Lunch at Ariana’s Persian Kitchen

Lunch at Ariana’s Persian Kitchen in Atlantis The Royal was an experience I won’t soon forget. From the moment I stepped in, it felt like I had entered someone’s gorgeous luxury villa—a place where elegance meets warmth, and every detail, from the decor to the service, feels intentionally curated.

This Is No Ordinary Dining Spot

This female-led concept delivers a fresh take on Persian cuisine! The restaurant seamlessly blends time-honoured classics with a refreshingly modern twist. And while Chef Ariana is a celebrated television personality, the food and service speak for themselves, rivaling what you’d expect from any Michelin-starred restaurant.

The Setting

Let’s talk about the ambiance—it’s breathtaking! The vaulted ceilings, the intricate patterns, and the soft natural light make you feel like you’re dining in a palace but it felt like walking into someone’s home. Even the bathrooms are a work of art! Decked out in a stunning pink palette, think all shades of pink. It’s a little slice of luxury that’s worth mentioning and capturing Instagram worthy content.

The atmosphere was perfect for a client business lunch. It struck that ideal balance of being chic yet inviting, sophisticated yet comfortable.

The Menu

This menu has an option for everyone! We started with two incredible dishes: the Watermelon, Cherries & “Lighvan” Cheese Salad and the Cold Mazzeh Delight, featuring feta cheese, fresh herbs, sprouted walnuts, and a sprinkle of rose powder. Both were light, refreshing, and bursting with flavor—exactly what you want to ease into a Persian feast.

Watermelon, Cherries & “Lighvan” Cheese Salad and the Cold Mazzeh Delight

To sip, we had the Signature Saffron Gold Cocktail, a drink as luxurious as it sounds. It was bright, fragrant, and perfectly balanced, setting the tone for what was to come.

For the mains, we ordered a shared platter that included lamb chops, chicken, and prawns. While I don’t eat meat, I couldn’t stop raving about the prawns—they were plump, juicy, and seasoned to perfection. We paired the platter with Persian Jeweled Rice, which was an absolute showstopper. The fragrant saffron, sweet bursts of dried fruit, and the crunchy pistachios created the perfect bite every time.

One of my business partners ordered the Fesenjoon, a dish featuring tender duck legs roasted for three hours in a rich, tangy walnut and pomegranate sauce. It looked divine and got rave reviews from across the table.

Dessert to Remember

Their signature dessert: Bastani Sonati is a dreamy combination of saffron, frozen clotted cream, rose water, and pistachios, and it’s served with tea in the most beautiful presentation. Every bite was indulgent yet light, and it pared well with their tea which truly captured the heart of Persian cuisine.

Final Thoughts

Ariana’s Persian Kitchen isn’t just a restaurant; it’s an experience. The food is extraordinary, the ambiance is stunning, and the service is impeccable. It’s a space where tradition meets modernity, and where every detail—from the pink-tiled bathroom to the jeweled rice—feels like it’s been touched with care. Whether you’re hosting a business lunch or simply treating yourself, this is the kind of place that leaves an impression.