ZipPicks Awards
Best Mediterranean in Soho
Best Greek in Soho
Master Critic Review
Balzem
7.9
Balzem, a Mediterranean wine bar that opened in Nolita in 2014, focuses on shareable tapas, flatbreads, and dips alongside an approachable European-leaning wine list. Reviews consistently call out its cozy, brick-lined room, sidewalk seating, and popular bottomless brunch as reasons it stays busy with neighborhood regulars and weekend visitors.
Must-Try Dishes:
Lamb chops, Hummus Balzem, Zucchini pancakes
Scores:
Value: 6.7
Service: 7.8
Consistency: 8.1
Food Quality: 8
Atmosphere: 8.9
Cultural Relevance: 7.3
What makes it special: Cozy Mediterranean wine bar with tapas, bottomless brunch, and patio.
Who should go: Couples and friends sharing small plates over wine or cocktails.
When to visit: Happy hour or weekend brunch for lively, crowded neighborhood energy.
What to order: Lamb chops, hummus Balzem, and zucchini pancakes with yogurt.
Insider tip: Reserve outdoor tables in good weather; inside gets loud quickly.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking is limited in Nolita, especially after 6pm; rely on nearby paid garages on Mott or Bowery if driving.
Dress code: Smart casual; most guests lean slightly dressy for wine-bar vibes, but jeans are common.
Noise level: Moderate to loud during peak hours; conversation is doable but can require raised voices indoors.
Weekend wait: 30–45 minutes without a reservation, longer during peak brunch weekends.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait, especially for indoor tables.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Good selection of mezze, salads, and flatbreads suitable for vegetarians.
Vegan options: Limited but workable—expect a few dips, salads, and vegetable plates; confirm dressings.
Gluten-free options: Several naturally gluten-free tapas and dips; flatbreads are not GF, and cross-contact is possible.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes—dim lighting, wine-focused service, and shareable small plates create an easy conversational flow. Indoors can be loud, so choose outdoor seating for a more relaxed first-date atmosphere.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Often yes on weeknights, but weekends fill quickly. For brunch or peak dinner hours, walk-ins may face a wait; outdoor tables book up fastest in good weather.
Is it kid-friendly? Not particularly—it's designed more for adults, wine bar crowds, and social gatherings. Older teens may be fine, but families with young children may find the space too tight and noisy.
Best For
Better for: Better than nearby Mediterranean spots for wine-centric grazing, cozy date-night ambiance, and a strong bottomless brunch draw.
Skip if: Skip if you want extensive entrées, very quiet dining, or strict dietary controls such as fully vegan or gluten-free–dedicated kitchens.