Navigating the complex reality of a nation constantly vilified by western geopolitical narratives requires a rare blend of empathy and journalistic courage. When Parts Unknown traveled to Iran in 2014, the mission was entirely focused on bypassing the ominous headlines to uncover the profound hospitality and rich cultural heritage of the Persian people. The culinary traditions here are ancient and breathtakingly sophisticated, built on a foundation of fragrant saffron, tart pomegranate, slow-cooked meats, and the most exquisitely prepared rice on earth. Far from a land of unyielding austerity, the food reveals a warm, vibrant society deeply connected to poetry, family, and shared meals. From bustling bazaars serving up massive platters of sizzling chelow kebab to humble spots dishing out comforting bowls of dizi, the contrast between the government’s harsh image and the people’s boundless generosity is staggering. It is a powerful reminder that governments and their citizens are rarely the same entity. Discover the aromatic, deeply comforting dishes that made this journey one of the most eye-opening experiences of his career.
When Anthony Bourdain visited Iran on his show Parts Unknown, he and his crew picked many restaurants. Here are all the addresses and the dishes showcased in a convenient list.
This is Parts Unknown, season 4, episode 7. It first aired on November 2, 2014.
READ MORE: KOLKATA AND MUMBAI: ALL OF THE RESTAURANTS PICKED BY ANTHONY BOURDAIN ON NO RESERVATIONS
DISH – Chelow Kebab – Anthony Bourdain Iran
WHAT IS IT?
They had chelow kebab made of ground lamb and spices and Persian rice.
“Kebab wouldn’t be complete without Persian rice. Fluffy, long grain, and perfectly seasoned with saffron. The rice in this country is like nothing you’ve ever had.” -Anthony Bourdain
WHERE IS IT?
Cafe Shandiz
G3W9+R97, Urmia, West Azerbaijan Province, Iran
Urmia, Iran
DISH – Dizi – Anthony Bourdain Iran
WHAT IS IT?
They had dizi, an Iranian dish made of potatoes, chickpeas, water and lamb.
“Add a little fat, mash it up with potatoes and chickpeas. That’s good.” -Anthony Bourdain
WHERE IS IT?
Moslem Restaurant
تهران منطقه ۱۲ No. 15, Khordad St, Iran
Tehran, Iran
READ MORE: ANTHONY BOURDAIN RUST BELT : ALL OF THE RESTAURANTS PICKED ON NO RESERVATIONS
DISH – Biryani – Parts Unknown Iran
WHAT IS IT?
Anthony Bourdain visited Haaj Mahmoud Shefa’at Beryani located at Isfahan, Iran.
They had biryani made of minced lamb shoulder, onion, turmeric, cinnamon, mint, saffron and rice.
“This is delicious.” -Anthony Bourdain
WHERE IS IT?
Haaj Mahmoud Shefa’at Beryani
Isfahan Province, Isfahan, Majlesi St, MM9M+3FW, Iran
Isfahan, Iran
READ MORE: ANTHONY BOURDAIN COPENHAGEN : ALL OF THE RESTAURANTS PICKED ON PARTS UNKNOWN
The Iranian journey stands as arguably the most historically and politically significant episode in his entire catalog. The beautiful, hopeful meals shared with Washington Post journalist Jason Rezaian and his wife Yeganeh took on a heartbreaking and controversial resonance when the couple was detained by Iranian authorities mere weeks after filming. This stark reality transformed a beautiful travelogue into a chilling reminder of the very real dangers present in the region. Yet, the enduring legacy of the episode is its triumphant showcase of Persian hospitality, proving that human connection can flourish even in the most restrictive environments. Look past the political noise and explore the incredible depth of Persian cuisine and culture.
