I recently decided to visit Layali Isfahan Restaurant, a hidden gem located on Hessa Street in Al Barsha 3, Dubai. Known for its Iranian food, this Iranian restaurant promised a culinary adventure. With a Google Maps rating of 4.3 stars from 542+ reviews, I was eager to taste their koobideh and other Persian traditional food. I ventured out to discover what makes this Persian restaurant a talked-about spot in the city. Join me as I explore the flavours and experiences that Layali Isfahan has to offer.
Location:
This restaurant is quite difficult to access due to its location on the outskirts of Dubai, far from Downtown, the Marina, or any major roads. Unless you have your own vehicle, which most locals do, or reside in the nearby area of Al Barsha, reaching this place is quite a challenge.
The location makes it hard to get to. For those relying on taxis or public transportation and not living nearby, visiting this place is highly inconvenient. The remote location significantly limits the ease of access for potential visitors, making it a poor choice in terms of location.
Star: No Star
Service:
When I arrived at the restaurant, the waiter informed me that there was a buffet available and showed me the buffet options. He walked me through the options one by one, which I appreciated. The restaurant is also nicely decorated, like it is someone’s home. You also got starters, soup, sides like mint and onions with whatever you order.
However, my experience with seating was less enjoyable. I wanted to sit at a particular table, but the waiter told me it was taken, even though it looked empty. I then pointed to another table, but was told again that it was not available. Later, I noticed some families arriving, and they were told they could sit anywhere they wanted. This inconsistency with the seating was frustrating and took away from an otherwise pleasant experience.
Star: Half Star
Pricing:
The plate of koobideh and rice is about 55 dirhams, so 11-12 pounds. The buffet is 90 dirhams. To me, those prices are standard, not economic nor outrageously expensive, especially for an all-you-can-eat buffet situation.
Compared to some other spots in Dubai that are real value at like 6-8 British pounds, this is more average pricing. Not amazing value but not too bad either.
Star: Half Star
Quantity:
I didn't get the usual plate of koobideh plate myself, preferring to go for the buffet offer, but saw someone near me order it and it looked like a really huge portion. Thankfully the koobideh from the buffet was just as large and thick as the normal al la carte version too. And with the standard koobideh, I could see you also got starters, soup, sides like mint and onions.
The quantity for the buffet was definitely very generous, as it should be if its an all you can eat buffet. I was struggling to finish by the end.
Star: Full Star
Quality:
The Ash reshteh soup starter was really tasty, and the bread was nice and fresh too. But for me, of course what matters most is the koobideh and rice quality. And I gotta say, it was actually excellent.
The koobideh had that distinct flavour and taste that so many other places miss, not being bland at all. It was juicy, oily and just recently grilled. Considering this was a buffet, the quality was surprisingly honestly outstanding.
Star: Full Star
Summary:
The standouts were definitely the high quality food, especially that flavorful koobideh, and the huge portions as it should be if you are getting a buffet. But the far location and just average pricing and service brought it down a bit.
If they could improve those weaker areas and perhaps move to a more central neighbourhood in Dubai, I think this restaurant could easily become one of the best Persian dining spots in the city. For now, it's a good option if you don't mind traveling to that side of town, or happen to be in the area
Star: 3 Stars out of 5
You can watch my full review on Youtube at Love Kabab Koobideh youtu....
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