Molana Restaurant — Restaurant in Watertown

Only reason anyone would know this place exists is either they stumbled on it or someone told them about it. It is unassuming and semi-tucked away; you wouldn't actually notice them unless you're actively looking. However, that unassuming feeling disappears once you find yourself inside the establishment. There is this feeling that I cannot explain that sends shivers up my spine.

One can’t help but feel welcome here. Rose is an amazingly friendly soul that just puts you at ease with the tone of her voice. Even the other customers are friendly with the way they acknowledge you as you walk by towards wherever you’re seated. There is happy banter in the air and friends of the establishment would often show up and make themselves immediately at home. You get the point. You’re welcome here.

But what makes it so special to me now is always the food. And for what they already offer to start, that states quite a bit to what I think of this place.

There are many Persian/Middle Eastern fare in this area and most serve the usual so nothing seems to really stand out. That is, at least, until you order their Jujeh Kabob (grilled Cornish hen). Sounds simple, looks simple, but the depth of flavor and the tonguegasmic moments you have partaking of the dish changes their level in the culinary game in the area. It was so good, so so good, I felt completely blown away.

I raved about it to Rose, who then told the chef-owner, and then told her I’d be back the next day just to try it again. No way it could be that good I thought. I had to come back again to make sure it was indeed the case (instead of ordering it for “dessert” right in the moment).

Well, I showed up at lunch again the next day for exactly the same dish. I just had to. I was hooked. I was made a perma-fan.

As I write this, I know I’m about to do what most crazy foodies do as they gain traction in their mind. Get ready and go get some more. Time to wrap this up and head there.

See you around some time. Definitely recommend their Jujeh Kabob...

We made a reservation for dine-in and they were surprised that we showed up ten minutes earlier even though the place was EMPTY. We ordered several items, honestly trying to pronounce the names of the foods authentically, but got very cold and unwelcoming service, no smile, no conversation, barely a recommendation when we asked for one. We were served food in paper plates even though on the table behind us there were decorated dinner plates ready for service. We also ordered a Persian yoghourt beverage that came in a sealed soft drink bottle (we thought it would be homemade and they didn't even bother to bring glasses and ice). It felt like we were treated very coldly and it was unpleasant. We even overheard the server/owner and the cook talking about us.

The food was ok - Sabzi (herb stew) was nice but small, eggplant salad was interesting. But the Kebob was gummy (which means it was from frozen rather than fresh meat), the rice was dry, the bread was dry, the stuffed vine-leaves seemed canned, and it all felt very cheap, and way overpriced.

We got the bill without asking - service included! (without asking!), not sure why but we still chose to order tea and some pastry for desert. The tea came in paper cups, the pastry was heated in the microwave and again brought on a paper plate. :-(

For the prices they charge, they should be ashamed of their behavior, service, and food quality. Not recommending this place to anyone, especially if you know a thing or two about...

This is literally the best Persian restaurant in the "Greater Boston" area in Watertown, MA! Definitely an unforgettable experience the owners are incredibly friendly I'm very close with both of them they are welcoming. The service is in a timely manner it's done in a great way. The atmosphere is dimly lit and cozy with authentic art pieces hung on the walls directly from Iran. It almost feels like you're stepping into Iran but in a restaurant for an evening or whenever you choose to eat. The prices are reasonable and the food is a definite wonder because once you try the food you can't stop coming back I personally come back to this restaurant probably four times a week every week just because the food's delicious, service is awesome, and the owners and servers are super friendly! I bring everyone that I know to this restaurant as my go to place for eating out whether that's for lunch or for dinner. Each person or people here they can't stop coming back and they always want another meal at Molana Restaurant. Not to mention I referred many people here and they all love the food here. A definite go to restaurant choice at the top of any food lover's list! I highly definitely recommend this place for anyone who's doing either, dine-in, take-out,...