Shamshiri Restaurant

When I first moved to Los Angeles to attend college in 1984, going out to eat on Sundays with my mom and sister was a special treat. We usually ended up in Westwood, where the Persian restaurants and markets are located.

Dining in fine Persian restaurants is still a treat for me and my family. One of our favorite restaurants is located in the heart of Westwood (lovingly dubbed Tehrangeles by my Persian friends). Shamshiri restaurant is a great place to meet, and eat affordable and tasty Persian food.

Since 1982 Shamshiri restaurant has offered a wide range of affordably priced lunch specials on weekdays in a homey atmosphere. The lunch specials (ranging from $9.95 to $12.95 during weekdays) include a choice of soup or salad.

You’re also served a plate of sabzi (fresh herbs, red onions and radishes) with fresh baked bread from Shamshiri’s stone oven upon sitting down.

Shamshiri offers a long list of vegetarian and vegan dishes as well as the traditional Persian food faire (meat and kabob dishes).

I tried the chicken kabob with rice. I really liked the buttery rice with saffron and the smoky flame broiled tomato and vegetables.

The service was a little slow, but to be fair, the restaurant was packed with customers on that Friday afternoon.

I will definitely visit the restaurant again.

Exotic desserts and a full wine bar are also available on the menu.

Shamshiri is located on 1712 Westwood Boulevard in Los Angeles, California.

(310) 474-1410.

Hours: 11:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. weekdays, 11:30 a.m. to 11 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays. Walk-ins are fine, but reservations are recommended for groups of 6 or more, especially on weekends. Children welcome. Street parking only. Delivery available within 3 miles. For a full list of dishes and prices check out their website: Shamshiri.com

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