Here are some of the top restaurants you must visit in Iran, known for their authentic Persian cuisine, beautiful ambiance, and cultural experience:
1. Dizi Sara – Tehran
Specializes in Dizi (a traditional Persian stew). The atmosphere is traditional and rustic, offering an immersive Iranian food experience in the heart of the capital.
2. Shandiz Jordan – Tehran
Famous for its succulent lamb kebabs and luxurious setting. Popular among locals and tourists alike, especially for business lunches and family gatherings.
3. Moslem Restaurant – Tehran (Grand Bazaar)
Located in the bustling Grand Bazaar, this restaurant is known for generous portions and fast service. Dishes like Tahchin (baked saffron rice with chicken) are particularly popular.
4. Haft Khan Restaurant – Shiraz
A multi-level restaurant complex offering both traditional and modern Persian dishes. Each floor serves a different theme and style, making it a culinary destination.
5. Sharzeh Restaurant – Shiraz
One of the oldest restaurants in the city, located near Vakil Bazaar. Offers a wide variety of Persian stews, kebabs, and rice dishes in a traditional setting.
6. Khan-e Mozaffari – Yazd
A beautiful historical restaurant housed in a restored mansion, offering traditional Yazdi cuisine like Shuli (a type of soup) and Gheymeh Yazdi.
7. Silk Road Restaurant – Yazd
Popular among international travelers. It serves both Iranian and international food with a cozy rooftop view of the old city.
8. Malek-o-Tojjar Restaurant – Yazd
Located inside a historic hotel, this restaurant offers local specialties in a luxurious Qajar-era setting with stained glass and fine carpets.
9. Talar Yazd Restaurant – Yazd
Renowned for its Baghali Polo (rice with dill and beans) and lamb shank, with indoor and outdoor seating in a garden-like ambiance.
10. Shazdeh Restaurant – Isfahan
Offers a mix of Isfahani and general Persian dishes. Known for its artistic interior and well-prepared meals like Beryani, a local specialty.
11. Bastani Traditional Restaurant – Isfahan
Located near Naqsh-e Jahan Square. This restaurant is famous for its elaborate traditional decor and local cuisine, often featuring live Persian music.
12. Toranj Food Complex – Isfahan
A modern take on traditional Iranian dishes with high-end presentation and ambiance, perfect for fine dining enthusiasts.
13. Tabriz El Goli Restaurant – Tabriz
Set near the El Goli Park, this restaurant offers classic Azerbaijani dishes like Kabab Tabrizi and Koofteh Tabrizi.
14. Haj Ali Darvish Teahouse – Tehran
Although not a full restaurant, it’s one of the oldest and smallest teahouses in the world, offering a very authentic and historic experience.
15. Mozaffari Traditional Restaurant – Kerman
A hidden gem in the desert city of Kerman, offering local dishes such as Boz Ghormeh and Kerman-style kebabs.
16. Bagh-e Behzad Restaurant – Shiraz
A garden-style restaurant with fountains and traditional seating, known for its relaxing atmosphere and flavorful Persian dishes.
17. Karvan Restaurant – Mashhad
Located near the holy shrine of Imam Reza, it serves quality Persian food and is a favorite among pilgrims and tourists alike.
18. Shater Abbas Restaurant – Multiple Cities
A well-known chain that consistently delivers high-quality kebabs, saffron rice, and traditional stews across several cities.
19. Nayeb Restaurant – Tehran
An upscale and historic restaurant known for its perfect Chelow Kebab and a long-standing reputation of excellence.
20. Divan Persian Cuisine – Tehran
Offers an elegant dining experience with contemporary Persian cuisine, fusion dishes, and artistic presentation in a stylish atmosphere.