0 Followers
Lavash
Master Critic Reviews (3 Lists)
Lavash
8.6
Persian restaurant on Irving known for charcoal-grilled kebabs, saffron rice, and herb-forward stews, with a heated sidewalk patio for al fresco meals. Locals use it for small celebrations and reliable group dinners thanks to steady execution and warm hospitality.
Must-Try Dishes:
Barg (beef tenderloin) kebab, Ghormeh sabzi stew, Saffron chicken kebab with zereshk rice
Scores:
Value: 8
Service: 8.4
Consistency: 8.9
Food Quality: 9.2
Atmosphere: 7.6
Cultural Relevance: 8.6
What makes it special: Charcoal-grilled Persian kebabs and stews with a heated patio.
Who should go: Couples and small groups craving Persian classics
When to visit: Evenings and weekends; reserve for peak times
What to order: Barg kebab, saffron chicken, ghormeh sabzi
Insider tip: Ask for half-rice, half-salad if you want a lighter plate.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking only along Irving and 9th; spots fill quickly after 6pm but nearby residential blocks open up later in the evening.
Dress code: Smart casual; jeans are fine but most guests lean neat—collared shirts or a sundress fit the tone.
Noise level: Moderate—buzzing but controlled, easy to hold a conversation indoors or on the heated patio.
Weekend wait: 30–45 minutes without a reservation; call ahead for outdoor seating.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait; walk-ins are easily seated.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—numerous options like eggplant stew, salads, and grilled vegetable plates.
Vegan options: Limited—ask for vegan preparations of stews or rice dishes; staff is accommodating.
Gluten-free options: Yes—most kebabs and rice dishes are naturally gluten-free; avoid lavash bread.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes—warm lighting, attentive service, and the patio’s cozy ambiance make it a romantic yet relaxed setting.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Usually possible on weeknights, but weekends fill fast; patio tables are often booked, so call ahead if you want outdoor seating.
Is it kid-friendly? Moderately—kids are welcome and staff is friendly, but the space is more adult-oriented; better for families with older children.
Best For
Better for: Grilled meats and rice execution are superior to nearby Mediterranean spots; service and consistency stand out in the Inner Sunset.
Skip if: You’re seeking ultra-modern plating or full vegan menus—this is a classic Persian experience focused on tradition and comfort.
Lavash
8.4
Neighborhood Persian favorite for charcoal-grilled kebabs and hearty stews with attentive service. Reliable execution and portions suit casual date nights and family dinners near the park.
Must-Try Dishes:
Koobideh Kebab, Joojeh (Chicken) Kebab, Ghormeh Sabzi
Scores:
Value: 7.3
Service: 8.2
Consistency: 8.4
Food Quality: 8.9
Atmosphere: 6.5
Cultural Relevance: 8.1
What makes it special: Persian kebabs and stews prepared with care and consistency.
Who should go: Kebab lovers and family groups
When to visit: Tue–Thu 5–7 pm for fastest seating
What to order: Koobideh, joojeh, ghormeh sabzi
Insider tip: Request grilled tomato and peppers alongside kebabs.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Metered street parking along Irving and 9th Ave; generally manageable before 6:30pm but fills up quickly on weekends.
Dress code: Smart casual; jeans and nice tops are fine, but many guests dress up slightly for date nights.
Noise level: Moderate – lively but still conversational; quieter at early dinner hours.
Weekend wait: 30–45 minutes without a reservation; reservations strongly recommended after 7pm.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait; easy walk-in around opening hours.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes – several well-prepared stews and appetizers such as eggplant dip and herb rice.
Vegan options: Limited – 2–3 plant-based sides and salads, but main dishes rely on dairy or meat.
Gluten-free options: Yes – rice-based dishes and kebabs are naturally gluten-free; no dedicated prep area.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes – it’s cozy, warmly lit, and offers attentive but unobtrusive service. The Persian décor and shareable plates create a relaxed, romantic setting without feeling formal.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Possibly on weeknights before 6:30pm or after 8:30pm, but weekends are packed. Reservations are advisable, especially for groups.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes – suitable for older kids who enjoy grilled meats and rice plates. No high chairs or play area, so not ideal for toddlers.
Best For
Better for: Lavash excels at well-seasoned kebabs and stews served in a comfortable neighborhood setting, combining quality with consistency and hospitable service.
Skip if: You’re seeking a fast or budget meal—service is traditional sit-down and pricing leans upscale for the area.
Lavash
8.4
Neighborhood Persian staple known for charcoal-grilled kebabs, hearty stews, and warm hospitality steps from Golden Gate Park. Reliable execution and portions make it a go-to for casual date nights and family dinners.
Must-Try Dishes:
Koobideh kebab, Joojeh (chicken) kebab, Ghormeh sabzi
Scores:
Value: 7.4
Service: 8
Consistency: 8.4
Food Quality: 8.8
Atmosphere: 6.8
Cultural Relevance: 8.6
What makes it special: Persian comfort classics and charcoal-grilled kebabs done with care.
Who should go: Kebab lovers and stew seekers
When to visit: Weeknights 5–7pm for easiest seating
What to order: Koobideh, joojeh, ghormeh sabzi
Insider tip: Ask about off-menu grilled tomato and pepper with kebabs.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking along Irving and adjacent side streets; generally easier after 6:30pm but can be competitive during peak dinner hours. No dedicated lot or valet.
Dress code: Smart casual—jeans are fine, but many guests dress slightly up for date nights or family occasions.
Noise level: Moderate—comfortable for conversation even when busy; soft background music and steady table chatter.
Weekend wait: 30–45 minutes without a reservation during peak hours 7–8pm.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait, especially before 12:30pm.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—ample vegetarian entrées like eggplant stew, appetizers, and rice plates.
Vegan options: Moderate—some stews and salads can be made vegan on request; confirm with server.
Gluten-free options: Yes—rice-based dishes are naturally gluten-free, and kebabs are safe; no separate prep area.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes—romantic lighting, attentive service, and shareable plates create a relaxed but intimate setting without being too formal.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Usually, yes on weeknights or early evenings. On weekends, reservations are strongly recommended to avoid waits over 30 minutes.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes—families are common during earlier seatings; staff are accommodating, and the menu includes mild options suitable for kids 6+.
Best For
Better for: Lavash excels at grilled kebabs and homestyle Persian stews, offering warmer hospitality and richer flavors than nearby Mediterranean cafés.
Skip if: Skip if you’re looking for ultra-modern small plates or fusion takes—Lavash focuses on traditional Persian comfort food in a cozy, classic setting.