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Vala Kitchen

4.8 (365 reviews)
Closed • 11:00 am - 9:00 pm

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Recommended Reviews - Vala Kitchen

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Lyla D.

I've often seen fellow SoCal Yelp friends' posts about mouthwatering Persian cuisine, but living in Honolulu, we have only seen one Persian restaurant/bar open in the past decade. However, since we visit Los Angeles routinely, I've bookmarked many Persian restaurants in the West LA neighborhood and consulted Yelp's Top 10 Best Persian Restaurants List dated November 2025 to try. This time, I convinced my relatives to adopt a healthier Mediterranean diet, since our recent discussions have focused on aging gracefully or managing health conditions. Last night's rainy weather cleared temporarily, so we took the opportunity to drive out to one of our favorite Thai noodle soup restaurants when my Yelp bookmark for Vala Kitchen popped up. I only needed to mention the availability of "lamb shanks and chops" on Vala Kitchen's menu to my brother-in-law when he asked for navigation. All I needed to say was "Gower Gulch," and he immediately said he knew the location. We were about 20 minutes from the restaurant when I managed to book a reservation on the OpenTable dining reservation app. We found a parking stall almost directly in front of Vala Kitchen, even though the parking lot at the Gower Gulch strip mall was quite full. A tall host graciously checked us in, seated us with menus, while another male worker came to take our water service request and beer order. When the server returned, he asked if we had any questions about any of the menu items, but we were hangry and ready to place our orders. FOOD: -Appetizer Feast Platter: We selected this platter because it highlighted Mediterranean and Iranian appetizers. There were four dolmas, three falafels, a small dish of tahini for dipping the falafels, a bowl of hummus, and a bowl of Shirazi salad. I wasn't sure whether my husband or my brother-in-law would like the falafel, since neither had said they had tried it before. My husband surprised me by saying he enjoyed the texture and flavor as he ate two of the three falafel, leaving me with one. My brother-in-law ate most of the dolma, but compared them with the Greek dolmathes we had earlier in the week. We all enjoyed the refreshing, bright, and zesty Shirazi (Persian) salad of chopped cucumbers, tomatoes, red onions, and mint, tossed in olive oil and lime juice and seasoned with salt and pepper. $18 -Koobideh 2 Skewers (Beef, Chicken): I described the kabob differences of Koobideh, Soltani, Barg, and Shish to my husband and brother-in-law, from what I remembered from fellow Yelp Friends' reviews. The Koobideh (seasoned ground meat and grilled) appealed to my husband. Between the two kabobs, one chicken and one beef, my husband preferred the lighter chicken as he liked the chicken's flavor, amount of seasoning, and texture. He enjoyed the fluffy basmati rice and ate it all. $23 -Adas Polo Plate (choice of Koobideh): I was attracted to the Adas Polo plate and chose the chicken Koobideh to complement the rice flavorings. Adas Polo (Polow) is a mixture of basmati rice, lentils, raisins, and caramelized onions, with warm spices like cinnamon or saffron, which appeals to my taste for sweet-and-savory flavors. To me, the natural choice of meat to eat with the sweet-savory flavors would be the chicken Koobideh. I think I was right since I tried a piece of the beef Koobideh with the Adas Polo and didn't enjoy it as much as with the chicken Koobideh. $22 -Saffron Ice Cream: We shared the creamy disc of saffron bastani, which tasted citrusy-honeyed-earthy-floral, with a subtle bitterness, and smelled fragrant. Its creaminess was offset by crunchy, nutty pistachio bits and topped with cherry sauce. The ice cream closed out our Middle Eastern meal in luxurious style. $8 We're looking forward to returning to Vala Kitchen on future visits whenever we're in this area of Los Angeles.

Persian Eggplant
Keat K.

We walked in without a reservation as a group of four on a Saturday evening around 8:30, we were warmly greeted and sat immediately. The Persian eggplant was creamy and flavorful. A great small bite to start off the meal, I would gladly order this again. The family platter was larger than expected! Generous portions of steak, chicken, beef koobideh, and chicken koobideh served along side with plenty of charred tomatoes, onions, bell pepper, and peppers. The meats were juicy and incredibly savory, the best Persian food I have ever tried. Basmati rice was light and fluffy. The side of hummus we ordered was delicious as well, I wish there was more of it though. We finished the meal with ice cream, I have never tried saffron ice cream before and was pleasantly surprised. It had a mild sweetness with a floral taste. Vala Kitchen is serving up quality Persian food at a reasonable price. I would definitely recommend stopping and trying out their platters.

Vala Chicken & Chicken Koobideh
Mehdi K.

This place is awesome. I tried their Vala Chicken & Chicken Koobideh. It was more than good. Highly Recommended

Persian salad
Laura C.

Very kind staff from the moment my boyfriend and I walked in. Sam the owner, and his wife were both present. My Tahdig dish and the eggplant was delectable. I had a yellow rice I've never had before, with green beans and caramelized onions, very flavorful and hit my palate perfectly. My favorite dish was the fried potato samosas. Boyfriend had beef and chicken kabob and we ate so much but still got to walk out with leftovers which I enjoy. Perfect restaurant for a date, beautiful clean atmosphere.

Beef Barg and Koobedeh with Barberry Rice
Chris S.

Been here a month or so ago and had to return with my wife. We started with the Dolmas (grape leaves). They were excellent. Next came the Fried Potato pastry wrap. It too was very good. Our main dishes came out. I had the Barg and Beef Koobedeh. My wife had the dark meat Chicken Kabob and the Chicken Koobedeh. The meats were flavorful and moist. We had enough for a take home meal. We also got the barberry rice. This is a must have. The restaurant hosts were very nice and checked in with us a number of times. All in all this is a great Persian restaurant.

Hot tea

The service here was amazing. The staff were very friendly and the food came out super fast - was ideal bc we were starving after our flight but wanted something fresh. The eggplant is like nothing we've tried before. It was a 100/10. Everything was delicious but the eggplant and kabob were our favorites. Definitely give it a try.

Beef Koobideh Sandwich with side of fries.
Joan W.

First time here for lunch. A very pleasant dining room with comfortable fabric upholstered chairs. Their menu offers the greatest hits from the Mediterranean and features Persian Kabobs. I got the Chicken Koobideh Kebob Sandwich and it was delicious. The bread had a little crunch in the crust and the ground chicken was tender and juicy. The special sauce came on the side and featured a nice kick of creamy garlic. Service was attentive and earnest. Loved that their check system allows for online payment and splitting of the bill among members of your party.

Farhana S.

THE BEST!!!!!! We have tried Persian food everywhere, literally all over and this place is hands down the best we have ever had! The chicken thigh melts in your mouth! Yes that's how soft it is! The koobideh?? Delicious!! I can't believe we didn't come here soon because this is what kabobs are made of! Run today! We can't wait to return back!!!

Persian Tea
Nikita K.

Is this even chicken??? We ordered the juicy rolled chicken kebab, and I honestly couldn't believe it was chicken. If I'm being real, this is the best chicken I've had in my entire life. It was so juicy, savory, and delicious--you can't even put it into words. You just have to try it for yourself. It melted in my mouth, and the moment I took a bite, I got hit with such an amazing flavor that I couldn't help but smile. The tea was also lovely, served in beautiful cups. The server was super welcoming and friendly, and the place had a really cozy vibe A true gem that deserves Michelin!

Xochitl L.

First time at this restaurant 10/10 from the food to the service! Everyone is so welcoming the food is amazing! Very clean and neat. Fast service from the beginning to the end. We'll definitely be coming again!!

Arpineh E.

Friendly costumer service and delicious food. I would recommend chicken kabob since it was juicy.

Crispy rice.
Nathan K.

Upon arrival we were greeted as friends and shown our way to a private table where we felt treated as the most important guests. The ambiance was romantic, yet welcoming, a refreshing atmosphere for wonderful dining for a date, friends, or a whole family. We started with drinks of fresh mint leaf infused tea and fresh squeezed lemonade and both beverages sated our thirst while whetting our appetites. Our host was kind, not condescending and answered our questions about menu items helping us decide which way our evening meal would take us. We started with the appetizer platter which had the best hummus and stuffed grape leaves we've ever tasted. Fresh vegetables abound with delicious sauces beyond proper description but quite exquisite to say the least. Following appetizers we had a salad that was big enough for 3 or more people to share with the most delicate dressing. After that we tasted the crispy rice with multiple toppings. You could never hope to make such delicious food at home. For our entree we ordered the dinner platter of chicken koobideh, beef koobideh, and chicken kebab. This could've been called an extra value menu as it was enough food for 5-8 people to share. The kebab was the best we've ever tried and the koobideh brought our mouths to countries we could only hope to visit. After dinner, we pondered leaving but saw the desserts and had to have the faloodeh which was unlike anything you've ever tasted, like ice cream met it's gentler, more delicious cousin. We also ordered the pistachio saffron ice cream, I would like to use words to describe it, but I cannot, all I will say is the unique perfection of flavors brought tears to my fiancé's eyes. A perfect experience, perfect meal, and we left with more friends than when we walked in.

Koobideh Combination
Melody C.

I had never tried Persian food before so I was very excited to come here! Parking was a little tough for us since we came during peak dinner hours, but there's a big shared parking lot outside. Once we stepped in, we were welcomed by the owner, who was the friendliest man ever! I've literally never felt more welcome in my life. I asked for a drink menu, and they'll have it soon! They have some wine and beers you can ask for, but an official drink menu is in the works as they've recently acquired their liquor license. Woohoo! We got the combo koobideh and the filet mignon shish kabob. Both were so good and flavorful! Even the rice tasted like it was flavored with something, and it was so delicious. The atmosphere inside was quite dimly lit and romantic. Beautiful space and decorations as well. We'd love to come back another day!

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Good food very nice client crevice love it and will recommend all of my friends thanks to this place

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Been here a few times already. Great people and service. Food is fabulous also. Highly recommend.

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Page 4 of 10

Vala Kitchen Reviews in Other Languages

Ask the Community - Vala Kitchen

Do u deliver to Beverly hills?

I know for big orders they can make accommodations. I am in Van Nuys and we order from them all the time.

What vegetables are on your veggie plate?

It was roasted zukini and tomato.

Is there any halal options?

Hello, currently all meat is Halal except for the filet.

Do you have vegan options?

Yes, we do offer vegan options! Our menu includes a variety of delicious vegan dishes such as: • Appetizers: Dolma, falafel, and green olives.… Read more

View All 6 Questions

Azizam - Potato, turmeric chicken, eggplant dip,

Azizam

4.6(189 reviews)
3.0 mi•Silver Lake
•$$

I love Azizam! Took…read moremyself on a solo date here about two months ago when I moved into the area. When you first walk in you're welcomed with a cool retro vibe that feels pretty homey. Since it was my first time here I asked the person working at the front ( you have to order up front where they then give you a number) some questions regarding the menu. They were supper attentive and friendly. After I ordered I sat outside to people watch which was honestly really nice. Reminded me of Paris. My food came promptly thus after. The Tumeric braised chicken is amaaazzzinggg the chicken is so juicy and falls off the bone. The rice has some sort of crunchiness to it that compliments the entire flavor profile of the dish. The eggplant dip reminded me of the one my grandmother makes, dipped with the chicken made my meal feel really nostalgic. I've been back four times since and never regret it. One of those meals that just makes you feel really good after!

one of my favorite restaurants in LA. mazeh plate is unlike…read moreanything i've ever had defffff get the herbs and eggplant. the turmeric rice chicken is so flavorful and tender and there's so many pinches of pickle which i LOVE. they use long grain rice which soaks up everything perfectlyyyy affordable (everything around $20) and very easy casual counter service style. please come to explore diverse cuisine and support small businesses. so well deserving of all its accolades

Photos
Azizam - Outside

Outside

Azizam - Potatoes

Potatoes

Azizam - Street view

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Street view

TehranRo Grill - TehranRo Grill

TehranRo Grill

4.8(400 reviews)
2.3 mi•Koreatown, Wilshire Center
•$$

We came here for Nowrooz lunch. I was skeptical of trying a Persian restaurant in Koreatown as we…read morenormally drive to Westwood for great Persian food. I'm so happy we tried this place - it's Westwood quality without having to drive all the way there. We tried their perfectly made kashkebaddmjoon, combo of chicken and beef shish kebab and chicken koobideh for my son. The food was chef's kiss. We parked in the front meter parking but there's valet available. The service was friendly - our waiter was a younger gentleman. The vibe is like a mixture of casual + fancy. Their restrooms are super duper clean - which I really appreciate as a person with ocd. Will definitely be back! Happy Nowrooz!

I'd say TehranRo Grill was one of the most pleasant surprises I've had in a while, trying new…read moreplaces in Koreatown. I visited with my family to celebrate my birthday on a Tuesday evening, and we were seated promptly, with no wait time. Friendly people, cute little space, but it was the bursting flavors that really made this celebratory dinner unforgettable. We got the beef & lamb koobideh, chicken shish kabobs, and shrimp kabobs. My jaw was already on the floor when I saw the portions--but oh my goodness, everything was seasoned and cooked to perfection. The shrimp were so plump that even my picky choosy mom thoroughly enjoyed them! I actually get kabob cravings quite regularly. And to think all this time, I've been ordering underwhelming deliveries from the mid places when TehranRo Grill is just a short 10-minute drive from home? Damn. I've been missing out. I'll most certainly be returning and trying all of the different options. Can't wait.

Photos
TehranRo Grill - Interior

Interior

TehranRo Grill
TehranRo Grill - My bday dessert

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My bday dessert

Toranj - Toranj Restaurant Indoor

Toranj

4.2(756 reviews)
7.3 mi•Westwood, UCLA
•$$
Pet friendly
Kid friendly

Phenomenal Mediterranean food, exceptional persian-inspired craft cocktails, beautiful space, and…read moreexcellent service. Highly recommend trying out the Manhattan beach location! Only negative for us was feeling some pressure to upgrade the sides to our dishes (options to upgrade the salad and rice); we upgraded the rice and didn't necessarily enjoy the upgraded rice with cranberries and think the base options may have been preferable. Really enjoyed the included house salad! If you may know you have a preference for one of the upgrades it may be nice to have the options, otherwise, I would not hesitate to stick with the base which is delicious.

Honestly, I didn't even want to write this review, but after spending a couple of hours thinking…read moreabout it, I felt like I had to. To those writing all the good reviews, I genuinely have one question: have you actually had good Persian food before? Have you ever been to Raffi's? We drove all the way from Orange County because someone recommended this place. We usually just go to Raffi's, but I thought, "let's give this place a shot." Unfortunately, that was a mistake. First, I want to be clear: the staff were great, friendly and attentive. This review has nothing to do with them. It's strictly about the food. 3 Stew Tahdig ($17): The tahdig was extremely thick and hard. Even with the stew on top, it was basically inedible. Mast-o-Moosir (Shallot Yogurt): Served in a very small portion and was extremely watery. You could clearly taste raw shallots instead of a smooth blend. This dish should be made with thick yogurt (mast-e chekideh), not something runny. Main Courses: * Soltani ($39) * Naderi Soltani ($42) Honestly, we couldn't even tell the difference between the two, they seemed identical. We asked for well-done, but everything came medium or even undercooked. The barg kebab (filet mignon) was the worst part, it was tough, rubbery, and almost impossible to cut. It genuinely felt like chewing plastic. Not sure what kind of meat was used, but it definitely wasn't good quality. Salad Issue: The server asked which salad we wanted and mentioned Shirazi, Greek, etc. I chose Greek. When the bill came, we were charged an extra $2 for it, which was never mentioned. That should have been clearly communicated. Also, the bowl the salad was served in was chipped and broken in multiple spots--not a great presentation at all. Rice: The rice was poorly cooked and had barely any saffron (maybe 5% at most). Even another table nearby complained about the rice. Drink - Sekanjebin ($10): This is supposed to be a traditional Persian drink, but this tasted like a mix of cheap syrup. It did not resemble authentic sekanjebin at all. Appetizer - Marinated Olives (Zeytoon Parvardeh): The olives were unusually large and overpowering. This dish should be balanced, you're supposed to taste the walnut, pomegranate, and herbs, not just big olives. At this point, it made sense why the restaurant was almost empty on a Sunday lunchtime, maybe 4-5 tables total. To be completely honest, the food upset our stomachs to the point where we had to take Pepto-Bismol afterward. Overall, the food quality was very disappointing, and we will not be coming back. I would not recommend this place to anyone looking for authentic or well-made Persian food. Again, no issues with the staff, they were great. The problem is entirely with the food.

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Toranj - Beef Koobideh

Beef Koobideh

Toranj - Toranj Restaurant Indoor

Toranj Restaurant Indoor

Toranj - Beef Koobideh

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Beef Koobideh

Taste of Tehran - Boneless chicken kabob wrap and house salad

Taste of Tehran

4.2(1.3k reviews)
7.3 mi•West Los Angeles
•$$

Out of all the koobideh worlds, you had to walk into mine. (Insert in love face emoji). Yelp when…read moreare you going to let me put in symbols or emojis on my reviews?! All the meat whether chicken, salmon or beef comes out perfectly juicy and flavorful. Just wish things weren't so expensive. They do add an extra $3 for salad, which isn't preposterous but not worth it in my opinion. Also they certainly do pile on the rice inside!! Yummmm. And I'll gladly eat their roasted tomatoes anytime. This restaurant was quiet and I gladly filled a cup of ice water by the entrance, plopped on a bench and waited less than 15 minutes for 2 plates. The cashier even brought it over to me rather than calling out; a small but meaningful impact of service. This is a new review on an old favorite of mine. Glad to reunite again Taste of Tehran!

I don't know if I came here at a bad time or if its always like this but I was definitely…read moredisappointed. I came here with such excitement as my friends have been telling me about it. Unfortunately, I will not be coming back. My family and I went here one afternoon and as we sat down, the attendant from the restaurant told us that the specific table we were sitting on wasn't part of the restaurant and we were not going to be served if we sat there in a very rude tone. We went ahead and moved. Then we went up to the cashier to order our food and the two people that were there were busy talking to each other in farsi about a customer that just came and didn't tip along with some very vulgar language. Then as we were ordering, we told them it was our first time and we got no smile or anything, very still faces like whatever. We ordered two Koobideh wraps and a few other things. It was very uncomfortable. The Cashier didn't even speak to us. As we sat down we were "served" after we HAD to ask if we get bread and onions and water because we saw that they were taking those things to other tables. The Koobideh wrap tasted like Rubber and you could barely hold it together as it was drenched with the sauce and all soggy. Even my 1 year old wouldn't eat it. We had to open up the sandwiches and eat them with a fork. It was not a good experience. Tip for the owner: You should probably remind your employees that some of your customers are Persian and they will understand them talking shit.

Photos
Taste of Tehran
Taste of Tehran - Sampler trio: Mast o Khiar, Addas Polo, and hummus

Sampler trio: Mast o Khiar, Addas Polo, and hummus

Taste of Tehran - Salmon Kabob, Lamb Kabob, Hummus

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Salmon Kabob, Lamb Kabob, Hummus

Vala Kitchen - persian - Updated May 2026

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