Washington's Best Persian Food [Updated 2025]

I’ve scoured the city, indulging in everything from tender kebabs to fragrant rice dishes, and let me tell you, it’s been a delicious journey! After reviewing 12 top-notch locations, I can confidently say that Washington’s Persian food scene has so much to offer—each dish tells a story, and every restaurant has its own unique flair.

You can trust my taste buds; I’ve navigated the bustling streets, chatted with chefs, and savored every bite. Whether you’re a long-time lover of Persian cuisine or a curious newcomer, I can’t wait to guide you through this vibrant culinary landscape. Get ready to tantalize your taste buds and discover your new favorite spot!

Rumi's Kitchen - DC

Highlights
Fantastic attentive service
Fresh and flavorful food
Memorable dining experience
Halal food options available
Perfect for large groups

Rumi's Kitchen - DC is a delightful gem that effortlessly wraps you in the warm embrace of Persian hospitality. Upon entering, I was immediately drawn to the atmosphere that exuded both charm and comfort. The attentive service made me feel as if I were a treasured guest in a family home rather than just another patron.

Now let’s talk about the food—oh, the food! Each dish is a celebration of bold flavors and fresh ingredients. I was particularly enamored with the lamb shank, which was perfectly tender and infused with aromatic spices. The saffron rice was the ideal complement, fluffy and fragrant, truly a highlight of my meal. Rumi's Kitchen is also proud to offer halal options, making it accessible to a wider audience.

What struck me most was the suite of choices available for large groups, making it an inviting spot for gatherings. The sense of community and warmth here is palpable, and it definitely contributes to a memorable dining experience. If you’re on the hunt for exquisite Persian cuisine, Rumi's Kitchen - DC is a must-visit!

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Kookoo Restaurant and Lounge

Highlights
Delicious and plentiful food
Heavenly cocktails available
Outstanding service experience
Authentic Persian ambiance
Fresh and flavorful dishes

When I stepped into Kookoo Restaurant and Lounge, I was instantly enveloped by the authentic Persian ambiance that greeted me at the door. The decor danced between traditional and modern, setting the perfect stage for a culinary adventure. As I opened the menu, I could hardly contain my excitement at the delicious and plentiful food offered, where every dish seemed to tell its own story.

I opted for the Joojeh Kabab, which was char-grilled to perfection, bursting with flavor that transported me straight to Iran. Each bite was a delightful experience, showcasing the fresh and flavorful dishes this restaurant is known for. The portions were generous, making it a feast for both the eyes and the palate.

But let's not overlook the drinks! The heavenly cocktails elegantly paired with my meal, adding a refreshing twist to the evening. The service was nothing short of outstanding, with attentive staff who made me feel like a valued guest. My experience at Kookoo was a splendid reminder of why Persian cuisine is so cherished. If you're looking to indulge in some of the best Persian food in Washington, this gem is a must-visit!

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Darvish Kitchen

Highlights
Mid-tier restaurant experience
Attentive and friendly staff
Flavorful herbs stew
Ideal for special occasions
Generous portion sizes

Darvish Kitchen is a delightful gem nestled in the heart of Washington, perfect for those who crave an authentic Persian culinary experience. From the moment I stepped inside, I was greeted by the friendly and attentive staff, who made me feel right at home. The ambiance struck a perfect balance between warmth and elegance, making it an ideal spot for special occasions.

One dish that truly stole my heart was the herbs stew, bursting with flavors that danced on my palate. The careful infusion of aromatic herbs made each bite a celebration of traditional Persian cuisine. I was pleasantly surprised by the generous portion sizes, ensuring that you won’t leave feeling hungry—unless you decide to indulge in one of their scrumptious desserts!

Whether you're a newcomer to Persian food or a seasoned lover of this cuisine, Darvish Kitchen is sure to leave a lasting impression. I found myself enchanted by the artistry on my plate, coupled with the delicious hospitality. If you're searching for a dining experience that combines culinary excellence and cozy charm, look no further than Darvish Kitchen. It’s a place I would happily return to time and again!

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Divan Restaurant

Highlights
Excellent and attentive service
Tender grilled octopus
Hearty Khoresht Gheimeh Bademjan
Perfect atmosphere for dining
Delicious Persian tea

Divan Restaurant is an enchanting gem that truly captures the essence of Persian cuisine in Washington. From the moment I stepped in, I was greeted with excellent and attentive service that set the tone for an unforgettable meal.

As I browsed the menu, the grilled octopus piqued my interest, and let me tell you, it did not disappoint! The tender pieces were perfectly charred and bursting with flavor, making each bite a delightful journey. Following that, I indulged in the Khoresht Gheimeh Bademjan, a hearty stew that warmed my soul. Its rich flavors and comforting textures made it the kind of dish you'd want to curl up with on a chilly evening.

The atmosphere at Divan provides an inviting ambiance for both intimate dinners and family gatherings, with every detail thoughtfully curated. To finish off my meal, I enjoyed a cup of delicious Persian tea, a soothing complement that beautifully rounded out my dining experience.

In a city overflowing with dining options, Divan Restaurant stands out as a must-visit destination for anyone keen on exploring the best of Persian cuisine in Washington.

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Amoo's Restaurant

Highlights
Incredibly tender kabobs
Delicious eggplant starters
Flavorful Persian rice
Saffron ice cream dessert
Kind and welcoming staff

At Amoo's Restaurant, I felt like I had stepped into a Persian treasure trove, bursting with flavors and hospitality. As I settled in, the aroma of grilling kabobs danced around me, promising a delightful meal ahead. I couldn’t resist starting with the eggplant starters, and let me tell you, they were a revelation! The smooth, smoky puree was just the right amount of rich, setting the tone for the culinary adventure to come.

When the kabobs arrived, they were incredibly tender and grilled to perfection. Each bite melted in my mouth, marrying beautifully with the flavorful Persian rice, which was expertly seasoned and fluffy. I was transported to a bustling bazaar with every forkful!

As my meal came to a sweet conclusion, the saffron ice cream dessert stole the show. Creamy and aromatic, this indulgent treat brought the perfect touch of luxury to my experience.

Throughout my visit, the kind and welcoming staff made me feel right at home, adding a personal touch to my evening. Amoo's Restaurant isn’t just another spot; it’s a culinary oasis that celebrates authentic Persian cuisine with love and care. I left with a satisfied palate and a big smile!

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Kabob Bazaar

Highlights
Special Kalleh Pache Saturdays
Juicy and Flavorful Kebabs
Outstanding Warm Hospitality
Cozy Atmosphere
Excellent Service

I recently had the pleasure of visiting Kabob Bazaar, and let me tell you, it was a delightful culinary adventure! Nestled in the heart of Washington, this gem of a restaurant has earned its stripes as a must-visit for anyone craving authentic Persian cuisine.

On Saturdays, they host the special Kalleh Pache feast, which is a true indulgence for the senses. The dish is rich and aromatic, bringing a taste of Persian tradition straight to your plate. I couldn’t resist trying their juicy and flavorful kebabs – each skewer was perfectly grilled, bursting with marinated goodness that danced on my taste buds.

What truly sets Kabob Bazaar apart is their outstanding warm hospitality. From the moment I walked in, I was greeted with sincere smiles and a welcoming atmosphere that made me feel right at home. The cozy ambiance enhanced my dining experience, allowing me to savor my meal at leisure.

With efficient service and amazing dishes, I can confidently say that Kabob Bazaar is a shining star in Washington's Persian food scene. If you're seeking a delightful, flavorful escape, this charming spot is where you’ll want to be!

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Joon

Highlights
Energetic dining atmosphere
Top-notch, attentive service
Authentic Persian flavors
Unique cocktail offerings
Charming decor ambiance

I had the pleasure of dining at Joon in Washington, and let me tell you, it was a feast for all the senses! As soon as I stepped inside, I was enveloped in an energetic dining atmosphere that buzzed with a blend of laughter and clinking dishes. The décor is charming, creating an inviting space that felt like a warm hug.

Now, let’s talk about the food—pure Persian magic! Each dish was a delightful homage to traditional flavors, executed with flair and authenticity. The attentive service truly elevated the experience; the staff made you feel right at home while guiding you through the menu and recommending mouthwatering options.

To top it all off, Joon offers unique cocktail creations that perfectly complement the vibrant culinary journey. Sip on a carefully crafted drink while savoring every bite and you'll see why this spot stands out among the many Persian restaurants in the area.

Overall, Joon is an absolute gem. If you're in search of an authentic Persian experience infused with lively energy and a touch of elegance, don’t miss out on this culinary delight in Washington!

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Maydan

Highlights
Eclectic and cozy ambiance
Incredible Tawle tasting menu
Outstanding and friendly service
Flavorful and well-balanced dishes
Vibrant and welcoming atmosphere

Review of Maydan: A Persian Culinary Adventure

Stepping into Maydan is like wandering into a vibrant bazaar of flavors, where the essence of Persian cuisine dances through the air. The cozy ambiance instantly captivates you, making it the perfect spot for an intimate gathering or a lively dinner with friends. As a lover of all things culinary, I was particularly thrilled to dive into their incredible Tawle tasting menu, which is a glorious parade of shared dishes.

From the flavorful kebabs that explode with spices to the well-balanced stews that warm the soul, each item felt like a love letter to Persian culture. The outstanding and friendly service was the cherry on top—staff members were genuinely invested in our experience, guiding us through the menu with infectious enthusiasm.

As I savored each bite, the vibrant atmosphere of Maydan kept me smiling. It’s a place where food, friendship, and laughter unite, and I left feeling not just satisfied, but enriched by the flavors and warmth that surrounded me. If you’re searching for the best Persian food in Washington, look no further than Maydan. You won’t just eat here; you’ll experience a celebration of culture and taste!

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Dolan Uyghur Restaurant

Highlights
Incredible, flavorful dishes
Welcoming and attentive service
Delightful dessert selection
Convenient QR menu access
Perfect location near attractions

Dolan Uyghur Restaurant has truly captured my heart—and my taste buds! From the moment I stepped through the door, the welcoming atmosphere wrapped around me like a warm blanket. The staff greeted me with friendly smiles and attentive service, setting the tone for an unforgettable meal.

Now, let’s talk about the food! The flavorful dishes left me in a delightful daze. I savored their signature kebabs, perfectly marinated and grilled to juicy perfection. Each bite was bursting with spices that danced on my palate, pulling me into a culinary wonderland.

And don’t get me started on the dessert selection! With every sweet treat, I felt as if I were indulging in something special, a true testament to their culinary artistry. The convenient QR menu added a modern touch, making it easy to explore the tantalizing offerings.

Nestled conveniently near top attractions, Dolan Uyghur Restaurant is a must-visit for anyone craving a sublime Persian dining experience. Whether you’re a local or touring Washington, this delightful gem promises a dining adventure that you won’t soon forget!

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Moby Dick House of Kabob

Highlights
Affordable meal options
Friendly cashier service
Variety of food choices
Quick takeout experience
Simple interior design

Moby Dick House of Kabob is a delightful gem in Washington where the fragrant allure of Persian cuisine beckons you from the moment you step inside. Just a stone’s throw away from the bustle of the city, this place offers an affordable meal without compromising on quality. The friendly cashier greeted me with a warm smile, making me feel right at home as I perused their extensive menu.

I was particularly impressed by the variety of choices available. From juicy koobideh to succulent chicken kabobs, there’s something here for every palate. I opted for the classic lamb kabob, which arrived promptly in a delightful takeout package, perfect for a quick lunch on the go. The blend of spices and tenderness was simply divine!

While the simple interior design might not win any awards, it adds to the cozy charm of the establishment. Moby Dick proves that you don’t need frills to serve fantastic food. Overall, my experience was delightful, and I can confidently say this spot is a must-visit for anyone seeking the best Persian flavors in Washington. I left with a happy belly and a smile, eager to return for another culinary adventure!

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Bistro Aracosia

Highlights
Rich and flavorful dishes
Excellent dumpling assortment
Amazing cardamom milk cake
Friendly and polite service
Cozy and inviting atmosphere

Visiting Bistro Aracosia was like stumbling into a delicious Persian treasure. The moment I stepped inside, the cozy and inviting atmosphere wrapped around me like a warm embrace. The friendly and polite service was the cherry on top, as the staff greeted me with genuine smiles and a great eagerness to introduce me to their culinary delights.

As I navigated the menu, I was treated to a delightful assortment of rich and flavorful dishes that truly captured the essence of Persian cuisine. I couldn't resist trying their dumplings, which were simply delightful—each bite bursting with an incredible medley of spices and textures.

But what really stole the show was their amazing cardamom milk cake. Oh, the flavors danced on my palate like a joyous celebration! The perfect balance of sweetness with the comforting essence of cardamom made for an unforgettable dessert experience.

In short, Bistro Aracosia is a must-visit for anyone seeking top-notch Persian food in Washington. With its enchanting dishes and warm ambiance, it’s not just a meal; it’s an experience waiting to be savored!

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Alborz Restaurant

Highlights
Disappointing food quality
Bland, poorly prepared dishes
Not worth the price
Delicious Persian ice cream
Gheymeh bademjoon missed mark

Alborz Restaurant Review

When I stepped into Alborz Restaurant, I had high expectations for an authentic Persian culinary journey, but unfortunately, my taste buds weren’t invited to the party. The ambiance felt inviting, yet the food quality left much to be desired.

Starting with the Gheymeh Bademjoon, I was eager for that deep, savory explosion of flavors—but it felt more like a damp squib. The dish lacked the hearty richness I longed for, showcasing the kind of blandness that makes you wonder if the chef was in a hurry.

Although most of the dishes were regrettably underwhelming, I stumbled upon a sweet surprise—Persian ice cream! This frosty delight was a saving grace, rich with saffron and rosewater delights that danced on my palate. It’s the silver lining in an otherwise cloudy meal.

In the grand tapestry of Persian cuisine, Alborz sadly missed the mark for me. While the restaurant has potential, the underwhelming dishes coupled with high prices made it a dining experience I can't wholeheartedly recommend. However, that ice cream? Definitely worth a visit on its own!

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