The Persian Room
The Persian Room in North Scottsdale has been around for more than 25 years, but I'm sad to say it took me 7 years of living in the valley before I made my first visit - but it won't be my last. In fact, I have lunch plans with friends again tomorrow.
It's a pretty, upscale space with a lofty second floor, chandeliers, and high ceilings. Generous portions for lunch made two meals, and I'm still thinking of the Kash O'bademjan (roasted eggplant with whey and topped with crispy garlic slices) and juicy chicken kebabs. The lunch plates come with regular basmati, but you can upgrade to a different rice dish. I loved the one with dates and lentils called Adas Polo. I was joined by two friends for lunch on my first visit and we enjoyed:
Doogh, a tangy carbonated drink with yogurt and milk. Each table also receives complimentary pita with butter, onion, and fresh basil.
Kash O'bademjan (roasted eggplant mixed with kashk/whey, garlic, onions & mint). Shirazi Salad with cucumbers, onions, and tomatoes.
Mast o moosier (yogurt and garlic dip). Lamb Koobideh (minced lamb kebabs) with Adas Polo (basmati rice with raisins, lentils, dates and saffron);
Beef Shish Kebab with basmati and Chicken Barg Sultani with two kinds of chicken kebabs and Baghala Polo (basmati with dill and fava beans).
If you need a speedy lunch, this isn't the place, so allow plenty of time. I especially liked the Doogh, Kas O'bdemjan, and Adas Polo, which I will be ordering again. And this time I'll save room for dessert!
Afterwards, I did a little shopping at the Caspian Market next door: Fava beans, Bulgarian feta, yogurt, zoolbia (honey syrup-soaked fried pastery) and pistachios.
!