Our neighborhood farmers markets are a weekly source of new wonders to discover, whether they be the seasonal produce changing by the week or the unique foods and flavors from a variety of vendors.
One such discovery this season is Zachi at the Tuesday and Saturday markets at Sheridan School (36th Street and Alton Place NW). We asked Zachi founder Safa Abdelkader to tell us about her business.
Zachi founder Safa and sister Juju sell their wares at the New Morning Farm Tuesday and Saturday markets at Sheridan School. (photos courtesy of Safa Abdelkader)
When you stop by the Zachi stand at the New Morning Farm market, you will be greeted by a friendly smile and the smell of fresh, home-baked bread, za’atar, and savory stuffed pies — every morsel crafted with the warmth and generosity that define Palestinian culinary culture.
Zachi offers both classic Palestinian dishes and creative twists, all handmade and baked daily. Try the whole wheat fatayer filled with spinach and herbs; “Mama” ghanoush, a smoky roasted eggplant dip; mujadara, a beloved dish of lentils, rice, and caramelized onions; our best-selling date cookies (Ka’ak bi Ajweh); and rose water rice pudding. Desserts are made without refined sugar. Gluten-free options will be available soon.
Healthy, wholesome ingredients are at the heart of Zachi. The olive oil comes from the trees on my family’s land, where they have been cared for and harvested by hand for generations. The fragrant spices also come from Palestine. Whenever possible, vegetables and herbs are purchased from New Morning Farm, combining fresh locally-grown produce with treasured ingredients from the homeland.
Zachi is a women-owned family business founded and run by me and my mother.
I’m one of six children. Growing up in the West Bank, the balcony just outside my grandmother’s kitchen overlooked our ancestral estate. Ancient olive trees loom alongside lemon and fig trees. Grapevines climb and spread, their leaves picked for waraq dawali (stuffed grape leaves).
The family’s land in the West Bank.
During the harvest season, family members gather to collect olives by hand, then transport them to the village press to be transformed into golden olive oil that flavors every meal.
Safa’s sister Juju in Palestine in 2024.
My mother took pride in feeding the household and extended family. In Palestinian villages, the kitchen is the heart of the dwelling and as a young girl, I watched my mother rolling grape leaves one by one, kneading dough, and cooking recipes passed down through generations.
Safa’s mother working her magic in the kitchen.
When I was 11 years old, my mother fell ill and sought medical treatment in the United States. I stepped up to fill her shoes, caring for my younger siblings and preparing dishes that brought comfort and stability during difficult times. The family recipes were a source of strength, resilience, and purpose.
In late 2019, I came to the United States seeking safety and opportunity. I entered high school while navigating a new language, an unfamiliar culture, and a global pandemic. Undeterred, I graduated magna cum laude from the University of San Francisco last winter, becoming the first U.S. college graduate in my family.
One Saturday, my mother had leftover fatayer she had made for a Janney Elementary School event. On her way back home, she stopped by the New Morning Farm market. She was invited to sell and sold out within minutes. The warm response from the farmers market staff and patrons inspired me to establish Zachi as a family business dedicated to sharing the best of Palestinian food, culture, and traditions.
In 2026, Zachi became a regular presence at the New Morning Farm market. Every bite and every bowl come with a side of conversation. The Zachi stand is a place where neighbors gather and friendships grow. As the spirit of warmth and generosity spreads, every customer is becoming part of the Zachi story, a story of resilience, tradition, and community.
Zachi is at the New Morning Farm market twice a week: Tuesdays 3 to 7 p.m. and Saturdays 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.
We accept online orders for catering, family meals and special requests, with delivery available inside the Beltway.
Visit zachi.lovable.app and sign up to Zachi’s newsletter to get seasonal menus, behind-the-scenes stories and market updates.
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Charlie says
This food is excellent, both healthy and delicious. I buy some every week, often twice a week. I highly recommend this business to all my neighbors in Forest Hills, Wakefield, Van Ness, and North Cleveland Park.
Juanita says
I’m so grateful for this article. I’ve been looking for Palestinian food in DC and I’m happy to learn about this woman owned small business. Looking forward to trying out the delicious food from Zachi.