Address: Zámocká 13
Hours:Sun - Thurs. 11:30 - 15:00, 18:00 - 22:00, Friday: 11:30 - 15:00
Cuisine: Kosher
Prices:Sk Sk
Reservations:Accepted (recommended)
English menu: yes (German, Hebrew)
Credit Cards: Accepted
Recommended:Any time!!
Growing up with Kosher food in Seattle was not my idea of fun. Even the few times I did touch animal meat, I found the food to be bland and tasteless. Chez David allows me return to my childhood but this time with a new fondness for Kosher cooking which I never thought was possible.
Delicately breaded falafel, which lies on a carefully prepared bed of white pumpkin and is seasoned with fennel and dill, is difficult to refuse. Or the garlic soup, which is smooth as butter, or the salmon steak, which is by far the best in Bratislava. What is really nice about this place is the consistent service. The waiters speak English and are quite attentive, the tablecloths are changed after every diner leaves, you won't find an ashtray on the table unless you ask, and the food is outstanding.
There is not much more that needs to be said. But I will elaborate further. The moment you enter you are welcomed by a smiling face at the reception (Chez David is also a pension) who will greet you with a cheery good evening (or afternoon). Then sitting down the hip Jewish humor in the menus pops out at you. And the waiters actually know the concept of suggestive selling.
My partner and I have not had a bad meal at this restaurant. During our most recent visit we enjoyed the chicken pie which had a light breaded coating on it served with applesauce and fresh salad. The fish soup that preceded tasted as authentic as gefilte fish (a special blend of whitefish and/or carp, pike, served traditionally as an appetizer in Jewish cooking). Chicken soup of course, is also included on the menu.
A fresh puree of broccoli and garlic dip is served to diners while they make a decision on what to imbibe. It is a delightful way to start off the meal. Two breads accompany it for tasting - the bread, yellowish, is Challah - also referred to as "cake" or "loaf" - good stuff!!
Chez David's atmosphere gives you the feeling of Jewish life. The Safer Torah (a scroll with the writings of the Old Testament) is displayed proudly in its glass case; the wall hangings include a Ketuba or marriage contract; there is a place to wash one's hands; Kipas (yamulkes for those of us who only know Yiddish and not Hebrew) the skullcaps worn by Jewish men are available; and the Mezuza or parchment is placed in a case and affixed just right of the entrance. Being the only Kosher restaurant in town makes this place truly unique.
Prejudices, yes, clearly we have a few in favor of this restaurant, but we know this would be our favorite restaurant even without our prejudices. More importantly, the menu contains items that should please any palate. Dinner for two without drinks or tip is around 400 Sk. The wine is expensive, and only small beers are on offer. But at least here you get something for the cover charge, from your elegantly presented table to the complimentary appetizer.
Author: Michel Litt, Graham Wood
