A night at Shabestan: Persian poetry on a plate?

It all started with a simple curiosity: what is Persian food like? Naturally, we expected something similar to other Middle Eastern cuisines. On the recommendation of a colleague, we made our way to Shabestan, widely praised as one of the best Persian restaurants in town.

The name Shabestan comes from Persian and refers to a cool, subterranean space found in traditional architecture. These spaces, often located in mosques or grand homes, were designed as quiet refuges from the heat. They are softly lit, serene, and almost sacred, providing a peaceful atmosphere that matches the restaurant’s vibe.

Admittedly, the name was a bit tricky to remember at first. We mentally paired it with "Sebastian," which, surprisingly, helped a bit O.O

Inside, the restaurant felt almost like a hidden sanctuary: arched doorways, "dynamic" murals of dancers, and soft lighting that space in warm, slightly exotic charm.

Even a visit to the bathroom added to the experience: tucked away near the toilets was a 3D art wall that looked like a real shabestan... a serene, traditional underground space. At first, we found it odd that such a beautiful feature was hidden away, but then we realised: it perfectly matched the theme of the hiddenness of a Shabestan, beauty tucked behind quiet corners.

Now, for the food! As we explored the menu at Shabestan, it’s helpful to understand that the term ‘Persian’ refers to the rich cultural and culinary traditions of what was once the ancient Persian Empire. Today, this legacy is very much alive in modern-day Iranian cuisine, as the name ‘Persian’ still represents the historical roots of the dishes. So, whether you're enjoying the herb-filled Ash Reshteh or the saffron-kissed Sha Pasand Chicken, you're savouring flavours that date back thousands of years and remain integral to Iran's diverse and evolving food culture.

We kicked things off with some complimentary sangak bread, warm and soft, arriving alongside the smoky Mirza Ghassemi. At first glance, the bread seemed unassuming... just another piece of flatbread. But one bite, and we were hooked. Soft, pillowy, and warm, it had a surprising texture that went beyond our expectations (we thought it had looked crispy, hard). We couldn't stop raving about the bread the whole night. In the world of Persian meals, bread isn’t just a sidekick; it’s a main character!

Sangak bread and mirza ghassemi

The Mirza Ghassemi was smoky and comforting, with roasted eggplant, garlic, and tomato coming together in a perfect blend. It had that rich, velvety texture with just a hint of char that flooded our tastebuds with flavour... especially when paired with the warm sangak bread.

Their signature soup is not to be missed, we've heard. Turned out we loved the Ash Reshteh so much, we ordered it twice! It’s like chicken noodle soup, but with a richer, more complex twist. The comforting warmth of a familiar favourite is elevated by a perfect blend of herbs, legumes, and a tangy kick that makes each bite feel like a comforting experience with a lot more depth.

Next up, the Ghormeh Sabzi... it's packed with herbs, kidney beans, and tender lamb. Earthy and comforting, with a nice tang from the dried limes. It’s the kind of stew that’s been simmering all day, just waiting to wrap you in warmth and nostalgia, like a hug from your grandmother! ^.^

Sha Pasand Chicken: The chicken was tender, juicy, and full of flavour, with just the right hit of saffron to make it feel a little extra. Delicious rice. A solid standout without trying too hard!

We ended on a sweet (and slightly surprising) note with the Faloodeh Shirazi. Delicate rice noodles floated in an icy rosewater syrup... refreshing, floral, and just a little bit strange in the most curious way. It was sweet, sour, and completely unfamiliar, and definitely interesting.

All in all, dining at Shabestan felt less like a restaurant visit and more like stumbling into a quiet story... one told through spices, shadows, and the slow simmer of tradition. It left us full and also slightly enchanted. And maybe, just maybe, a little closer to understanding what Persian food is all about *.*

One thing to note: while the prices align with fine dining, the atmosphere felt a bit more laid-back, partly due to the subtle air conditioning. It’s not quite the white-tablecloth experience you might expect from the price tag, but it still delivers in terms of flavour and atmosphere.