I truly enjoy seeing the emergence of second generation ethnic food restaurants in our area. They remain true to the essence of their food origins while experimenting with the way they are ordered and served in upgraded surroundings. Prior to visiting Bistro Pasargad with my family for a Saturday dinner outing, I looked at available pictures on the web. What I saw made me anticipate the visit.

Bistro Pasargad is located off Lee Highway in a strip mall that is oddly perpendicular to the road. As you approach the location, all that you can see is a giant Starbuck’s sign. As we pulled up to the front of the restaurant at around 7PM, we were surprised by the sight of a single family dining visible through the large glass façade. Determined to eat kebabs we pressed on and entered the bistro. It is am expensively decorated place that has in its’ center a large fountain pool with pearl blue tiles. Walls are adorned with moldings done in a French Carton Plié style. Around the perimeter, you can see a divans covered with multi colored shiny satin pillows. All and all, inside of Bistro Pasargad is a great mélange of eastern and western motifs.

As we sat down, we were greeted by a shy waitress who gave us the oversized menus. Shortly after, we were served sliced pita bread with a cup of refreshing Turkish Cacik (yogurt mixed with garlic and cucumber slices). While placing our order, we contemplated about drinking wine or beer with our meal which was interrupted by our waitress who said “We don’t serve alcohol in here.” There goes that idea. Apparently, they also don’t serve sparkling water either. So we ordered Coke and Sprite and Paneer Sabzi which is usually a good mix of white onion, fresh herbs like cilantro and basil, white feta cheese, etc. Most Persian restaurants in Los Angeles and Atlanta would serve this for free in a large bowl to every table. We were very surprised to see a very small plate served with herbs that looked like they have seen such better days with two thin slices of tomatoes and a small cube of feta cheese smaller than a match box. And for this they charge $4.99?

Anyway, we ordered a Barg for my wife, Jujeh for my mother-in-law, chicken for our kids and Barg and chicken kebab for me. All plates were served with a generous amount of meats rice and grilled tomatoes. Barg is often called the Sultan of Kebabs and it is made with strips of meat made from marinated Filet Mignon, cooked to perfection. Jujeh which boned in Cornish hen skewered and cooked on open flame broiler that gives its delicious crunchiness. And the Chicken Kebab made from boneless and skinless breast often marinated with Turmeric. All of the kebabs were tasty, juicy and cooked to perfection. Bistro Pasargad is an above average kebab restaurant that is ideal for lunch time. In my opinion, they have to start serving wine and beer if they want to attract more customers during dinner hours.

Bistro Pasargad
11725 Lee Highway Suite 15-A Fairfax
Phone: 571.432.0101