The best Persian restaurants in London

The best Persian restaurants in London

Persian cuisine, also known as Iranian cuisine, is one of the oldest in the world, shaped by a long history dating back thousands of years and influenced by various civilisations. It's rich in herbs, fruits and fragrant spices and is renowned for its rich flavours, diverse ingredients, and centuries-old culinary traditions. Whether you're well-versed in the world of Persian fare or you want to try it for the first time, there are plenty of places to get your fix in London. Here's our guide to the best restaurants in the city serving delicious Persian cuisine.

In this guide
  1. The best Persian restaurants in London
    1. Persepolis – Shopping and dining
    2. Hafez – Plenty for veggies
    3. Patogh – Go for the pillowy flatbreads
    4. Hana – Local, authentic spot
    5. Berenjak – Persian in vibey Soho
    6. Iran Restaurant – Luxurious and accessible
    7. Caspian Restaurant – Family-run hot spot
    8. Alounak – BYOB Persian
    9. Sinuhe – Top spot for mezze
    10. Belgrave – Inspired by travels
    11. Sufi Restaurant – Authentic and fresh
    12. Naroon – Persian flavours in Marylebone and Fitzrovia
    13. Mohsen – Simple but sophisticated

The best Persian restaurants in London

Persepolis

Shopping and dining

Peckham's Persepolis is a haven for those searching for specific ingredients focusing on Persian fare. You can pick up all sorts here, such as crisp pickles, toasted nuts, fragrant spices, and sweets. You can also pick up artisanal treats and sturdy cookware. The place is artsy and funky, and they serve food. If you are in a group of five or more, you'll enjoy one of their feasting menus, which includes a variety of Middle Eastern dishes served family style.

Hafez – Persian restaurants
Hafez
Hafez – Persian restaurants
Hafez
Hafez – Persian restaurants
Hafez
Hafez – Persian restaurants
Hafez
Hafez – Persian restaurants
Hafez
Hafez – Persian restaurants
Hafez
Hafez – Persian restaurants
Hafez
Hafez – Persian restaurants
Hafez

Hafez

Plenty for veggies

Established in 1983, Hafez in Notting Hill serves authentic Persian cuisine in a quaint rustic setting. It's kitted out with eclectic decor, including utensil-clad walls and unique lampshades, and has an intimate, cosy vibe. This family-owned spot provides dine-in, takeaway, and catering services. The menu blends classic and modern Iranian dishes, emphasizing freshness and vegetarian options.

Patogh

Go for the pillowy flatbreads

Located in Marylebone, this traditional Iranian eatery is your go-to destination for oversized, pillowy flatbreads paired with Persian kebabs and creamy shallot yoghurt. With a cosy interior boasting only a few tables and additional seating outside, it's the perfect place to unwind with friends after a long day's work.

Hana

Local, authentic spot

Enjoy Persian cuisine in the warm and welcoming setting of Hana, located in West Hampstead. This quaint local spot oozes rustic charm and offers outdoor seating for alfresco dining. Explore the authentic menu featuring a range of hot and cold starters, including stuffed vine leaves, tiger prawns, and freshly-baked bread. Enjoy traditional stews and grilled meats for mains, accompanied by a wide selection of wines to complement your meal.

Berenjak

Persian in vibey Soho

Berenjak, a traditional Iranian gem, earns widespread praise for its freshly prepared mezze and kebabs. Located in buzzy Soho, this snug, vibrant restaurant invites you to mingle with other diners as you perch behind the counter and watch chefs craft familiar dishes. The creamy hummus made from black chickpeas, perfectly paired with freshly baked flatbreads, is a must-order. Limited pavement seating and tables in the charming garden-themed rear room provide more spaces to wine and dine.

Iran Restaurant

Luxurious and accessible

Iran Restaurant offers delicious dishes in an elegant space, serving some of the city's most coveted Persian cuisine. With both indoor and outdoor seating options, along with a private dining room, it caters to all. Enjoy luxurious caviar or traditional Persian dishes from a diverse menu. Starters include dishes like lentil soup and salad, while mains, including kebabs, stews, and curries, take centre stage.

Caspian Restaurant

Family-run hot spot

Whether you're a seasoned enthusiast of Persian cuisine or trying it for the very first time, Caspian Restaurant is a must. This family-run restaurant boasts an extensive menu of Persian dishes prepared with the freshest ingredients and free from artificial flavourings. The atmosphere is warm and welcoming, perfect for a catch-up dinner with a pal.

Alounak

BYOB Persian

Since 1995, Alounak has been serving authentic Persian cuisine in West London. Step into the sophisticated restaurant, featuring exposed brickwork, while being greeted by a waft of aromas and spices. Enjoy a variety of dishes, including salads, kebabs, hearty stews, daily specials, and classic desserts like baklava. While you can enjoy juices and hot beverages, note that Alounak operates under a BYOB (Bring Your Own Booze) policy for alcohol.

Sinuhe

Top spot for mezze

Sinuhe, located on Hereford Road in Notting Hill, is renowned for its exceptional Persian cuisine. Visitors flock here for the mezze experience, particularly drawn to the variety of dips offered, ranging from the yogurt-rich Masto-O-Khiar (an authentic Persian dip) to the classic tahini-infused hummus.

Belgrave

Inspired by travels

Belgrave, led by Chef Amin Ezra, is a modern Persian kitchen born from his deep-rooted culinary heritage. Drawing inspiration from his grandfather, mother, and travels across Iran and the Silk Road, Chef Ezra curates a menu that pays homage to traditional Persian cooking, using only the freshest ingredients. The restaurant exudes an authentic and stylish ambiance, adorned with Persian carpets and chandeliers and contemporary Persian music.

Sufi Restaurant

Authentic and fresh

Sufi Restaurant is your ultimate destination for experiencing authentic Persian cuisine. This trendy yet relaxed establishment offers a diverse menu featuring an array of traditional Persian dishes prepared with the finest and freshest ingredients. With options ranging from hearty stews and flavorful dips to succulent kebabs, there's something to satisfy every palate.

Naroon Marylebone Naroon Fitzrovia
Naroon Marylebone
naroon.co.uk
Naroon Fitzrovia
naroon.co.uk
Naroon Marylebone Naroon Fitzrovia

Persian flavours in Marylebone and Fitzrovia

Naroon is a beloved Persian restaurant in the heart of London, welcoming diners on a journey through Persian cuisine. From succulent kebabs to zesty stews and comforting rice dishes, Naroon combines traditional Persian flavours with creative twists. The restaurant boasts a stylish and cosy vibe, featuring modern, sleek decor and a cosy seating arrangement indoors and outdoors.

  • Kingsley Lodge, 17 New Cavendish St, Marylebone 65 Great Titchfield St., Fitzrovia
    Naroon Marylebone
    Kingsley Lodge, 17 New Cavendish St, Marylebone
    Naroon Fitzrovia
    65 Great Titchfield St., Fitzrovia
  • Naroon Marylebone
    naroon.co.uk
    Naroon Fitzrovia
    naroon.co.uk
    Naroon Marylebone
    020-792 064 42
    Naroon Fitzrovia
    020-792 064 44
  • Naroon Marylebone Naroon Fitzrovia

Mohsen

Simple but sophisticated

Founded in 1996, Mohsen Restaurant, a family-operated spot, has emerged as one of London's top destinations for Persian cuisine. Their commitment to using fresh ingredients shines through in their authentic dishes, ranging from juicy kebabs to classic stews and freshly baked bread. The restaurant's interior is simple and understated, creating the perfect setting for a relaxed dining experience with friends or family.

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Editors

At Thatsup, we have extensive experience of guiding our readers to a city’s hidden gems. Since 2008, our editors have been writing insightful guides covering restaurants, bars, cafes, hotels, and hairdressers, among other things. Our guides consist of carefully selected tips based on our local knowledge and are regularly updated with the help of our focus group, where we collectively discuss selections and content. We are constantly working to inspire and provide you with the best possible experience, no matter where you are or what you are looking for.