Zinga

Zinga's menu is a focused celebration of Antillean cuisine, particularly drawing from Guadeloupean culinary traditions. The kitchen's approach prioritizes authenticity and flavor over extensive variety, perfecting a core selection of dishes that represent the best of Caribbean comfort food.

The star of the menu is undoubtedly the fried chicken, which achieves that elusive combination of exceptionally crispy exterior and juicy, flavorful meat. This isn't just good fried chicken—it's chicken that demonstrates a deep understanding of technique and seasoning, with Caribbean spices adding complexity beyond the standard preparation. The kitchen's mastery of this dish alone justifies a visit.

The bokit represents Zinga's signature offering and showcases the restaurant's ability to honor tradition while adding personal touches. This Caribbean sandwich, traditionally made with fried dough, arrives stuffed with generous fillings. The spinach version with mayo and pikliz demonstrates the kitchen's skill in balancing textures and flavors—the creamy mayo tempers the heat of the pikliz (a spicy pickled vegetable condiment that's essential to Caribbean cuisine), while the spinach adds substance and freshness. For vegetarians, the mushroom bokit at €14 proves that plant-based options can be just as satisfying and flavorful as their meat-based counterparts.

Side dishes deserve attention beyond their supporting role. The sweet potato cubes arrive perfectly crispy, with a golden exterior giving way to creamy interior—they're addictive enough to order as a standalone snack. These sides, priced at €4-5, complement the main dishes while showcasing the kitchen's attention to detail across the entire menu.

The beverage program is equally authentic, focusing on rum-based drinks that are central to Caribbean culture. The homemade ti-punch and planteur cocktails, starting at €9, are crafted with care and proper technique. The selection of arranged rums (rhums arrangés) offers an opportunity to explore different flavor infusions, from traditional to creative combinations.

Desserts keep things simple and authentic with homemade coconut sorbet at €5—a refreshing, light conclusion that cleanses the palate and provides a genuine taste of the islands. The pricing throughout the menu remains remarkably accessible, with main dishes between €10-€14, making authentic Caribbean cuisine available without the premium often attached to specialized ethnic restaurants in Paris.