Café Zola

Café Zola stands as a beloved culinary institution in the heart of downtown Ann Arbor, Michigan, serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner to locals and visitors alike since March 1996. Founded by owners Hediye Batu and Alan Zakalik, this independently operated farm-to-table bistro takes its name from French writer Emile Zola, reflecting the French influences that originally shaped the breakfast and lunch menu. The dinner menu expands into Italian and Mediterranean territories, incorporating some Turkish recipes that honor the owners' heritage. The restaurant uses only the freshest ingredients, sourcing from carefully selected suppliers who provide the highest quality produce, dairy, eggs, poultry, meat, and seafood—organic whenever possible. Signature dishes include fluffy omelettes, delicate crêpes, golden waffles, fresh salads, hearty sandwiches, and elegant entrées. The dessert menu tempts with treats like Strawberry Banana Crêpe, Vanilla Panna Cotta with brandied cherries, Profiteroles, and the indulgent Nutella Banana. Café Zola serves fresh, strong coffee alongside espresso beverages and French press pots featuring rotating specialty beans. The tea selection is exclusively from TeaHaus in Ann Arbor, offering premium black, oolong, and green teas. The rotating wine collection is personally curated by owner Alan Zakalik from various vineyards. Indoor dining, patio seating, and carryout are available. Hours are Sunday through Thursday 8am to 10pm, and Friday and Saturday 8am to 11pm. Located at 112 West Washington Street in downtown Ann Arbor, the restaurant has developed a devoted following, with guests treated as family members.