Iran is famous for its rich history, stunning cities, and unforgettable cuisine. Persian food—featuring stews, kebabs, and saffron rice—is full of flavor and tradition. With such deep culinary roots, it’s no surprise the country boasts some of the best traditional restaurants in Tehran, offering locals and visitors an authentic taste of Persian cooking.
In this article, we’ll explore the top 5 Persian restaurants in Tehran, each known for serving authentic, time-honored dishes.
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Mandak Restaurant – A Luxurious Taste of Tradition
When it comes to traditional Persian cuisine, Mandak Restaurant easily takes the top spot. With glowing reviews on TripAdvisor, it’s rated the #1 restaurant in Tehran for traditional food—and for good reason. Located inside the prestigious Espinas Palace Hotel, Mandak offers an authentic yet refined experience of Iranian cuisine.
Famous for its warm, nostalgic ambiance and classical Persian décor, Mandak serves dishes like dizi, kebabs, and ghormeh sabzi, made with high-quality ingredients. The pricing is fair, especially considering the luxurious setting. The Espinas Palace Hotel is located in Saadat Abad, a wealthy, upscale area in northern Tehran known for its clean air, luxury homes, shopping centers, and proximity to the Alborz Mountains. If you’re interested in renting a place there, check out our full article about Saadat Abad.
Whether you’re visiting or a local craving a refined traditional meal, Mandak is a must-visit among traditional restaurants in Tehran.
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Dizi Restaurant – A Timeless Taste of Abgoosht
If you’re craving real Iranian comfort food, Dizi Restaurant (Dizi Sara) is the perfect spot. This cozy eatery is dedicated to Dizi (Abgoosht)—a classic stew made with lamb, beans, potatoes, and spices, served in a stone pot and enjoyed in two steps: sip the broth, then mash the rest with bread.
Located in District 6 near Iranshahr Street, it’s central, well-connected, and surrounded by cultural landmarks and transit options. If you’re considering living nearby read our article about Yousef Abad.
For hearty food lovers, Dizi is one of top traditional restaurants in Tehran.
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Shandiz Mashhad – Home of the Best Shishlik in Tehran
If you love juicy kebabs and Persian BBQ, Shandiz Mashhad is a must-visit. Located in District 3 on Saba Boulevard in the upscale Jordan area (Nelson Mandela Blvd), it’s famous for serving the best shishlik in Tehran.
Shishlik—marinated lamb ribs grilled over flame—is a Persian specialty from Mashhad. At Shandiz, it’s tender, flavorful, and a favorite for both locals and visitors. The elegant yet casual vibe makes it ideal for family meals or business lunches. Along with shishlik, they offer a full range of perfectly grilled Persian dishes.
Jordan is a luxury district known for high-rises, embassies, and fine dining. For premium kebabs in a classy setting, Shandiz Mashhad is a top pick the best traditional restaurants in Tehran.
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Divan Restaurant – Fine Dining with a Persian Soul
For a modern, luxurious take on Persian cuisine, Divan Restaurant on Fereshteh Street in Elahiyeh is a top choice. Known for its elegant atmosphere and excellent service, Divan offers both refined traditional dishes and vegan/vegetarian options.
Though pricier, the quality and luxury—from décor to plating—make it worth it. Elahiyeh is a wealthy, fashionable district favored by diplomats and celebrities.
For those seeking a refined dining experience, Divan stands out among one of the best traditional restaurants in Tehran.
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SPU Restaurant – A Scenic Feast Above the City
For great food and breathtaking views, SPU Restaurant in Darakeh is a must-visit. Perched above Tehran, it offers a full Persian menu with standout shishlik—tender, flavorful, and grilled perfectly. Its warm atmosphere makes it ideal for family gatherings.
Darakeh is a mountainous neighborhood known for fresh air, natural beauty, and hiking trails—a peaceful escape from the city. With stunning views and authentic dishes, SPU is one of the most memorable traditional restaurants in Tehran.
Conclusion
Iran’s rich culinary heritage thrives in Tehran. From Mandak and Divan’s elegance to Dizi’s coziness and the iconic flavors at Shandiz Mashhad and SPU, these top 5 traditional restaurants in Tehran offer unique ways to savor Persian cuisine. Whether you’re familiar with Iranian food or new to it, these restaurants deliver more than meals—they offer cultural experiences. Next time in Tehran, try one (or all) of these amazing spots and enjoy true Persian hospitality.
