
Zunzi’s is literally a hole in the wall, but you can’t miss it. Surrounded by string lights, rainbow umbrellas, cool art, and flags from each place they draw inspiration from, Zunzi’s is the hidden gem in the historic district. The food is always served in a to-go box because they give you so much food and they want you to be able to eat it all or share it later. It’s the little things that makes Zunzi’s so memorable.
Zunzi’s was created with one intention: to unify people through food. William, the manager, and the entire Zunzi’s team show the integrity of great food along with great service. William says if you’re leaving the counter without saying “Shit yeah!” they’re not doing their job. Everyone in Savannah knows that Zunzi’s is home to the most genuine, realistic, and caring employees who honestly want to make your day better. You can’t beat that when the service comes with delicious food.
Classics at Zunzi’s include “The Conquistador,” “Oliver’s Lunch,” and “The Godfather.” Everything on the line is made in house, from the sausage to the sauce, everything is fresh and made with the coolest hands in the town. They also have dishes like salmon, falafel, and baked chicken. The service is fast and right in front of you, so you can sauce it up and top it off with cheese and anything your heart desires (well, almost…). The food will leave you beyond satisfied and ultra full, so be prepared to walk it off or have Uber ready.
One of the best things about Zunzi’s is that they never fail to surprise you. I have Celiac disease and I am also vegan because of food allergies, and finding places I can actually eat at is beyond difficult. I can eat at Zunzi’s. Zunzi’s has vegetarian and vegan options and the best—seriously, the absolute best—gluten-free bread I’ve ever had. William recently went vegan, and the restaurant is now doing its best to create and incorporate recipes that anyone can eat, no matter what allergies or preferences. They truly are uniting people through food.
We cannot thank William and Chris enough for letting us sit down and hear their amazing stories and journeys. If you’re looking for authenticity with a well-fed body, Zunzi’s is the place to go. Check them out and tell them Spoon Uni @ SCAD sent you! SHIT YEAH!