We've tried many Persian restaurants, and this one is by far our favorite. The food is fresh, homemade, and full of authentic flavor. The kebabs are excellent, the lamb shank is outstanding, and we recently tried the koofte,it was absolutely delicious. This is the best Persian restaurant in Orange County. The food is consistently amazing, and the customer service is always warm and attentive. Highly recommended! read more

A few years ago, I left a very negative review based on an unfortunate experience with the previous owner. Since then, the restaurant has changed ownership, and I felt it was only fair to come back and update my review. The difference is truly night and day. The new owner has completely transformed this place. The staff is welcoming, respectful, and genuinely cares about their customers. The food is fresh, delicious, and the overall atmosphere is warm and inviting. I really appreciate seeing a business make such a positive change. I'm happy I decided to give Hafez Cafe another chance, and it absolutely deserves a 5-star review now. Wishing the new owner and the team continued success! read more

Wonderful traditional Persian cuisine. The meal begins with a complimentary Persian tea service, which is a lovely touch and sets the tone for the experience. The rice is fragrant and prepared with fresh ingredients, and the kababs are incredibly moist and flavorful--clearly marinated with care. The tahdig was excellent--crispy, golden, and perfectly prepared. The service was exceptional. The staff was attentive throughout the meal, always one step ahead without being intrusive. Everyone was warm, welcoming, and knowledgeable about the menu, making the experience even more enjoyable. Delicious food, outstanding hospitality, and an authentic Persian dining experience. We look forward to returning. read more

A bargain at twice the price. We had a wonderful meal there. The lamb chops were tender and incredibly well flavored. The rice is outstanding. The koobideh was seasoned beautifully and moist. Definitely putting this on our list to come back too frequently. read more

Updating my review from last year: I tried a new dish, Fesenjon (Persian chicken stew with ground toasted walnuts and pomegranate molasses), and it was delicious. Of course I couldn't finish all of it, so I took it home and had it again the following day. Anita was so gracious, helping me decide what to order, and her recommendation was spot on. I will go back the next time I'm in the area -- impossible dream, but it would be wonderful if they opened a restaurant in the Palm Springs area, closer to where I live. read more

Delicious food and also Great customer service . Inside you feel comfortable and feel like home.

So I went here yesterday after not having been for a couple years and my God this place is incredibly better. Asked my server and she told me it's under new management, before the koobideh was dry and now it's so good I'm still thinking about it a day later. Complimentary taftoon bread and persian tea is a huge plus. This place gives heaven on a fork serious competition and doesn't have a wait, definitely check it out if you haven't. read more

Hafez Cafe - Koobideh Kabob - Persian/Iranian Near Me - Laguna Hills, California

Hafez Restaurant One of the best Persian food experiences in Orange County! The staff are incredibly kind and welcoming, and they even serve complimentary chai which adds a lovely touch. We had the ash reshteh, ash jo, and koobideh kebab, everything was delicious. The freshly baked bread they make in-house is amazing. [[HIGHLIGHT]]Great atmosphere and beautiful design too.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] Highly recommend! read more

Hafez Cafe - Khoobideh kebab , Ash Reshteh, and Barley Soup. - Persian/Iranian Near Me - Laguna Hills, California

Great authentic Persian food that reminds you of home cooked meals. Specialties include Dizi, ash Reshteh, fresh Taftoon bread among all kinds of kabobs. read more

Hafez Cafe - Authentic Taftoon bread - Persian/Iranian Near Me - Laguna Hills, California

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We went to Hafez for dine in and the restaurant was packed. With that came slow service and a substantial wait time to get our food. We were with a group and ordered a variety of breakfast and lunch plates. Everyone was very happy with their dishes. We had Halim, eggs/cream/honey, koobideh kabob, Cornish hen, kaleh pacheh, and adasi. I had the Halim (which is my fave) and my husband had the Cornish hen that I tried as well. The hen was fantastic and one of the best I've had in a long time. The fresh baked bread is definitely the star of the show and the black tea served with the meal is a very nice touch. The negative: I don't love the atmosphere and wish all the food were served in ceramic dish-ware. The kabobs are still served in melamine/plastic plates, which is highly toxic when exposed to heat and leach into the food. I'm taking a star out for this. read more

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I am giving 2 stars for the previous time when 2 dishes were good and one was bad. For today, I give it less than one star. Called in for an order. It was accepted. When we got there, they said sorry, out if the rice (baghali polo). The lamb was terrible. They touted their special - koofte tabrizi. I ordered some. When it arrived, the koofteh had been pressed flat. I was as pissed as the koofteh had been flattened down! And so, so salty. Thus is not a cheap place, but it certainly will be tbe last place we'd revisit. read more

Hafez Cafe - This is how the koofteh was packed!, - Persian/Iranian Near Me - Laguna Hills, California

Amazing authentic Persian food with excellent quality and flavor. Their breakfast is also delicious and fresh, and you can really feel the care they put into every dish. The service is warm, friendly, and very welcoming. [[HIGHLIGHT]]Great hospitality and a comfortable atmosphere.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] We will definitely come back again. Highly recommend trying this place! read more

Hafez Cafe - Koobideh Kebab, Ash Reshteh, and Barley Soup. - Persian/Iranian Near Me - Laguna Hills, California

[[HIGHLIGHT]]Hafez Cafe has a fabulous vibe and beautiful décor that reminds me of "Lux Talayee " in Tehran.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] [[HIGHLIGHT]]The atmosphere is elegant and welcoming.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] The food has improved tremendously--the flavors are much better than before. Everything was fresh and delicious. -Highly recommend!!! read more

We visited today under the new ownership, and what a transformation! The décor has been completely redesigned with beautiful Persian touches, including traditional rugs that create a warm and authentic atmosphere. The food was exceptional. The lamb and koobideh genuinely reminded us of Iran, flavorful, tender, and cooked perfectly. The service was next level, with generous portions of lemons, onions, and fresh sabzi (mint and herbs) served alongside the meal. One of our favorite touches was the complimentary pot of tea, which made the experience feel even more welcoming and authentic. [[HIGHLIGHT]]The ambiance was warm, relaxing, and inviting from the moment we walked in.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] Since we live nearby, this will definitely become our go-to Persian restaurant. No more driving all the way to Irvine! read more

New management! .. we can in tonight to get our usual and figured we may or may not get in.. but pleased to say it was great service, better tasting food and they don't shut the door an hr before closing time ; p (like the last one) Yay! read more

This is the best Kaleh pache i have ever tasted in my life , i have never tasted anything like this before even in Iran. Sina was our server and he was so friendly, he made our meal more enjoyable, he is the best lemon guy read more

Hafez Cafe - Kaleh - Persian/Iranian Near Me - Laguna Hills, California

I absolutely love this restaurant. I ordered my usual tonight. 1/2 Salad, 1/2 rice, extra salad dressing. The delivery service did a fantastic job delivering - the food was fresh and hot as usual. Unfortunately, the Salad and salad dressing were missing. I am so bummed. The salad is just so good. I hope next time- My order will be delivered as I ordered it. read more

Hafez Cafe - Ordered my usual.... Unfortunately the salad was missing. Meal was still delicious. - Persian/Iranian Near Me - Laguna Hills, California

I really love this restaurant. Excellent food. Fast service. Amazing location, easy to park my car. Prices are very reasonable and you get excellent quality service. [[HIGHLIGHT]]The place is extremely clean.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] read more

Hafez Cafe - Management is amazing - Persian/Iranian Near Me - Laguna Hills, California

[[HIGHLIGHT]]This cafe was the first place I felt at home and not in a rush to pay and leave![[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] [[HIGHLIGHT]]Nice ambiance, good quality food.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] Staff are very friendly. World cup live is displayed too! Would definitely recommend and come back. read more

We stop by here today for lunch looking for good chicken kabobs and kobideh . I was reminded of went to many years ago, but we haven't stopped by in a while and I remember it was really good.. They did not disappoint. The family deal was the best and it could be served in House. They started out with some flatbread and butter, which was awesome. The chicken kabob and beef/chicken kobideh where are easily the best in the area. Very moist and juicy. It came with a salad and rice. Plenty for four people. Since we ate at the restaurant, they served some Persian tea, which was delicious. The service was awesome also. Highly recommend. read more

Hafez Cafe - Chicken kebab, Chicken Kobideh Beef Kobideh with grilled tomatoes - Persian/Iranian Near Me - Laguna Hills, California

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Today we had sina help us out, super kind and helpful, very good and fast service, Their Kale was delicious Will come back! , definitely recommend this place. read more

Hafez Cafe - Today we had sina helping us out, super kind and helpful, very good service and their kale pache was delicious, definitely recommend - Persian/Iranian Near Me - Laguna Hills, California

Perfect Persian food came from San Diego , had beef barg . The meat super tender and juicy Definitely recommended to my family and friends read more

The Persian food here is top tier! The koobideh is so fresh and so delicious. *Chefs kiss* The service and ambience is really good too. The waiter named Sina is super helpful and friendly. I will definitely come back here! The best Persian food in South OC. read more

Great customer service and amazing food. We ordered some food through Doordash and needed to change the order. I called and spoke with a very nice gentleman and he was extremely helpful. The food was great I definitely recommend this place. read more

Great food and great service! We ordered the Chicken Kabab, Koobideh Kabab, and Ghormeh Sabzi, and everything was delicious and full of flavor. The meats were cooked perfectly, and the Ghormeh Sabzi tasted authentic and homemade. We will definitely be back! read more

Simply the best! [[HIGHLIGHT]]It has a luxurious atmosphere, just like "LUXE TALAEI."[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] The service is excellent, and the food is always delicious and beautifully presented. I usually go there for breakfast and Kale-pache , every visit has been a great experience. Highly recommended! read more

I miss kebab express. The dark meat chicken kabab here is good tho. I thought the shish was tasty and the beef koobideh was fine. But the money maker is that chicken kabab. Didnt like the special (tanchin?) but i think thats cultural as its my first time getting that dish read more

Amazing food. Some of the best Persian food. The service was on point. Will definitely go back.

The first time I went to Hafez cafe I was at the Jordan market across the parking lot and I smelled the kabob. Hafez cafe you must try the beef khoobideh kabob (comes with 2 skewers). The ground beef is seasoned nicely and they grill it to perfection. Paired with the basmati rice and a grilled tomato it absolutely hits the spot. But my favorite part is the bread that they make in house, it's freshly baked and the butter they give you will melt away. It will take at least 15 minutes to get your order so I would recommend you call ahead. The employees are always kind and helpful. If you're in the Laguna Hills area and craving kabob, you should give Hafez Cafe a try. read more

We came here for our friends birthday Had the best kaleh pacheh after long time . Taste even better than Iran .I'll recommend to my family and friends. read more

I'm not sure if it under new management right now. Because menu a bit different and taste different for me

Amazing place with high customer service. Love the taste of food highly recommend for having a persian breakfast.

Hafez Restaurant is one of those places you can confidently visit at any time of day. Whether you're stopping by for a fresh, satisfying breakfast, a traditional Persian lunch, or a flavorful dinner, the quality and consistency of the food are clearly a priority. [[HIGHLIGHT]]The atmosphere is warm and welcoming, making it a great spot for families as well as casual gatherings.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] The staff are courteous and professional, and it's easy to see that care goes into both the service and the presentation. The dishes are prepared with fresh ingredients, and the flavors reflect authentic Persian cooking--something that isn't always easy to find. With a restaurant that serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner, it's natural that experiences can vary from time to time. What truly stands out about Hafez Restaurant, however, is the ongoing effort to maintain high standards, listen to customer feedback, and continuously improve. This commitment is likely why so many guests choose to return again and again. If you're looking for a place that offers great food, a comfortable environment, and reliable service throughout the day, Hafez Restaurant is a solid and trustworthy choice. رستوران حافظ یکی از آن جاهایی است که هر ساعتی از روز می‌توانید با خیال راحت به آن اعتماد کنید. از صبحانه‌های گرم و تازه گرفته تا ناهارهای اصیل ایرانی و شام‌های خوش‌طعم، کیفیت غذا و تنوع منو کاملاً مشخص است که با دقت و تجربه طراحی شده‌اند. فضای رستوران صمیمی و خانوادگی است و برخورد پرسنل محترمانه و حرفه‌ای می‌باشد؛ موضوعی که مخصوصاً برای کسانی که به دنبال آرامش و حس خوب هنگام غذا خوردن هستند، اهمیت زیادی دارد. غذاها با مواد تازه تهیه می‌شوند و طعم‌ها اصالت خود را حفظ کرده‌اند--چیزی که در همه رستوران‌ها به‌راحتی پیدا نمی‌شود. طبیعی است که در هر مجموعه‌ای، مخصوصاً جایی که در سه وعده صبحانه، ناهار و شام فعال است، تجربه‌ها ممکن است برای افراد مختلف کمی متفاوت باشد. اما چیزی که در رستوران حافظ ثابت مانده، تلاش مداوم برای حفظ کیفیت، گوش دادن به مشتریان و بهبود خدمات است. همین رویکرد حرفه‌ای باعث شده بسیاری از مشتریان به‌صورت مداوم بازگردند. اگر به دنبال رستورانی هستید که هم غذای خوب، هم محیط مناسب و هم خدمات قابل اعتماد ارائه دهد، رستوران حافظ انتخابی مطمئن است. read more

Hafez Cafe - Kaleh and Halim with one of best persian bread کله پاچه و حلیم نان لواش - Persian/Iranian Near Me - Laguna Hills, California

The fesenjen and ash soup were outstanding! Charming intimacy and great service. Highly recommended!! read more

wow perfect food real taste one of the best services [[HIGHLIGHT]]would like the atmosphere, music and a nice smile on the staff's face[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] Don't forget to ask them the warm and delicious bread. read more

Today, I was craving Abgoosht, Persia's cherished national dish, an ancient lamb stew bursting with flavor. The traditional way to enjoy it is by mashing the meat into a paste and creating small sandwiches with fresh herbs, followed by alternating bites of Salad-e Shirazi and Liteh pickle. I found an amazing spot that serves top-notch Persian food, with excellent customer service, a clean and tidy environment, and high-quality dishes. The place was bustling, but the atmosphere was vibrant and welcoming. If you're craving authentic Persian food, this spot is definitely worth checking out. They even bake their own fresh bread in a traditional Tanoor oven, which is both warm and delicious. The menu offers a variety of Persian dishes, including classics like beef soltani, kaleh bareh (lamb head soup), and of course, Abgoosht. The restaurant also serves a fantastic tea blend with sugar cubes, which adds a nice touch. Hafez Cafe in Laguna Hills, California, has a family-friendly vibe with outdoor seating and plenty of parking. It's a great spot for kids and groups, and the portions are generous. The chicken is always flavorful, and they offer healthy options, plus unlimited tea. The cozy, casual ambiance and the family-owned charm make it a great spot for a laid-back meal. Other popular dishes include beef kobideh, joojeh kabob, kale pacheh, Ashe Reshteh, hummus, mast o'khiar, Persian burgers, and more. The food quality is exceptional, and the prices are very reasonable for the quantity and taste. The best part of Abgoosht is enjoying it the traditional way, which really brings a sense of nostalgia. For many, this dish is linked to fond memories of family gatherings from the past. Abgoosht, also known as Ab-goosht, Abgousht, or Dizi (after the traditional stone pot it's made in), holds a special place in Persian culture. You get to mash the meat yourself with a meat masher, combining it with beans, potatoes, and tomatoes. The ingredients meld together into a rich, hearty stew, and you get to experience it in a truly hands-on way. For me, it reminds me of sitting under the Korsi, enjoying a warm bowl of Abgoosht while the snow fell outside. Those moments are unforgettable, and they really capture the essence of this comforting, traditional dish. The mashed meat and soup are served separately, allowing you to enjoy each element on its own. You mash the meat, beans, potatoes, and tomatoes into a flavorful paste, while sipping the savory broth as a comforting soup. This separation allows you to fully savor each part of the dish in its traditional form. I even filmed the steps of how to eat it in the traditional way after you order. read more

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On our way home from the airport we stopped for dinner. First, the location is convenient and right off the freeway. Immediately we were served delicious hot tea. They make their own bread which is delicious and comes out hot and fresh. We had the lentil soup, two kinds of chicken kabob, and one beef kabob. We ended with baklava. Food and service were excellent. When in the area we will come again. read more

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[[HIGHLIGHT]]Nice and clean restaurant.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] Amazing & very friendly service. Very delicious food. Generous portions. We will be back for sure. read more

This place is so close to my house and I was surprised I hadn't tried it before. It's right across from Jordan market so after you order, you can go grocery shopping. I ordered the ground mix which was beef koobideh and chicken kebab to go. The food wasn't quite ready in the time they quoted, so I sat down to wait and they gave me hot tea. The service was great. The food was delicious. I got kebabs and it came with rice, a tomato, and a bag that had sumac, onions, lemon, and butter. Also included in my bag was a huge piece of homemade bread. read more

Hafez Cafe is a gem! The Persian food is authentic and absolutely delicious. Every bite felt traditional and flavorful. The people and service are amazing, making the experience even more enjoyable. Highly recommend if you're craving true Persian cuisine! read more