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From Diplomatic Tables to Your Seat at Ours.
Growing up in the Foreign Service, Zaria learned early on that food is the universal language of diplomacy. She watched her parents transform formal gatherings into spaces of genuine connection—a lesson that stayed with her from overseas kitchens to the DMV.
ZEST is the culmination of those years: a belief that service should be concise, plating should be intentional, and every guest should leave feeling like an old friend.
About
Michelin Technique, Home Intimacy.
Zaria’s culinary perspective was sharpened in some of the most prestigious kitchens in the country. With experience staging at Michelin-starred icons like minibar by José Andrés and Albi, she brings world-class techniques and beautiful pairings to a much more personal setting.
At ZEST, you aren't just getting a meal; you’re experiencing the craft of a professional kitchen served with the warmth of a family dining room.
About
Meet The Team
Behind every great menu is a great support system. Zaria is joined by her husband, Dave, who provides the "back-of-house" strength that allows ZEST to thrive. Together, they open their doors once a month to share their home, their favorite flavors, and their passion for community.
At ZEST Supper Club, every dinner is intentionally non-alcoholic, with thoughtfully crafted zero-proof pairings including non-alcoholic wines, cocktails, and spirits designed to compliment each menu. This approach creates space for a more intentional dining experience—one where flavor, seasonality, and detail take center stage. Whether you don’t drink or are simply exploring something different, each evening is designed to feel complete, elevated, and fully considered without alcohol.
Zaria Stott-Turner
Chef, Host & Culinary Director
Zaria is a Washington, D.C.–born creative raised across the globe as the child of Foreign Service diplomats. Inspired early by the art of gathering through her parents’ international hosting, she developed a deep love for food, service, and connection.
After earning a BA from Mitchell College and initially pursuing musical theater, Zaria found her way into the kitchen—largely self-taught and later refining her craft in kitchens across the DMV. Today, she channels her passion into her Supper Club, creating intimate, thoughtfully curated dining experiences where she continues to grow, host, and inspire.
Dave Turner
Director of Finances
Dave is a Native Washingtonian who is using his experience in creative problem solving, finance, and customer service to aid in materializing a shared vision of a space where people can find community. The most exciting parts of this journey are the flavors, faces, and conversations he get to enjoy.
Jessica Pavlick
Culinary Steward
Jess is a native Washingtonian who is grateful for the diversity, art and opportunity the DMV provides. She met Chef Zaria in 2018 on a mission trip to Kenya and enjoys supporting a fellow woman in business. She believes in the mission of ZEST in creating connection through the culinary arts.
Whether welcoming guests or supporting event operations, she is committed to helping create thoughtful and memorable dining experiences.
What We Stand On
Our culture is rooted in intentionality, intimacy, and inspiration. We believe meaningful connection doesn’t happen by accident—it’s built through care, presence, and shared energy. At ZEST, we prioritize depth over surface and growth over comfort, ensuring every seat at our table serves a purpose.
Zaria also features guest chefs from a range of culinary backgrounds, helping to round out and complement her diplomatic culinary perspective.
Intimacy
A smaller table, slower pace, and a space to truly connect and know everyone’s name in the room. Forget feeling lost in the crowd. Feel seen, feel heard, stay present. At our table, time slows down to share stories and turn strangers into familiarity.
Intentionallity
Every detail is chosen with care—from the menu to the playlist and the way the table is set. Nothing is accidental. Each gathering is designed to create a feeling, not just an evening.
Inspiration
An experience that lingers. Approachable food, conversations, and atmosphere, each night is meant to spark something—new ideas, new connections, or simply a deeper appreciation for a tight-knit gathering.
The Experience
