
Foodie Road Trips Across the World in Eşfahān, Eşfahān, Iran
1. Imam Square (Naqsh-e Jahan)
A historic Persian city square with architectural masterpieces like the Imam Mosque, Sheikh Lotfollah Mosque, and Ali Qapu Palace.
- Architectural Marvel: Showcases some of the finest examples of Persian, Islamic, and Azari architecture
- Historical Significance: UNESCO World Heritage Site with a rich history dating back to the Safavid era.
- Food Bazaar: Home to bustling bazaars offering traditional Iranian delicacies and local souvenirs
2. Khane-e Khosrow
A historic mansion turned restaurant serving traditional Persian cuisine in a stunningly decorated setting.
- Authentic Persian Cuisine: Prepares traditional Persian dishes using age-old recipes and cooking techniques.
- Ambiance: Beautifully decorated with traditional Persian art and antiques, providing a unique dining experience.
- Courtyard Setting: Enjoy your meal in a lush courtyard surrounded by flowers and fountains.
3. Bazzar-e Bozorg
The Grand Bazaar of Esfahan, offering a wide variety of traditional Iranian goods, spices, and street food.
- Local Flavors: Taste delicious local snacks like Ghormeh Sabzi, Baham-e Sabz, and Fesenjan.
- Shopping Experience: Browse through a myriad of stalls selling everything from spices to handwoven carpets.
- Lively Atmosphere: Experience the energy and excitement of a bustling Middle Eastern marketplace.
4. Chehel Sotoun
A beautiful pavilion with its unique architecture and reflection pool, perfect for trying traditional Persian sweets.
- Reflective Pool: Offers a stunning mirror image of the intricate facade.
- Persian Art: Decorated with breathtaking Persian calligraphy, paintings, and architecture.
- Food Court: Features a food court offering traditional Iranian sweets like Shole Zard and Baghlava.
5. Vank Cathedral
An Armenian Apostolic church showcasing stunning frescoes, intricate tile work, and a unique food court serving traditional Armenian dishes.
- Armenian Heritage: Offers a glimpse into the rich history and culture of the Armenian community in Iran.
- Stunning Artwork: Features beautiful frescoes and tile work depicting biblical scenes.
- Armenian Cuisine: Taste unique Armenian dishes like Kufte Tabakeh, Dolma, and Piti.
6. Abbasi Hotel
A historic hotel offering traditional Persian hospitality, a beautiful courtyard, and a restaurant serving delicious dishes.
- Historic Ambiance: Located in a centuries-old building with a rich history.
- Traditional Cuisine: Serves traditional Persian dishes using age-old recipes and cooking techniques.
- Courtyard Setting: Enjoy your meal in a lush courtyard surrounded by flowers and fountains.
7. Si-o-Seh Pol Bridge
A stunning bridge with 33 arches over the Zayandeh Rood River, offering a perfect spot for a picnic.
- Architectural Masterpiece: One of the most famous bridges in Iran and a fine example of Safavid bridge-building.
- River View: Offers a picturesque view of the Zayandeh Rood River and its surrounding gardens.
- Picnic Spots: Pack a picnic to enjoy along the banks of the river.
8. Jolfa District
An Armenian neighborhood known for its beautiful churches, unique architecture, and traditional Armenian bakeries.
- Armenian Culture: Offers a glimpse into the rich history and culture of the Armenian community in Iran.
- Unique Architecture: Features beautiful churches and houses with distinct Armenian architectural elements.
- Traditional Pastries: Taste unique Armenian pastries like Katlog, Kataifi, and Gata.
9. Halveh Polo
A traditional Iranian rice dish made with fish, dill, and barberries, found in many restaurants throughout Esfahan.
- Persian Cuisine: Represents a classic example of Persian rice dishes.
- Fresh Ingredients: Made with fresh fish, herbs, and barberries sourced locally.
- Versatile Dish: Can be found in many restaurants throughout Esfahan, making it easy to try.
10. Negin-e-Motamadieh
A dessert shop offering traditional Iranian sweets like Negin-e-Motamadieh and Baghlava.
- Traditional Sweets: Specializes in making traditional Iranian sweets.
- Delicate Designs: Features intricately designed sweets made with edible gold and silver.
- Perfect for Gifts: Makes beautiful, boxed gifts perfect for friends or family back home.
11. Jameh Mosque of Esfahan
One of the oldest and most important mosques in Iran, featuring a beautiful courtyard and four minarets.
- Historical Significance: Constructed during the Sassanid Empire and continued to be built upon throughout history.
- Architectural Beauty: Showcases beautiful tile work, calligraphy, and architecture.
- Courtyard Setting: Enjoy a peaceful moment in the tranquil courtyard.
12. Fesenjan Stalls
Street food stalls throughout Esfahan offering the popular Persian dish Fesenjan (a walnut and pomegranate stew).
- Local Specialty: Fesenjan is a famous dish from Esfahan, making it a must-try.
- Street Food Experience: Enjoy the lively atmosphere of street food stalls in Esfahan.
- Versatile Dish: Fesenjan can be found throughout Esfahan, making it easy to try.
13. Khayam Café
A popular café located near Imam Square serving traditional Iranian tea and pastries.
- Traditional Tea: Serves strong, flavorful Iranian tea.
- Cozy Atmosphere: Features a cozy, inviting atmosphere perfect for relaxing and people-watching.
- Perfect Break Spot: Makes a great break spot during long days of sightseeing in Esfahan.
14. Shishlik Stalls
Street food stalls throughout Esfahan offering Shishlik (grilled meat skewers).
- Local Specialty: Shishlik is a famous dish from Iran, making it a must-try.
- Street Food Experience: Enjoy the lively atmosphere of street food stalls in Esfahan.
- Versatile Dish: Shishlik can be found throughout Esfahan, making it easy to try.
15. Persian Cooking Classes
Cooking classes offering the opportunity to learn how to prepare traditional Persian dishes.
- Hands-on Experience: Gives visitors a hands-on experience in preparing traditional Persian dishes.
- Cultural Exchange: Allows for a deeper cultural exchange through food and cooking techniques.
- Recipes to Take Home: Learn traditional Persian recipes to take home and impress friends and family.