The 5 Best Hotels for Foodies in Tehran

The five-star Parsian Azadi Hotel has hosted everyone from foreign leaders to international soccer teams. It towers above neighboring buildings in northern Tehran, giving its rooms some of the best views in the city. While the four restaurants allow guests plenty of dining options, Bice Restaurant in particular shouldn’t be missed. Beginning modestly in Milan in 1926, Bice soon spread to major cities all around the world and opened in Tehran with the intention of sharing authentic Italian cuisine and friendly, professional service in a chic, European ambiance. Try the favorites—beef carpaccio and spaghetti with shrimp, or order the mushroom risotto which is served in its very own parmesan wheel! There may be a lot of Italian restaurants in Tehran, but no one does it like Bice.

Not to be confused with Espinas Palace, Espinas Hotel is an elegant five-star property located in the heart of the capital city within walking distance of many tourist attractions. Along with its comfortable modern rooms, in the hotel itself are a variety of restaurant options. Of particular note is an Iranian restaurant which serves some of the most delicious stews commonly found in home-cooked meals, including one of the national dishes, dizi, a stew of meat, potatoes, tomatoes, and beans cooked in a clay pot. Live classical Persian music and stylish traditional decoration add to the delightful atmosphere. You can enjoy some of the typical Persian flavors without ever having to leave the hotel making it ideal for business travelers on a tight schedule.

Raamtin Residence Hotel is a four-star boutique hotel situated on Tehran’s longest street, Valiasr. Located in the corporate district close to many multinational companies, this hotel is particularly suited for those on business trips, with suites and studios available for guests staying for longer periods. Even if you don’t plan to stay as a guest, there is a reason to visit, as it houses one of Tehran’s finest restaurants, Bistango. Bistango has been delivering an upscale international dining experience to Tehranis since 2004 and is arguably the best restaurant in the city. Their chefs use fresh, seasonal produce and are rather adventurous in their creations—bone marrow bruschetta anyone? These beautifully presented dishes are essentially a fusion of international cuisine and create a unique haute dining experience.

For a taste of India in Iran, try Taj Mahal Hotel, where the VIP rooms have a unique mix of Indian and Iranian cultures, a combination which is also the inspiration for their two restaurants. Mahi Mahi gives guests a taste of northern Iran with its fresh seafood and other traditional dishes from the Caspian coast, alongside framed artwork featuring typical dress of the region. The Indian Restaurant serves favorites from the eastern neighbors, such as tandoori chicken and kashmiri kabab, in an appropriately decorated setting.

Ferdowsi Grand Hotel’s proximity to major tourist attractions makes it ideal for guests. Renovations have brought a touch of modernity to the otherwise traditional Persian decoration. This hotel boasts several dining options including fast food, French, and Middle Eastern (as well as an in-house confectionary), but perhaps the most noteworthy is the traditional Persian restaurant. Tablecloths from Esfahan, clay dishes, and a giant samovar are just some of the items that will transport you to the old days of Iran. The buffet also serves up an array of dishes from all regions of the country.