A bustling lunch crowd appreciates the welcoming hospitality at this family-run Persian favorite in the heart of the North Side. Intricate tilework and patterned wall hangings offset the closely spaced linen-topped tables and add touches of elegance to the homey space. Kashk-e-bademjan is a savory mash of pan-fried eggplant garnished with caramelized onions and yogurt, perfect while perusing the kebabs on the menu. Succulent, hand-formed lamb koobideh and beef tenderloin skewers are juicy and charred with a hint of spice, and vegetarian offerings like tadiq with ghormeh sabzi play up the textural contrast of crispy pan-browned saffron rice against flavorful stewed spinach. In a hurry? Head across the street to the fast-casual sis for lunch specials.