Vala Kitchen — Restaurant in Los Angeles

We were hesitant to eat at this place because it is new to us, in these days spending seventy plus dollars to just try something you may not like is not what we wanted to do, and also we had a couple of errands to do before dinner, but when we were passing by, the place smelled so good that we had to stop to take a look at the menu and considered trying it later, then a guy whom I guess was the owner came outside and invited us to come I and try the food, his energy was so welcoming that we went in and sat at a table, the place is beautiful and the color palette is relaxing. Then we decided to order to go, but we wanted go do our errands and pick up the food later, we asked our waitress who was so kind and accommodating that I can’t believe you can get that kind of service in Hollywood anymore. Later at exactly the time we agreed, the food was ready and it was all nice and warm. We ordered a Filet mignon kabob plate, the meat was tender and very well cooked, the veggies were amazing, the rice was abundant, we ordered a side of house salad and to me it was the best of the whole thing, you can tell it was made by someone who cares about the quality of the food they serve, it was clean, fresh and delicious. The only thing I missed was maybe a small side of some kind of house sauce or hummus or garlic yogurt, or something like that, I wouldn’t know what, but the meat the veggies and the rice were amazing anyway....

Amazing. The dolmas were exceptional. Not tart but actually a bit sweet with a rich filling not rice heavy. The lamb shank was falling off but buttery in texture. Outstanding flavor. A bit small compared to others I’ve had but taste made up for it. The Persian baklava was unique and well worth it. A great meal at an amazing price point. Go. You won’t be disappointed.

Update: I returned again to try something new. The owners are wonderfully hospitable and pointed me to a chickpea yogurt soup which was an explosion of flavor and is one of the unique dishes the restaurant offers. I had to know what was considered a signature dish. The owner mentioned kebobs torsh or sour kebob which I was assured was a unique offering. Now before anyone reading this passes judgement based on the dish name I can tell you this dish made from marinated filet is absolutely astonishing and, if they have it, it will blow you away with its tenderness and flavor. It is not to be missed and should be a dish that establishes this restaurant solidly in the LA scene. I have not had Persian food like this anywhere. The proprietors are welcoming and gracious. They know and are immensely proud of their food. You will enjoy the experience as well as the food and will be tempted to linger and...

Absolutely unforgettable experience — like being back home in Iran! From the moment you step into Vala Kitchen, you’re wrapped in a sense of calm and warmth that’s truly indescribable. The ambiance is not just peaceful — it’s deeply comforting, almost like walking into a cherished memory.

And the food… oh, the food. Every bite tastes like home. The Koobideh, Joojeh Kabab, Barg, and Soltani are incredibly tender and flavorful, cooked to absolute perfection. Their stews are rich, aromatic, and deeply satisfying. The Ash-e Doogh? Absolutely divine — light, tangy, and the perfect soul-soothing start to any meal.

They also offer a wonderful selection of vegetarian dishes, thoughtfully prepared and just as flavorful. Whether you’re plant-based or just exploring, you’ll feel cared for here.

What truly sets this place apart, beyond the exceptional dishes, is the genuine hospitality. Mohammad, Sam, and Farrouz aren’t just running a restaurant — they’re welcoming you into their family. Their kindness, generosity, and passion for what they do radiate through every detail.

You only need to try it once to fall in love. I came for the food — I stayed for...