Hafez Persian Cuisine Expands to Chinatown

A locals’ favorite since 2014 when it was known as the Aria Mediterranean Restaurant, the westside’s Hafez Persian Cuisine re-branded itself earlier this year with the same owner, same chef, same menu, and now, a new location for its traditional dishes.

The family owned restaurant is preparing to remodel a vacant space at 3900 Spring Mountain Road, a short walk from Meet Fresh and across the street from The Center at Spring Mountain.

The original Hafez location, tucked away at the retail center at the intersection of Rainbow Boulevard and Westcliff Drive, is six miles to the northwest from the new site. Paperwork was filed earlier this month to begin the substantial remodel.

Open Wednesday to Monday, from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m., the Hafez menu includes lamb shank, beef koobideh, chicken soltani, a collection of stews and kabob dishes, and saffron ice cream or baklava for dessert.

Yet to be announced by the owners, a future opening date has not been revealed.

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