London’s Persian dining scene is a feast of aromas, saffron, rosewater, sumac where tradition meets modern refinement.
From fragrant stews and chargrilled kebabs to jewel-like rice dishes, these ten restaurants offer a true taste of Iran’s culinary heart.
1. Kateh - Maida Vale’s Refined Persian Dining
Story: Founded by Dr. Ebrahim and Parvin Ghaffari, Kateh offers an elevated take on Persian home cooking, earning rave reviews from critics.
Signature Dishes: Fesenjan (pomegranate & walnut chicken stew), ghormeh sabzi (herb and kidney bean stew), saffron ice cream.
Ambience: Chic, intimate, and perfect for special occasions.
Address: 5 Warwick Place, London W9 2PX
2. Berenjak - Soho’s Persian Kebab House
Story: Inspired by Tehran’s hole-in-the-wall eateries, chef Kian Samyani reimagines Persian street food for Soho’s vibrant dining scene.
Signature Dishes: Jujeh kebab, koobideh, mast o khiar (yoghurt with cucumber and mint).
Ambience: Intimate, lively, with a view of the open grill.
Address: 27 Romilly Street, London W1D 5AL
3. Hafez - Bayswater’s Persian Pioneer
Story: Established in 1983, Hafez is one of London’s oldest Persian restaurants, run by the family of chef Ismail Zerouali.
Signature Dishes: Barg (fillet of lamb), tahchin (baked saffron rice cake with chicken), mast o musir.
Ambience: Traditional décor with a homely feel.
Address: 5 Hereford Road, London W2 4AB
4. Colbeh - Edgware Road’s Authentic Gem
Story: A popular spot for London’s Iranian community, Colbeh is known for generous portions and affordable, authentic Persian fare.
Signature Dishes: Gheimeh (split pea stew), lamb shank, ash reshteh (herb noodle soup).
Ambience: Simple, welcoming, with the aroma of fresh bread from the tandoor.
Address: 6 Porchester Place, London W2 2BS
5. Sufi - Shepherd’s Bush’s Saffron Sanctuary
Story: Serving West London since 2007, Sufi has built a reputation for fresh, aromatic Persian dishes with generous hospitality.
Signature Dishes: Zereshk polo ba morgh (barberry rice with chicken), ghormeh sabzi, grilled sea bass.
Ambience: Warm, colourful, and family-run.
Address: 70 Askew Road, London W12 9BJ
6. Mahdi - Hammersmith’s Persian Palace
Story: A vast, chandelier-filled restaurant with ornate Persian décor, Mahdi is ideal for big gatherings.
Signature Dishes: Mixed grill platters, baghali polo (dill and broad bean rice), joojeh kebab.
Ambience: Grand, spacious, and lively.
Address: 215–217 King Street, London W6 9JT
7. Persepolis - Peckham’s Persian Café
Story: Part café, part deli, Persepolis is run by Sally Butcher and serves a playful, vegetarian-friendly Persian menu.
Signature Dishes: Mezze platters, vegetarian fesenjan, baklava.
Ambience: Quirky, colourful, with shelves of Persian goods to buy.
Address: 28–30 Peckham High Street, London SE15 5DT
8. Ariana II - Kilburn’s Afghan-Persian Mix
Story: Though Afghan-run, Ariana II offers many beloved Persian classics alongside Afghan specialities.
Signature Dishes: Kabuli pulao, kebabs, sabzi polo.
Ambience: Simple, affordable, and always full.
Address: 241 Kilburn High Road, London NW6 7JN
9. Patogh - Marylebone’s Tiny Kebab Treasure
Story: Famous for its giant naan breads and juicy koobideh, Patogh is a small, no-frills spot loved by locals.
Signature Dishes: Koobideh, joojeh, grilled tomatoes with sumac.
