Two Persian restaurants in Israel

Gohar Restaurant – Situated on HaTa’as St 26 in Kfar Saba, Gohar has undergone an exciting transformation, evolving into a vibrant delicatessen that celebrates authentic Persian cuisine. Alongside traditional dishes, Gohar presents a tantalizing selection of smoked meats and innovative vegetarian and vegan options. A newly opened seating area provides a comfortable setting to indulge in quality delicatessen products while exploring the rich flavors of Iran.

The restaurant is small with inside seating for about 15 people and more outside. When I asked Nulyan for a menu, he said that there isn’t one; it’s everything you can see. Sure enough, a tempting array of freshly cooked Persian goodies is lined up under the glass-topped counter. What’s on the menu? For starters, he brought us fresh salads, coleslaw, tomato and cucumber, and tehina, all very standard Israeli salads. But each had its own twist, adding the Persian touch, such as loads of herbs, a piquant lime dressing, and a touch of sweetness to the cabbage that had been marinated and garnished with dried fruits. Nulyan also brought a central dish of the two kinds of rice he serves – majadra, which combines basmati rice with green lentils; and plain white rice with hints of a yellow spice, turmeric perhaps. Also on the plate were fresh runner beans and tomato segments.

March 22, 2025 | 5:55 am