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Darband Persian Grill — Restaurant in San Diego

Name
Darband Persian Grill
Description
Unpretentious place offering Persian fare, including kebab plates & charbroiled meats.
Nearby attractions
Waterfront Park
1600 Pacific Hwy, San Diego, CA 92101
Waterfront Park Playground
1400-1496 Pacific Hwy, San Diego, CA 92101
San Diego Firehouse Museum
1572 Columbia St, San Diego, CA 92101
Maritime Museum of San Diego
1492 N Harbor Dr, San Diego, CA 92101
Star of India
1492 N Harbor Dr, San Diego, CA 92101
Piazza della Famiglia
523 W Date St, San Diego, CA 92101
Stefanie Bales Fine Art
1504 India St, San Diego, CA 92101
Little Italy Street Sign
1731 India St, San Diego, CA 92101
Amici Park
1660 Union St, San Diego, CA 92101
M WINEHOUSE
1918 India St, San Diego, CA 92101
Nearby restaurants
King and Queen Cantina
1490 Kettner Blvd, San Diego, CA 92101
Craft & Commerce
675 W Beech St, San Diego, CA 92101
Harbor Breakfast
1502 India St, San Diego, CA 92101
Isola Pizza Bar
1526 India St, San Diego, CA 92101
Petrini's San Diego
610 W Ash St #100, San Diego, CA 92101, United States
Vinarius Wine Bar & Restaurant
1445 India St, San Diego, CA 92101
Shino Sushi + Kappo
838 W Ash St, San Diego, CA 92101, United States
Allegro Restaurant and Bar
1536 India St, San Diego, CA 92101
Ironside Fish & Oyster
1654 India St, San Diego, CA 92101
Buon Appetito Restaurant
1609 India St, San Diego, CA 92101
Nearby hotels
Hampton Inn San Diego-Downtown
1531 Pacific Hwy, San Diego, CA 92101
Best Western Plus Bayside Inn
555 W Ash St, San Diego, CA 92101
Wyndham San Diego Bayside
1355 N Harbor Dr, San Diego, CA 92101
Carte Hotel San Diego Downtown, Curio Collection by Hilton
401 W Ash St, San Diego, CA 92101
The Dutra Inn
680 W Beech St, San Diego, CA 92101
Urban Boutique Hotel
1654 Columbia St, San Diego, CA 92101
Kasa Little Italy San Diego
1331 Columbia St, San Diego, CA 92101
Residence Inn by Marriott San Diego Downtown
1747 Pacific Hwy, San Diego, CA 92101
La Pensione Hotel
606 W Date St, San Diego, CA 92101
Hotel Republic San Diego, Autograph Collection
421 W B St, San Diego, CA 92101
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Darband Persian Grill
United StatesCaliforniaSan DiegoDarband Persian Grill

Basic Info

Darband Persian Grill

1450 Kettner Blvd, San Diego, CA 92101
4.2(425)
Save
spot

Ratings & Description

Info

Unpretentious place offering Persian fare, including kebab plates & charbroiled meats.

attractions: Waterfront Park, Waterfront Park Playground, San Diego Firehouse Museum, Maritime Museum of San Diego, Star of India, Piazza della Famiglia, Stefanie Bales Fine Art, Little Italy Street Sign, Amici Park, M WINEHOUSE, restaurants: King and Queen Cantina, Craft & Commerce, Harbor Breakfast, Isola Pizza Bar, Petrini's San Diego, Vinarius Wine Bar & Restaurant, Shino Sushi + Kappo, Allegro Restaurant and Bar, Ironside Fish & Oyster, Buon Appetito Restaurant
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Phone
(619) 230-1001
Website
5thavenuegrill.com

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Featured dishes

View full menu
MAUST-O-KHIAR
Mixture of plain yogurt & chopped cucumber, flavored with mint.
MAUST-O-MOOSIER
Delicious plain yogurt flavored with chopped shallots.
KASHK-E-BADEMJAN
Sautéed cooked baby eggplant mixed with Whey, flavored with sautéed onion, garlic & mint.
DOLMEH
Cooked grape leaves stuffed with rice tarragon, onion, basil, parsley and fresh herbs.
TORSHI
Traditionally mixed and aged pickles, carrots, cauliflower, eggplant, and herbs in grape vinegar.

Reviews

Nearby attractions of Darband Persian Grill

Waterfront Park

Waterfront Park Playground

San Diego Firehouse Museum

Maritime Museum of San Diego

Star of India

Piazza della Famiglia

Stefanie Bales Fine Art

Little Italy Street Sign

Amici Park

M WINEHOUSE

Waterfront Park

Waterfront Park

4.7

(3.9K)

Open until 10:00 PM
Click for details
Waterfront Park Playground

Waterfront Park Playground

4.7

(230)

Open 24 hours
Click for details
San Diego Firehouse Museum

San Diego Firehouse Museum

4.7

(123)

Open until 4:00 PM
Click for details
Maritime Museum of San Diego

Maritime Museum of San Diego

4.7

(2.3K)

Open 24 hours
Click for details

Things to do nearby

San Diego Donut Tour: Sweet Sites & Tasty Bites
San Diego Donut Tour: Sweet Sites & Tasty Bites
Sat, Dec 6 • 12:00 PM
San Diego, California, 92101
View details
Ride to Live - Motorcycle Training
Ride to Live - Motorcycle Training
Sat, Dec 13 • 8:00 AM
5000 State Route 75, Coronado, CA 92118
View details
Kayak in La Jolla
Kayak in La Jolla
Sat, Dec 6 • 12:00 PM
San Diego, California, 92037
View details

Nearby restaurants of Darband Persian Grill

King and Queen Cantina

Craft & Commerce

Harbor Breakfast

Isola Pizza Bar

Petrini's San Diego

Vinarius Wine Bar & Restaurant

Shino Sushi + Kappo

Allegro Restaurant and Bar

Ironside Fish & Oyster

Buon Appetito Restaurant

King and Queen Cantina

King and Queen Cantina

4.5

(2.6K)

$$

Open until 1:00 AM
Click for details
Craft & Commerce

Craft & Commerce

4.5

(880)

Click for details
Harbor Breakfast

Harbor Breakfast

4.3

(943)

Click for details
Isola Pizza Bar

Isola Pizza Bar

4.4

(693)

Click for details
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The hit list

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Reviews of Darband Persian Grill

4.2
(425)
avatar
5.0
3y

I had the most incredible dining experience at Darband Persian restaurant in Little Italy, San Diego. From the moment I walked in, the warm and inviting ambiance immediately put me at ease. The restaurant's elegant decor and cozy atmosphere made it the perfect place to enjoy a delightful meal.

Now, let's talk about the food – it was truly outstanding! Darband offers the best Persian cuisine I've ever tasted. Every dish was a burst of authentic flavors and impeccable seasoning, leaving me craving for more. The kebabs were succulent and grilled to perfection, and the saffron-infused rice was a heavenly accompaniment. The chef's dedication to using top-quality ingredients was evident in every bite, and the attention to detail in the presentation made the dishes even more enticing.

The service was impeccable, with the staff being attentive and friendly throughout the entire meal. They were knowledgeable about the menu and offered excellent recommendations, enhancing the overall dining experience.

Another notable aspect was the generous portions, ensuring that no one leaves the restaurant unsatisfied. Despite the fantastic quality, the prices were reasonable, making Darband a great value for the exceptional food they offer.

If you're a fan of Persian cuisine or looking to try something new, I can't recommend Darband enough. It's a hidden gem in Little Italy, San Diego, and a culinary journey that will leave you with a lasting impression. I can't wait to return and indulge in more of their...

   Read more
avatar
1.0
7y

The service here as changed over the past year. The previous owner Tony is no longer there. The current owner is very rough around the edges and rude. I watched him disrespect a client that made an order. The customer asked him for a combination and also asked that he does not want salad. Instead he would like rice in that section of his plate. When Tony handled customers this was never an issue and it was clear from the beginning. This guy however charged the client an extra 5 bucks for the rice substituting the salad. The customer questioned the extra charge and the current owner told him that it's not the owners fault that the customer did not understand. He said that I can't teach you English and how to order. I can only show you a visual aid to help you understand.

Seeing this really seemed disheartening. I never left a review explaining this situation.

I visited this place again to give it a second shot. This time, he swiped my credit card and than instead of handing it over to me... he throws it across the counter. I didn't get angry. I gave him the benefit of the doubt that maybe he meant to hand it and it slipped and pushed over. However, the guy never apologized. He acted as if nothing happened and I had to pick up my card off the ground in disbelief? My friend was to the point of wanting to smash the guy but I told him that oh he try to hand it and it slipped. Trust me you don't want my friend beating on another man he's an animal.

That's pretty much it. Don't go here if you want...

   Read more
avatar
2.0
45w

The food was subpar. I was astonished by the quality of the dishes served to us. We left the food at the table, having taken only a couple of bites. Despite being famished from not eating all day, we couldn't continue. The meat tasted stale, and the overall flavor was unimpressive. This experience was particularly disappointing, as Darband had been a favorite of mine, especially the location on Fifth Avenue, which I had visited at least weekly. I am unsure whether the establishment has undergone a change in ownership or altered their recipe, but the food was undeniably subpar. Furthermore, upon leaving, the gentleman did not express gratitude or apologize for our dissatisfaction. Notably, we did not request take-out boxes, a departure from our usual practice. I was genuinely saddened by the decline in food quality, although the gentleman at the counter was courteous. Unfortunately, this establishment seems to be lacking in some respects. Clearly if you look at the negative reviews from Middle Eastern people, they’re saying that it’s really blended. It doesn’t taste well you can look on yelp and you can see other reviews. I highly suggest...

   Read more
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Posts

Sayvin DalooSayvin Daloo
I had the most incredible dining experience at Darband Persian restaurant in Little Italy, San Diego. From the moment I walked in, the warm and inviting ambiance immediately put me at ease. The restaurant's elegant decor and cozy atmosphere made it the perfect place to enjoy a delightful meal. Now, let's talk about the food – it was truly outstanding! Darband offers the best Persian cuisine I've ever tasted. Every dish was a burst of authentic flavors and impeccable seasoning, leaving me craving for more. The kebabs were succulent and grilled to perfection, and the saffron-infused rice was a heavenly accompaniment. The chef's dedication to using top-quality ingredients was evident in every bite, and the attention to detail in the presentation made the dishes even more enticing. The service was impeccable, with the staff being attentive and friendly throughout the entire meal. They were knowledgeable about the menu and offered excellent recommendations, enhancing the overall dining experience. Another notable aspect was the generous portions, ensuring that no one leaves the restaurant unsatisfied. Despite the fantastic quality, the prices were reasonable, making Darband a great value for the exceptional food they offer. If you're a fan of Persian cuisine or looking to try something new, I can't recommend Darband enough. It's a hidden gem in Little Italy, San Diego, and a culinary journey that will leave you with a lasting impression. I can't wait to return and indulge in more of their best-in-class dishes!"
Cecilia SalmanCecilia Salman
The food was subpar. I was astonished by the quality of the dishes served to us. We left the food at the table, having taken only a couple of bites. Despite being famished from not eating all day, we couldn't continue. The meat tasted stale, and the overall flavor was unimpressive. This experience was particularly disappointing, as Darband had been a favorite of mine, especially the location on Fifth Avenue, which I had visited at least weekly. I am unsure whether the establishment has undergone a change in ownership or altered their recipe, but the food was undeniably subpar. Furthermore, upon leaving, the gentleman did not express gratitude or apologize for our dissatisfaction. Notably, we did not request take-out boxes, a departure from our usual practice. I was genuinely saddened by the decline in food quality, although the gentleman at the counter was courteous. Unfortunately, this establishment seems to be lacking in some respects. Clearly if you look at the negative reviews from Middle Eastern people, they’re saying that it’s really blended. It doesn’t taste well you can look on yelp and you can see other reviews. I highly suggest researching this place.
V SV S
Truly a gem for authentic Persian cuisine in downtown San Diego. The name “Darband” itself carries legacy, and after dining here, it's clear why they've been around since 1998. We stopped in and ordered their signature kabob plate — juicy, flavorful koobideh and well-charred chicken served alongside perfectly fluffed saffron rice and grilled vegetables. As seen in the photos, every element on the plate was executed with care. The chicken in particular stood out for its tenderness and bold seasoning. The market section of the restaurant also has a fun mix of imported items and snacks — everything from dried mulberries and raisins to lavash bread, fresh juices, and soda options. A great touch if you want to bring a little taste of the cuisine home with you. Atmosphere is clean, casual, and inviting. While it's a simple setup, the focus is clearly on the food and authenticity. Will definitely return when back in the area. Highly recommend for anyone looking for a solid Persian food experience.
See more posts
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hotel
Find your stay

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Find a cozy hotel nearby and make it a full experience.

I had the most incredible dining experience at Darband Persian restaurant in Little Italy, San Diego. From the moment I walked in, the warm and inviting ambiance immediately put me at ease. The restaurant's elegant decor and cozy atmosphere made it the perfect place to enjoy a delightful meal. Now, let's talk about the food – it was truly outstanding! Darband offers the best Persian cuisine I've ever tasted. Every dish was a burst of authentic flavors and impeccable seasoning, leaving me craving for more. The kebabs were succulent and grilled to perfection, and the saffron-infused rice was a heavenly accompaniment. The chef's dedication to using top-quality ingredients was evident in every bite, and the attention to detail in the presentation made the dishes even more enticing. The service was impeccable, with the staff being attentive and friendly throughout the entire meal. They were knowledgeable about the menu and offered excellent recommendations, enhancing the overall dining experience. Another notable aspect was the generous portions, ensuring that no one leaves the restaurant unsatisfied. Despite the fantastic quality, the prices were reasonable, making Darband a great value for the exceptional food they offer. If you're a fan of Persian cuisine or looking to try something new, I can't recommend Darband enough. It's a hidden gem in Little Italy, San Diego, and a culinary journey that will leave you with a lasting impression. I can't wait to return and indulge in more of their best-in-class dishes!"
Sayvin Daloo

Sayvin Daloo

hotel
Find your stay

Affordable Hotels in San Diego

Find a cozy hotel nearby and make it a full experience.

Get the Appoverlay
Get the AppOne tap to find yournext favorite spots!
The food was subpar. I was astonished by the quality of the dishes served to us. We left the food at the table, having taken only a couple of bites. Despite being famished from not eating all day, we couldn't continue. The meat tasted stale, and the overall flavor was unimpressive. This experience was particularly disappointing, as Darband had been a favorite of mine, especially the location on Fifth Avenue, which I had visited at least weekly. I am unsure whether the establishment has undergone a change in ownership or altered their recipe, but the food was undeniably subpar. Furthermore, upon leaving, the gentleman did not express gratitude or apologize for our dissatisfaction. Notably, we did not request take-out boxes, a departure from our usual practice. I was genuinely saddened by the decline in food quality, although the gentleman at the counter was courteous. Unfortunately, this establishment seems to be lacking in some respects. Clearly if you look at the negative reviews from Middle Eastern people, they’re saying that it’s really blended. It doesn’t taste well you can look on yelp and you can see other reviews. I highly suggest researching this place.
Cecilia Salman

Cecilia Salman

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Truly a gem for authentic Persian cuisine in downtown San Diego. The name “Darband” itself carries legacy, and after dining here, it's clear why they've been around since 1998. We stopped in and ordered their signature kabob plate — juicy, flavorful koobideh and well-charred chicken served alongside perfectly fluffed saffron rice and grilled vegetables. As seen in the photos, every element on the plate was executed with care. The chicken in particular stood out for its tenderness and bold seasoning. The market section of the restaurant also has a fun mix of imported items and snacks — everything from dried mulberries and raisins to lavash bread, fresh juices, and soda options. A great touch if you want to bring a little taste of the cuisine home with you. Atmosphere is clean, casual, and inviting. While it's a simple setup, the focus is clearly on the food and authenticity. Will definitely return when back in the area. Highly recommend for anyone looking for a solid Persian food experience.
V S

V S

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