Taste of Tehran Restaurant — Restaurant in Los Angeles

I recently dined at Taste of Tehran in LA Westwood with my family, and unfortunately, the experience left much to be desired. Initially, everything appeared normal, but a series of incidents cast a shadow over our meal.

I ordered two Beef Koobideh dishes and requested an extra skewer for one of them to accommodate my 4-year-old. The staff assured me it wouldn't be a problem. However, when the food arrived, both plates contained three skewers each, turning my originally priced $16 plate into an unexpectedly hefty $40 plate. This pricing discrepancy was not only surprising but also felt misleading.

To add to the frustration, the bill came to a staggering $91 for two plates of food. The restaurant also implemented a $13 "SERVICE CHARGE," leaving me in a position where I was expected to tip on top of this mandatory charge. This approach felt deceptive and left a sour taste in my mouth.

Additionally, there was a discrepancy in the charges for a half rice and half salad option, as the restaurant charged $6 extra instead of the advertised $2 on their website. This inconsistency in pricing left me feeling taken advantage of and further contributed to the overall negative experience.

Attempting to address the issue, I requested to use the restroom, only to be told that it was not available. This response contradicted a clear sign indicating a "Customer Bathroom." The lack of transparency and unwillingness to accommodate a basic request added to the disappointment.

Regrettably, the food did not live up to expectations either, lacking the flavors and quality that one would hope for in a dining establishment. Overall, my visit to Taste of Tehran was marred by pricing discrepancies, unwarranted charges, uncooperative staff, and subpar food. It's safe to say that my family and I left feeling dissatisfied and...

So I only take time out of my day if I'm leaving a 1 star or 5 star. This place was worth the former.

Lets start with the food: Very pricey for the portions. As someone who grew up with a lot of Persian friends, I have been around this style cuisine a lot. Moreover, I've been to well over 15 Persian restaurants in my day. The food was very mediocre. The chicken breast kabob was super salty and the beef koobideh had a disgusting 'gamey' after taste (like it was mixed with lamb but not properly prepared). Meanwhile the Sharazi was super bland and a VERY small portion for the price they're asking. Also the waiter failed to mention it was an extra $8 for the substituting the Sharazi.

Next the ambiance/seating: I'm 6'2 and their children-size tables and backless stools were awkward and uncomfortable. Literally can't remember going to a place where no matter what I did- felt like I wanted to leave cause of how bad the seating is. Also it was super loud with some annoying music beating in my ear the whole time.

Service: The server was quick to take our order and bring food out which was about the only thing good about this place. They failed though when I asked about a bathroom to wash my hands and they replied, "You can go next door but you'd have to buy something from there." Like.. what? How has this establishment not been fined for having no public restroom? There are California laws put in place for a reason. It is definitely not a 'take-out' only place (which would exempt them). At least have some hand sanitizer.

All in all, I would never come back here. I am sure there are better Persian...

So, just as a side note before we start, watch where you park. They ticket super fast for street parking and it is only one hour. If you go beyond that, even a minute, you will have to pay a $63 fine. Yuck. But there is $4 parking near by which allows you more time.

Ok, on to the restaurant. Let's start with the food. I must say, my meal was delicious and I had the juiciest most flavorful chicken Kabob I think I have ever had. I loved it! And would go back for it. Now, they have many options for kabobs, in terms of meat. They all vary greatly in price. My meal came with long grained rice and a roasted tomato, and I added a salad for $2. Without the salad it was $15. Everything was so good, I would say it was worth the price. I can't speak for the other menu options, but there were no complaints at my table. They did also have many vegan options for dishes too. Also, for those of you who know, they do have bottled Mexican coke there, and it is excellent, they even pop the top for you.

Now, I must say we did have some confusion with one of the serving staff members. However, the owner was there and heard concern and was so kind and helpful. We weren't dismissed. They even gave us a little desert and tea as a peace offering and it ended up being a fantastic experience.

I will eat at this place again. Some of the dishes, like the lamb, are a little bit higher priced than I was looking for. However, because my chicken was so perfectly delicious I would be willing to spend the extra on the lamb to see what I get. They did a great job, and I am very please with the customer...