Since 1982, Shaherzad has been the established choice among this neighborhood’s myriad Persian dining options. Inside, the room is a pretty combination of cream walls, blue furnishings and metallic accents. Larger tables attract groups of well-dressed ladies during lunch.

Everyone is welcomed with a basket of hot flatbread, served right from the oven on display through a glass wall. The menu goes on to list just about anything that a fan of Iranian cooking could wish for, including platters of crunchy salads, sizzling skewers of meat and an array of succulent stews. Kebabs are served with rice, but for a small charge you can upgrade to pilafs with wonderful combinations of sweet and savory flavors—like sour cherries and sautéed onion.