Restaurants Near the Mashhad Shrine | The Complete Foodie’s Guide Around Imam Reza’s Shrine
A trip to the holy city of Mashhad is incomplete without tasting the delicious and authentic local cuisine! Especially if you’re staying near the shrine of Imam Reza (PBUH), you’ll definitely want to find restaurants that are high-quality, clean, and easily accessible. In this comprehensive article, we explore the best restaurants close to the Mashhad shrine with full details, recommended menus, locations, and key features, so you can make the perfect choice whether you’re on a pilgrimage or leisure trip.
Best Restaurants Near the Mashhad Shrine
Pesaran Karim Restaurant (Khayyam Branch)
Cuisine: Iranian, traditional dishes, Biryani, Baghali Polo with meat
Address: North Khayyam Street, between Khayyam 23 and 25
Distance from Shrine: About 10 minutes by taxi
Features: Clean and elegant space, high food quality, fresh meat, authentic taste
Special Note: Famous for their Baghali Polo with meat and Chelow Mahiche (lamb shank with rice).
Rezaei Restaurant
Cuisine: Kebabs, Chelow Kebab, grilled chicken, Iranian stews
Address: Imam Reza Street 10, before Sarshour Alley
Distance from Shrine: 5 minutes on foot
Features: Good quality, more affordable prices compared to other nearby restaurants, friendly staff
Special Note: Often has lines for lunch and dinner, but food turnover is quick.
Mahestan Restaurant
Cuisine: Iranian, traditional, main courses, desserts
Address: Imam Reza Street 5, Shahid Andarzgoo Alley
Distance from Shrine: About 6 minutes on foot
Features: Family-friendly atmosphere, budget-friendly, fresh and tasty food
Special Note: Must try their Tabrizi Koofteh (meatballs) and special chicken dishes.
Babaghodrat Restaurant (Traditional Bazaarcheh)
Cuisine: Traditional, Dizi (stone pot stew), Ash (thick soup), Mashhadi Sholeh
Address: Babaghodrat Bazaarcheh, corner of 17 Shahrivar Square
Distance from Shrine: About 10 minutes by taxi
Features: Traditional decor, nostalgic atmosphere, great for photos
Special Note: Stone pot Dizi served with fresh bread and traditional dishes.
Nasim Lebanon Restaurant
Cuisine: Arabic, Lebanese, falafel, shawarma, hummus
Address: Imam Reza Street 8
Distance from Shrine: Less than 7 minutes on foot
Features: Halal Arabic food, perfect for those who want light and different flavors
Special Note: Their special falafel and chicken shawarma are very popular.
Armitage Golshan Food Court
Cuisine: Iranian, fast food, seafood, international
Address: Armitage Golshan Tower, Vakilabad Boulevard
Distance from Shrine: About 15 minutes by taxi
Features: Diverse options suitable for different tastes, modern environment
Special Note: Excellent choice for families with children.
Chain Fast Food Near the Shrine
Shebediz Pizza (Imam Reza 6)
Hot Chicken (Imam Reza 2)
Khalil Sandwich (near Reza Bazaar)
Ideal for those looking for quick and light meals.
Why Are Restaurants Near the Shrine Important?
Restaurants near the Mashhad shrine are very popular due to their quick access for pilgrims, diverse food options, and family-friendly atmosphere. Some serve authentic Mashhadi dishes such as Sholeh, Dizi, or Chelow Goosht, which you definitely should try.
Tips for Choosing a Restaurant Near the Shrine
Busy Times: Lunch and dinner hours tend to be crowded; it’s better to plan meals earlier.
Advance Reservation: During holidays and pilgrimage seasons, popular restaurants may be fully booked.
Food Quality: Choose restaurants with good reputations and high ratings on websites or Google.
Hygiene: Pay attention to the cleanliness of the restaurant and staff uniforms.
Traditional Mashhadi Dishes You Shouldn’t Miss
Sholeh Mashhadi
Digcheh Mashhadi
Chelow Goosht (rice with meat)
Shandiz Shishlik
Special Ash Reshteh (thick noodle soup)
Frequently Asked Questions about Restaurants Near the Mashhad Shrine
Which is the best Iranian restaurant near the shrine?
Pesaran Karim Restaurant is one of the top choices for authentic Iranian dishes with quality meat and unforgettable flavors.
Is there a traditional restaurant with old-style decor near the shrine?
Yes, Babaghodrat Restaurant in the traditional bazaarcheh is very popular for its old architecture and traditional menu.
Are Arabic and Lebanese foods available around the shrine?
Yes, Nasim Lebanon Restaurant offers delicious Arabic dishes and famous falafel.
Can I order takeout from these restaurants?
Most restaurants near the shrine provide takeout services, which is especially useful during busy times.
What are the price ranges of restaurants near the shrine?
Prices vary from budget-friendly family restaurants to upscale dining options.
Conclusion
When visiting Mashhad, choosing a good restaurant near the shrine can make your trip even sweeter. From traditional and authentic dishes to fast food and international cuisines, there are plenty of options around Imam Reza’s shrine to satisfy every taste. We recommend including a mix of traditional and modern culinary experiences in your travel plan for a complete taste and cultural journey.
