Top Local Dishes & Where to Try Them in Shīrāz, Iran

1. Fesenjan (Walnut & Pomegranate Stew)

A traditional Persian stew made with pomegranate juice and ground walnuts, usually served over chicken or duck. It's a hearty dish that showcases the region's unique blend of flavors.

Rich Flavor: The combination of pomegranate and walnut creates a rich, complex flavor profile.
Local Ingredients: Made with locally sourced walnuts and pomegranates.
Traditional Cooking Technique: Cooked slowly over low heat to enhance the flavors.

2. Ash-e Reshteh (Thick Noodle Soup)

A nourishing Persian soup made with thick noodles, herbs, beans, and lentils. It's a popular dish in Shīrāz and is believed to bring good fortune.

Hearty & Nutritious: Packed with proteins, fiber, and various vitamins.
Traditional Ingredients: Includes locally sourced herbs, beans, and lentils.
Good Fortune: Believed to bring good fortune due to its lengthy noodles.

3. Ghormeh Sabzi (Herb Stew)

A classic Persian stew made with a variety of greens, kidney beans, lamb, and dried lemons. It's a testament to the region's love for herbs and hearty meals.

Flavorful: The mix of herbs creates a unique flavor profile.
Health Benefits: Rich in vitamins and minerals from the assortment of greens.
Local Ingredients: Made with locally sourced herbs, beans, and lamb.

4. Zaghoosht-e Morgh (Persian Lamb Stew)

A flavorful Persian stew made with tender lamb, split peas, and a unique blend of spices. It's a must-try for those who love hearty meals.

Flavorful: The unique blend of spices gives the stew its distinctive flavor.
Local Ingredients: Made with locally sourced lamb and split peas.
Hearty & Filling: A hearty dish that is sure to fill you up.

5. Beryani (Rice Dish with Meat and Nuts)

A festive Persian rice dish made with layers of saffron-infused rice, meat, and nuts. It's a delicious way to experience Shīrāz's culinary heritage.

Flavorful Layers: The layers of saffron-infused rice, meat, and nuts create a complex flavor profile.
Festive Dish: Traditionally served during celebrations and holidays.
Local Ingredients: Made with locally sourced meat, nuts, and saffron.

6. Shole Zard (Saffron Rice with Raisins)

A sweet Persian rice dish made with saffron-infused rice and raisins. It's a delightful dessert that showcases the region's love for saffron.

Delicious Dessert: A sweet treat to end your meal.
Local Ingredients: Made with locally sourced saffron and raisins.
Fragrant: The aroma of saffron fills the air when this dessert is cooked.

7. Alishirini Hafez (Persian Ice Cream)

A traditional Persian ice cream made with rose water and saffron. It's a refreshing treat that pays homage to the famous poet Hafez.

Refreshing: A cooling dessert perfect for hot days.
Local Flavors: Made with locally sourced rose water and saffron.
Honoring Hafez: Named after the famous poet Hafez who was buried in Shīrāz.

8. Narenji Sarab (Orange Blossom Water)

A popular Persian drink made from orange blossoms. It's a refreshing beverage that captures the essence of Shīrāz.

Refreshing: A cooling and invigorating drink.
Local Ingredients: Made from locally sourced orange blossoms.
Traditional Beverage: A traditional beverage enjoyed in Shīrāz for centuries.

9. Golab (Persian Saffron Cookies)

Delicate Persian cookies made with rose water and saffron. They're a sweet treat that showcases the region's love for these flavors.

Sweet Treat: A tasty dessert to enjoy during your visit.
Local Flavors: Made with locally sourced rose water and saffron.
Delicate: The cookies are light, crisp, and melt in your mouth.

10. Shīrāzi Berries (Persian Dried Fruits)

A mix of dried fruits such as apricots, raisins, and dates. These are a healthy snack that showcases the region's rich agricultural resources.

Healthy Snack: A nutritious treat that's perfect for travelers.
Local Products: Made from locally sourced fruits.
Rich in Flavor: Each fruit has its unique flavor and texture.

11. Shīrāzi Shirini (Persian Candies)

Colorful Persian candies made from various nuts, honey, and rose water. They're a sweet souvenir to bring back home.

Sweet Souvenir: A tasty treat to remember your visit.
Local Flavors: Made with locally sourced nuts, honey, and rose water.
Colorful & Eye-Catching: The candies are visually appealing and make great gifts.

12. Hafez Cafe (Traditional Persian Coffee)

A traditional coffee shop located near the tomb of Hafez. It's a great place to enjoy authentic Persian coffee and read some of Hafez's poetry.

Cultural Experience: Experience traditional Iranian coffee culture.
Poetic Atmosphere: Surrounded by the poetry of Hafez, it's a peaceful and contemplative space.
Authentic Coffee: Serves authentic Persian coffee made with traditional methods.

13. Vakil Bazaar (Traditional Market)

A bustling marketplace where you can find a variety of local goods, including spices, textiles, and traditional Persian sweets.

Shopping Experience: Explore the vibrant Iranian market culture.
Local Goods: Find unique, locally sourced goods.
Historic Architecture: The market is housed in historic buildings dating back to the Zand dynasty.

14. Pasargadae (Ancient Persian City)

The capital of the ancient Achaemenid Empire founded by Cyrus the Great. It's a remarkable testament to ancient Persian architecture and history.

Historical Significance: Walk in the footsteps of history at this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Ancient Architecture: Admire the impressive structures dating back to over 2500 years ago.
Peaceful Atmosphere: Enjoy a serene and reflective atmosphere amidst ancient ruins.

15. Persepolis (Ancient Persian Capital)

The ceremonial capital of the Achaemenid Empire, showcasing magnificent palaces and reliefs. It's a must-visit for history enthusiasts.

Historical Significance: Walk in the footsteps of history at this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Impressive Architecture: Admire the impressive palaces and reliefs that stand testament to ancient Persian grandeur.
Peaceful Atmosphere: Enjoy a serene and reflective atmosphere amidst ancient ruins.