Ravagh Persian Grill: A Truly Pleasant Surprise

After walking by everyday for over a month and seeing progress on the construction of the new location of Ravagh Persian Grill (1135 1st. Ave), it finally opened and we were excited! We made a point to try it within the first two weeks it was open. We did not realize this very same restaurant had been open a block from our apartment the whole time, in a much smaller location, and was just reopening a few blocks down in a much larger, newer location.

As soon as we walked in, we were greeted by the most friendly waiter with the biggest smile on his face. His enthusiasm was quite contagious because he made being there such a wonderful experience. He also was extremely helpful in explaining the dishes on the menu and helped us select great entrees to share.

Complimentary Bread and dipping sauces

The complimentary bread that was given to us was warm and divine. It almost reminded me of Naan bread that you have at Indian restaurants. It was accompanied with yogurt sauce and a more tomato based dipping sauce. Both were very delicious and refreshing, especially the yogurt sauce. The sauces could also be used later in the meal on the kebabs and the rice.

Sambuseh
Crispy fried dumplings, stuffed with chickpeas & herbs, served with tangy chutney

For our first appetizer, we ordered the Sambuseh. It was a fried dumpling filled with chickpeas and herbs. The outside had the perfect amount of crunch while keeping the inside soft and flavorful. It came with a tangy dipping sauce that complimented the flavors quite nicely. 

Stuffed Pepper 
Green pepper stuffed with ground lamb, rice & herbs, slowly simmering with light tomato sauce

For our second appetizer, we ordered the stuffed pepper. It was a green pepper stuffed with ground lamb, rice, herbs, and covered in tomato sauce. From the description of this dish, I was expecting it to be similar to the stuffed pepper that I make at home, which is more Italian inspired. To my surprise, it was completely different in every way. The spices used in it, gave it such a strong, flavorful taste that tasted extremely Mediterranean in every way.  The waiter explained to us that these are made fresh everyday and are one of the most homemade items on the menu. I could tell this dish was made with love. Next time I make stuffed peppers at home, I am going to have to try this version instead!

Combination Kebab 
One skewer of Barg, one skewer of Jujeh & two skewers of Koobideh

The main dish we ordered was the Combination Kebab platter so that we could try a few kinds of kebabs. It included a skewer of Barg, a skewer of Jujeh, and two skewers of Koobideh. 

The Barg was juicy strips of sirloin marinated in a special age old recipe. This skewer was extremely flavorful, tender, and full of juice. Normally, I'm resistant to order kebabs because they tend to be dry and flavorless.This skewer was exactly the opposite. I loved it! 

The Jujeh skewer was pieces of Cornish hen in lemon saffron marinade, char-grilled to perfection. This was different from any skewer I have ever had because of the lemon flavor. I really loved that I could taste the lemon flavor and that the Cornish hen pieces remained moist and tender, even after being grilled. 

The Koobideh was barbecued chopped beef on a skewer. The beef was marinated in many spices and had such a great flavor. This was no boring, dry skewer. 

After sampling all 3 kinds, I decided that my favorite skewer was the Barg, with the Jujeh being a close 2nd. 

Basmati Rice

The meal was accompanied with Basmati Rice and also grilled vegetables that were grilled to perfection. 

Grilled Vegetables

I definitely plan to return to this restaurant, as it was so delicious and so authentic. Also, the atmosphere and service was really fresh and inviting.
We were sitting next to a family that must frequent this place often, because we over heard them telling their niece that "Ravagh was not as good as "home", as in the Middle East, but was the BEST you can get around here." I thought that was such an amazing statement and compliment for the restaurant.
Also, we watched them receive a dish that was not on the menu but is customary to Persian cuisine, that I definitely plan to order next time. It can be described as Crispy Rice from the bottom of the pot covered in Pomegranate Chicken Stew. The rice is also mixed with potatoes and some type of bread to make a base layer for the stew to sit on. The waiter advised us that the base layer is called Tahdig, and he suggested to order it with the Khoresh Fesenjan Stew, which is crushed walnuts with boneless chicken, cooked in pomegranate paste.
We definitely will be back for that and I can't wait!