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CHAII

"As a Persian coming from New Zealand to LA for my music, it’s a crazy feeling sometimes. I’ve gone between living in different countries and growing up constantly both moving further and closer to my culture. LA is somewhere that makes me see both my western life and Persian life in one city. It’s a summary of my life in one place. It’s a place that shows how empowering migration really is and how we can adapt and learn from different cultures and live a life of many experiences."

This is always the first Persian food place I stop at when in LA, Attari Sandwich shop! It reminds me of Iran, so it’s very special to me since I don't often get to experience that. To start off, you have to try the mouth watering Eggplant dish (Kashke bademjan) then any of their delicious sandwiches - my two favorites are Sausage and Tongue. They have an amazing menu filled with yummy Persian food that you can enjoy in the cute outdoor area. Persian cream puffs (Noon Khamei) is a MUST for dessert.

The name says it all! When you go to Saffron and Rose Ice Cream shop in Westwood you must try the ice cream that the shop is named after, the Saffron ice cream. Mixed with pistachios, I don’t know anyone who could dislike this signature Iranian Ice Cream flavor, it’s a must try.. 

Feeling a little fancy? Then Darya restaurant is the place to go to have an amazing dinner. My favorite dish is Zereshk Polo Morgh (Persian Barberry rice with chicken) OR ANY of the dishes. If you’re new to Persian food then get a few different dishes and share. Some nights there is live music to enjoy while dining at Darya Restaurant.

Iran has such a rich culture and a long history in arts, music and traditions. Stores like Ketabsara (ketab = Book) are much needed to keep the Persian culture alive. I can never get enough of walking in a store that carries that much depth in the art and history.

This is definitely the spot to go for a casual hang out with your friends where you can enjoy Shisha food and board games. Open until 3am most nights and until 5am on weekends this is the perfect place to end up after going out for dinner to the movies etc. I think of this place as somewhere nice and chill and if I lived in LA I imagine i’d become a regular here. Shisha (Ghelyoun) is a big part of Persian culture. In Iran, my family always would have the Ghelyoun going after lunch or dinner over a cup of tea and snacks. It’s not about smoking, it's more the fact it brings everyone together.

I went to Cafe Glace with my cousin and my friends for the first time in 2019 when we were in LA to shoot music videos. Everyone is so lovely here and the food is amazing. I’ve had their gourmet Pizzas and sandwiches. Don’t forget to order some Chai (tea) after your meal. In Persian culture, we drink tea a lot. First thing in the morning, before and after meals tea is something that is always being made and poured into your glass. We also believe that tea is great for the stomach after meals to help with digestion.

If you’re looking for some quality hair products including amazing hair extensions and wigs then look no further, my uncle's store Santee beauty in Downtown LA. I love visiting my family when I'm in LA and my uncle has had so much success at his store in downtown where many celebrities go to get their hair  products from.

Ketabsara bookstore

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