Travel writing based on first-hand experience
Modern Tehran is a mix of the old and the new. That’s why, when you go looking for the best restaurants in Tehran, the options are endless. From classic Persian food in traditional eateries to sleek European-style restaurants and international cuisine—you can have whatever you’re craving.
To make things easier for you, we’ve gathered all the best restaurants in Tehran and information you’ll need to quickly find your favorite spot and spend more time enjoying your trip.
Planning more of your Tehran and Iran trip?
Tehran is not the kind of city where we eat one kebab, nod politely, and move on. Absolutely not. This is grand bazaars, mountain views, old-school Persian restaurants, polished hotel dining rooms, tea breaks, palace gardens, and the dangerous discovery that “just one more meal” is a perfectly valid itinerary strategy. If you’re building a fuller Iran trip around Tehran, these guides will help you connect the food with the city, the neighbourhoods, and the wider route.
- Top Things to Do in Tehran — the obvious next read for pairing restaurants with bazaars, palaces, museums, mountain views, and city wandering.
- Where to Stay in Tehran — useful if you want the right base for food, sightseeing, transport, and easy neighbourhood exploring.
- Iran Travel Tips — practical advice for visas, dress, safety, budgeting, transport, and the small things that make planning much easier.
- Best Places to Visit in Iran — ideal if Tehran is just the beginning and you want to add Isfahan, Shiraz, Yazd, Kashan, deserts, villages, and ancient sites.
- Isfahan Iran Guide — perfect if your Iran route continues south into tiled mosques, Persian gardens, historic bridges, bazaars, and another excellent food scene.
- Iran Travel Guides — handy for browsing all Iran posts in one place while your trip planning becomes wonderfully ambitious.
Table of Contents
Types of Restaurants in Tehran
Before picking a place for lunch or dinner with friends, it helps to know what kind of restaurant you’re even looking for.
Luckily, in a city like Tehran, you’re spoiled for choice. The variety here reflects its rich cultural mix—everything from kebab houses and cafés to fast food joints, garden restaurants, and international dining.
The key is knowing what kind of meal or setting you’re after—then narrowing it down. Our tip: start with that question and let it guide your search.
Best Restaurants in Tehran: The Best Kebabs
It’s Tehran—we have to talk about kebabs! You’ll find great kebabs all over Iran, but the sheer number of good kebab spots in the capital is on another level. If you’re someone who loves kebabs more than fast food or global cuisine, this city is your playground.
Nayeb Restaurant: A Legacy of Flavor
The Nayeb family has been making kebabs for over 150 years and are even credited with inventing the modern style of “chelo kebab.” Their original restaurant—Nayeb Saei—is one of the most luxurious in Tehran.
Their menu is filled with a wide variety of kebabs, but they also serve other dishes like dill rice with chicken and grilled salmon. Still, if it’s your first time, you absolutely have to try one of their signature kebabs. Every bite takes you through the taste history of Tehran.
Hani Restaurant Complex: Where Tradition Meets Trend
Another famous spot is Hani Restaurant, which has several branches across Tehran. The ones in Ghiamdasht, Ghiam, and Andarzgou are especially well-known.
Besides kebabs, Hani serves a wide range of stews and traditional dishes. Their salad bar is one of the best in the city—fresh, diverse, and super popular.
Prices are a bit on the higher side, but considering the quality, it’s worth it. Some branches, like Hani Parseh on Beheshti Street, even offer self-service counters.
Alborz Restaurant: Over 50 Years of Kebab Culture
Alborz is an iconic name in Tehran’s food scene. It’s been open since 1967 and has two dining halls—including a VIP section—perfect for special gatherings. Located centrally with good access, it’s a great spot to relax and enjoy a perfectly grilled meal.
Sharaf El Islami: A Slice of Old Tehran
Want to feel the soul of old Tehran? Head to Sharaf El Islami, a historic restaurant tucked inside Tehran Bazaar. Open since 1938, this spot is so loved that you might have to wait in line. The best time to visit is between noon and 1:00 PM to beat the crowd.
Moslem Restaurant: A Bazaar Favorite
Also located in the heart of Tehran’s Grand Bazaar, Moslem Restaurant is a legend. You don’t even need directions—just ask anyone in the market and they’ll guide you. The food is excellent, the atmosphere is lively, and the dishes range from kebabs to Persian classics like tahchin.
The place only opens for lunch—11 AM to 6 PM (5:30 PM on holidays)—so plan accordingly.
Best Restaurants in Tehran: Traditional Restaurants
Tehran is a city of many ethnicities and traditions, so it makes sense that its traditional restaurants reflect that diversity.
You’ll find them all over the city, often busiest during dinner hours. Here are two of the best:
Shandiz Jordan: Fancy Yet Familiar
Shandiz is one of the most famous names when it comes to Persian kebabs, and the Jordan branch is particularly popular. Open for lunch and dinner, it’s well-lit and full of energy—don’t expect a quiet, dim-lit spot. The interior is polished and refined, perfect for a celebration or fancy outing.
Best Restaurants in Tehran: Top International Restaurants
Want a break from Persian food? Tehran’s international scene has grown a lot in recent years.
Narenjestan Restaurant: Food with a View
Located on the 11th and 12th floors of the Sarv Tower in Sa’adat Abad, Narenjestan is known for its views and luxury vibe. They offer professional service (in multiple languages), a fine-dining atmosphere, and a mix of Persian and global dishes. Open daily for lunch and dinner.
Sky Lounge at Espinas Hotel
This one’s all about elegance. Located at the top of the Espinas Palace Hotel, the Sky Lounge offers incredible views, excellent food, and a beautiful, upscale atmosphere. A great place to celebrate or spoil yourself.
Tehran 360 Restaurant: Dining Above the City
How often do you get to eat 276 meters above ground? The restaurant at Milad Tower serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner with panoramic views of Tehran. It’s not cheap, but the experience—and the live music at night—make it totally worth it.
Kubaba Restaurant
With four branches across Tehran, Kubaba offers Middle Eastern, Turkish, and Arabic dishes in stylish settings.
FAQs: Dining in Tehran
Where are the best restaurants in West Tehran?
Try Cavalli or Binare for Italian, and Doreh for a cozy atmosphere.
Best birthday restaurants in Tehran?
Check out Deng Café, Sima Café, or Shamron Café. For an intimate birthday, Gol Rezaieh on Jomhouri is full of literary history.
Best cafés and hangouts?
Diamond Café, Nader Café, Lamiz branches, and Villa Street cafés top the list.
Best restaurants in Farahzad?
Look for Abshar (named after the river inside), Baghshe Hossein, Bagh-e Noor, Dehkadeh, and Zeytoon.
Top picks in North Tehran?
Shandiz Jordan, Taj Mahal (Indian), Dersa (Gholhak), and Le Chateau (French) all come highly recommended.
Where to eat in Tehranpars (East Tehran)?
Zarrin Luxury, Avisho, Hamsa Arabic Café, and Triangle Grill are all worth a visit.
- Where to Stay in Tehran (2026): Best Neighborhoods and Hotel Picks
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- Isfahan Iran (2026): A Complete Guide to the City of Stunning Islamic Architecture
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