Middle East Market

4.6 (441 reviews)

ModerateGrocery, Persian/Iranian, Caterers

Closed • 10:00 am - 8:00 pm

Updated 1 month ago

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Middle East Market - Cardamom and rose water tea - Grocery Near Me - Berkeley, California

Middle East Market - Persian New Year table on display. - Grocery Near Me - Berkeley, California

Middle East Market - Baarg with half rice and half Shiraz salad - Grocery Near Me - Berkeley, California

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Middle East Market - Market sign next to cafe - Grocery Near Me - Berkeley, California

Middle East Market Popular Dishes

20 Photos38 Reviews

20 days ago

This is a fabulous local market with the best dolma, Turkish delight, baklava and so much more. I go here all the time. It's excellent!!

3 months ago

The Turkish Delight selection is actually quite delightful! And I love the tea they serve when you buy from their deli. Everything is delicious.

9 Photos29 Reviews

6 months ago

delicious food (i'm partial to the stews gheymeh, ghormeh sabzi and fesenjan, and the occasional koobideh), friendly staff and service, and now has a restaurant next door to the grocery store with a bar stocked with drink but more...

over 1 year ago

My friend had the same thing and also added the ghormeh sabzi. She really enjoyed the food here. The second visit was by myself because I was craving baklava. Their baklava is one the BEST I have ever tried. It was so delicious and...

11 Photos10 Reviews

10 months ago

I ordered the koobideh kabob 10/10, hummus 10/10, and the shirazi salad 10/10. The service was quick and the ambiance was welcoming. The people who work there are lovely as well.

about 2 years ago

I tried a variety of their signature dishes: Ghormeh Sabzi (herb stew with beef), Chicken Thigh & Koobideh kabobs, Turkish delights, and Halva. It all popped, but the standouts were the Ghormeh Sabzi, Koobideh kabob, and Halva. The...

have been my favorite dish of all, as a dessert, but also it packs just the right amount of sweetness with the decadence of fudge, yet still somehow light and airy. I would return for the Halva alone! I felt that everything was reasonably priced and well-portioned. The kabobs, served with a heaping portion of basmati rice and grilled veggies, were a steal at $24. The Sabzi (à la carte) was $13, and a great add-on (you can also get it with rice as a full meal). The Turkish delights are sold by the pound ($16/lb). I tried an assortment of these (they have an incredible variety!), and each one was once again packed with flavor, not too sweet, the perfect companion to an afternoon coffee or tea. They were extremely fresh and clearly homemade. I did have a few nits: the chicken kabobs were a bit under-seasoned, despite being perfectly juicy and succulent (they have really dialed in their grill process), and the beef in the Sabzi was a tad dry. But both of these issues are in the noise, with what otherwise a delicious dining experience. The team here takes great pride in their food, and it shows in the end result. Don't sleep on this neighborhood gem!

Middle East Market menu photos

Menu photo 1 Middle East Market Berkeley, CA

Menu photo 2 Middle East Market Berkeley, CA

Menu photo 3 Middle East Market Berkeley, CA

Menu photo 4 Middle East Market Berkeley, CA

Menu photo 5 Middle East Market Berkeley, CA

Menu photo 6 Middle East Market Berkeley, CA

Menu photo 7 Middle East Market Berkeley, CA

Menu photo 8 Middle East Market Berkeley, CA

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MIDDLE EAST MARKET ATMOSPHERE

What's the vibe?

Inside

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Outside

14 Photos

Moderate noise

Casual

Good for groups

Good for kids

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Dianna H.

I stepped in to grab food before realizing there was a separate cafe next door. Decided to come back after dinner next door to pick up some dessert and I'm so glad I did! I got an assortment of Turkish delight and some pistachio baklava ($2.99). The Turkish delight is sold by weight across all the varieties and goes for $16.99/lb. The guy behind the counter was super friendly and offered us a sample of one of the flavors to try which I thought was a nice gesture. Everything looked so good, so we picked a couple different pieces of Turkish delight to try. To my surprise, my favorite ended up being the saffron, though rose petal with pomegranate and sour cherry with pastachio were close seconds. I didn't like the coconut or the chocolate one that much, so reminder to myself to skip those next time. After picking up the dessert, I did a quick circle around the store to see what they had. It's not a big store but they manage to cram a lot of stuff into the limited space!

Tram V.

Stumbled across this place while walking around. They have a formal restaurant and a grocery/dessert next door. The grocery store was small but was packed with various treats and snacks. They had a whole selection of homemade desserts on display. I was a bit overwhelmed and didn't know what to get and the guy behind the counter suggested the rose dessert. I also got a baklava and pistachio halva. The rose dessert was a bit too sweet for my liking but I liked the "rose" flavor. The baklava was my favorite. It was crunchy, sweet but not overbearingly sweet, and enough pistachio to balance it out. The pistachio halva was something I haven't tried before. When I first saw it, I thought the texture would be a creamy dessert but the actual texture was more claylike. It was good but due to the claylike texture, it did dry my mouth while eating it. Overall, a wonderful place to try various desserts that are bite sized. I want to call out that the guy behind the counter was really sweet and kept track of the order of people in line. I was second in line but was waiting by the dessert display area instead of the cash register. A couple cut me without knowing and placed their items on the cash register and expected him to ring them up. He stopped, apologized, and let the them know that I was second in line and he'll ring them up after he takes my order. I'm glad that he did that. If not, I would have been annoyed and left. So big thanks for being so professional!

Stella Y.

Well stocked market with unique products you won't find in local Safeway. Browsing the store is a great experience on its own. We picked up a few desserts and a couple of salads. Everything was super fresh and yummy. There is a cafe next door where we ordered kebabs to go. Beautifully cooked. Staff is very friendly. A young gentleman at the counter offered us tea and a coloring page for my daughter while we were waiting for our to go order. Very nice touch! We will be back!

Michelle C.

I usually stop by either the Middle East Market or its sister spot, the Middle East Café, during my weekly laundromat run down the block. The café bartenders are always kind -- once they even let me use the bathroom before I realized the laundromat had one. I've ordered a beer while waiting for my clothes to dry and was welcomed to sit with my dog on the back patio. The atmosphere is warm and accommodating. The market itself is a treasure trove: shelves filled with Middle Eastern dry goods, nuts, dried fruits, spices, blends, and condiments you can't find anywhere else. Kofta, shish kebab, falafel, sumac, garam masala -- it's all here. They also carry pita, lavash, labna, and other breads and yogurts that make cooking from scratch feel like heaven. Bonus points for the large assortments of delicious house made baklavas! Even without a full kitchen, the prepared foods are excellent. I ordered falafel, eggplant dip, hummus, and cucumber salad from the to‑go counter -- a mini feast for $26 that didn't disappoint. **Verdict:** Courteous service, respectful staff, and a fantastic selection. Whether you're cooking at home or grabbing a bite, this place is a gem. Highly recommended.

Melody R.

Such a gem of a spot! Absolutely incredible and delicious foods. We usually order to go but this time we dined in and the outside seating is so cute and clean! The staff is kind and welcoming. They make you feel like family, very friendly and attentive. The koobideh wrap is my family's personal fave but I also love the soltani plate. Def go support, you won't regret it! The bakery is good and delicious too (love the tea!!) , their products feel like I'm going back to Iran for a moment, super nostalgic ‌‌. The meat is halal so that's a plus for those who follow. :)

Turkish delights and hummus from some of the ingredients bought there.

Marcy S.

This place is a vibe. The energy is vibrating of openness and positivity. I ordered the chicken wrap. They offered tea while I waited. I bought some Turkish delights which were beautiful and delicious. Got home and made fresh hummus to have along with the wrap. My partner and I were pleasantly surprised as this was the first time....but wow, sooo good. I have seen this market for years and - better late than never.... Fresh, quality ingredients. The wrap was friken amazing. I can't wait to come back to try more of the menu. The owner and staff were so welcoming. 10 stars for real

Sanilie F.

I have been here twice. The first visit was with my friend for her birthday. She loves Middle Eastern food just as much as I do and really wanted to stop by here. I ordered the chicken thigh skewers and koobideh plate. It came with basmati rice. The chicken had a weird almost sour taste... Maybe it was the seasoning used... The koobideh wasn't bad. I really enjoyed the rice. My friend had the same thing and also added the ghormeh sabzi. She really enjoyed the food here. The second visit was by myself because I was craving baklava. Their baklava is one the BEST I have ever tried. It was so delicious and hard to resist. I shared it with another friend and she really enjoyed it as well. She asked to come back here for more. The 4 stars is mainly for the baklava.

Shivani B.

DELICIOUS food and very kind staff 5* This place is an absolute MUST VISIT if you like flavourful and memorable food. The quality of the food is beyond amazing and the staff is very friendly and kind always! At this point I get food from here way too often and it's always awesome! I have tried the Chicken thigh kebabs 15/10 ( yes that good!) which are delicious every time, perfectly seasoned and always make you think 'when can I get this again?' I also get the Koobideh 12/10 which are fantastic, well cooked and has great flavour. You will eat extra trust me! The side of saffron rice 10/10 and the Mast Masoor yogurt sauce 10/10 completes the perfect meal. The great part is that every time you get it the quality, flavour and cook is consistent which is very rare. It is also very good value for money and you can order either individual dishes like kebab skewers or get the combo plates that come with rice. Another important part of the experience is the interaction with the staff and it is a joy to meet everyone here, specially Mustafa. Everyone working here is so kind, friendly and really make you feel welcome and happy to eat there. They have dine-in and to go options, a small grocery store where you can buy a few things and a sweets counter serving fresh traditional desserts like baklava. Note : Their double pistachio baklava is unbelievable! Hence, if you are in the area please visit this restaurant. They have a parking spot for shoppers in the back ( behind the next door laundromat) As I write this review I am thinking of my next order! Please try it!!

Nick C.

I had the best Koobideh Wrap I ever had from Middle East Market's cafe section. This market has many Persian grocery + pantry items as well as a side cafe with meals, drinks, and desserts. All of our groups' wraps were made fresh to order, and the koobideh in mine was so juicy and flavorful when it came out. The vegetables were all so good too and in the correct ratios with everything else in the wrap. Plus, the wraps here are very big, and are a great bang for your buck. There are a number of small tables/chairs near the entrance of the market where you can eat or sip your tea. Street parking is ample and very doable. Last but not least, the staff here were also very kind and helped make this such a great meal all-around. Definitely check out Middle East Market if you are around!

2 dolmas with rose falooda drink the bottle

Jennifer U.

Found this place via Yelp because I was drawn fk the fact that besides food, they're also a market that sells Turkish delights and baklava among their other groceries. 1st of all, their service was excellent. The young gentleman who helped us explained the food, offered us some hot tea and dates, and said that we could sample any of their stews and dips before buying. We had the Koobideh plate and Delmas. We also bought some Turkish delights (I totally forgot to get some baklava so that'll be a next trip). The koobideh came with packs of seasoning powder, which I can't remember the name, to help enhance the flavor. I kind of wish the plate had some veggies on it. I also got a small container of their eggplant dip and hummus; the hummus was excellent and I found that thr eggplant dip was best tasted when warmed, but that's maybe just my preference.

The variety of Turkish delights are delightful.

Jacqueline F.

I was at a party some years ago and a British friend brought a box of these. Having grown up reading about them in a children's book, I was intrigued. They didn't disappoint. So the hubs and I made a trek down here. It's a nice looking store with lots of middle eastern goods. And we got a huge box and ate them over the next week or so. I brought some to a family Xmas party and my sister who thought they were a mistake couldn't stay away from them. They were that good. They have other food stuffs but they didn't look so appealing to me, so I haven't eaten their hot food. This is our go59 spot for an ingredient we use for some recipes, un named because we don't want the competition. And the people who work there are very, very nice. And the service is good. So when at La Marcha next door or sometimes - just because, we stop by for some delectable treats.

Selina L.

Updated Review: The first time I came here, I only ordered an assortment of baklavas to-go and unfortunately only liked one of the baklava I tried. I am so glad I came back to try their restaurant food, it completely changed my view of the place. Per their owner Amir's recommendation, I also tried 2 more styles of baklavas and loved them both this time! I was just bad at picking them last time and the other variety didn't fit my baklava preference. Turns out I like the Persian baklava and the Syrian baklava the most, they are more dry and have the perfect amount of honey for my taste. I like that there are so many food options on the menu. My husband and I ordered the koobideh plate which came with rice, and a lamb shank. The koobideh is super tender. Lamb shank was falling off the bone and good flavor. Amir recommended some sides for us. I really liked the eggplant dish, I will need to learn what it is called. My husband loved the fresh yogurt. They serve complimentary tea at the restaurant, and today it was rose cardamom flavor, super fragrant and refreshing. I like that the tea is freshly brewed, it feels so comforting and welcoming, like I am visiting at a friend's house. We really enjoyed everything and cannot wait to bring our kids here next time and try more dishes! Original Review: This review is solely on their baklavas. I came here for dessert and so cannot rate anything else they offer. The place is very clean and welcoming. The selection of baklavah really is massive. As a huge fan of baklavah, my family bought a selection of them to try. Each family member picked out their own. The baklavah here is over-soaked full of honey and super sticky in texture. The one we liked the most was the one they called Syrian style, it's the puffy triangle one that looks like pistachio is over-stuffed. The reason we liked the Syrian style the best was that it was the most crunchy and flakey since it had the least amount of honey. This might just be personal preference but I am not a fan of the baklavah texture here because they are too sweet and too soggy for me. I do see other people's reviews on their food and market, I will have to try other items next time.

Nazhat S.

Came here for lunch and it was wonderful! Service was friendly and quick. The owner (I think) was super helpful. It's a cute market with a restaurant counter. My mom and I shared the koobideh and chicken breast kebab plates as well as a bowl of the aush. The dogh was a refreshing accompaniment. Everything was delicious and prices were very fair. There was a wide variety of groceries and goods available as well. If I were local, I would definitely come here regularly to shop or grab a meal. We ended up with some of the Turkish delights and tea--so delicious!

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David C.

Elite 26

392

1558

2714

10 years ago

Great place before EVRn better now. New management. Owned and operated by a dad and son Good fresh warm authentic middle eastern meals, great service and tea and there is a little grocery store with great herbs spices and products GREAT prices read more

Middle East Market - Amazing foos - Grocery Near Me - Berkeley, California

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Penelope D.

6 years ago

Every time we have a family gathering, we order from these guys. The food is always great and very fresh... Not to mention they prep very quickly. I've had an order ready for a big dinner party in about an hour before. I also think they are a family owned business so definitely glad to support our locals. If you glance at my review, remember the importance of leaving feedback for these regular folk. Target and Best Buy don't need your reviews. SUPPORT SMALL! read more

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nancy f.

4 years ago

I love this place. I love their food. Nice quality ingredients. Well prepared. . There is an array of types of baklava. Don't expect fancy fancy. It's a lunch counter in a grocery store. Plus you can get ingredients to make your own food at home. read more

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Lawrence P.

Elite 19

313

8 years ago

Friendly staff, easy phone ordering, & fast take out. I called for a Koobideh platter and it was ready within 10 minutes. When the Middle Eastern craving strikes, this place is much easier to grab a meal during your lunch break opposed to Wally's. Although both places require street parking, it's much more easier to locate an available spot. Also the biggest factor is that they take debit/cc payment. Unlike Wally's, you don't have to have cash or withdraw from those generic ATM's that tax the crap out of you. The Koobideh was good. Not dry at all, with a perfect kick of that onion taste. The grilled tomato included was also really sweet and the grilled onion tasted fresh. I've tried their $2.00 square Baklava's on two occasions and both times I've thought to myself that it needed more honey. They put a lot of layers of phyllo, which requires more honey. I need my Baklava's to be ooey gooey. I've tried 2/4 of the Baklava's they offer and I'll be back for the last 2 and give an update on that. read more

Middle East Market - Grocery Near Me - Berkeley, California

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Abe R.

2 years ago

I had a lunch with my kid on Friday, the guy behind the register was amazing, great attitude and super service however, the chicken came uncooked, again the cashier took it back to finish cooking it. How do you hire a cheff that does not know when the meet is or is not cooked? read more

Business owner information

Amir R.

Hey Abe!…

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John C.

943

259

1428

6 years ago

We picked up some of the most delicious Ghormeh Sabzi and fesenjan tonight. We ordered using the website and it works great. read more

Middle East Market - We like Persian food. - Grocery Near Me - Berkeley, California

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Farhang P.

2 years ago

I stopped by Middle East Market to taste the food based on two friends' recommendations on a weekend. I wanted to introduce 40 of my colleagues to Persian cuisine on Nowruz, and choosing a place to provide fresh meals was the most important factor for me. The owner (Amir) happened to be there; he provided me with several options and suggestions without pushing me to decide how much or what to order. I am very glad that I went with his suggestions; my colleagues have truly have enjoyed the yummy food. The staff is punctual and courteous. The day of the pick-up, I went to the store at 11AM, when this place was fairly busy with their regular daily pick up orders. My food was ready in a big mobile warmer, which two employees carried to my car. I would definitely give this place 5 stars based on the service and food quality. read more

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B D.

118

256

6 years ago

I had an overcooked chicken kabob last time and Amir (Owner) reached out to me and offered my family and I to come back with a meal on him. It was Amazing! Thank you, Amir! read more

Middle East Market - Burn kabob....The picture doesn't even do it justice! - Grocery Near Me - Berkeley, California

Middle East Market - Perfection! - Grocery Near Me - Berkeley, California

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Business owner information

Amir R.

Hey B D! This Amir the owner of Middle East Market. I’m so sorry to…

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Jhon F.

398

6 years ago

As someone who grew up in San Diego with easy access to family run Persian/Iranian grocery stores with restaurants inside, I had for a long time searched for a similar experience in the Bay Area. Finally, after a few years of living here, I found that experience in Middle East Market. I initially came here for specialty Persian/Iranian items like skewers for making kabobs at home, safron rose cardamom ice cream, and carbonated yogurt drinks (doogh). Subsequent visits have given me the opportunity to try a good number of the options through the restaurant, including eating a few meals in, and ordering catering for takeaway. Food - Everything is DELICIOUS! Fresh, flavorful, and on point. The Koobideh skewers are my favorite, and they're a great deal too! The various stews, like Ghormeh Sabzi and Gheymeh, are very well done and took me back to my moms cooking. People - Everyone I've interacted with who works there is super attentive, kind, and helpful. English and Farsi are equally available as a means of communication. Truly kind folks! Ambiance - The setting is small, cozy, casual, and relaxed. A couple of the times that I've been in there has been live music, from a band playing traditional instruments. Quite an experience! If you haven't tried their food yet, definitely check them out and browse the grocery section while you wait for neat unique finds! read more

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Sincere Justice A.

321

9 years ago

The Prince Amir always takes care of me - great service and execution of food. Have traveled to Tehrangeles, I know a bit about the Persian cuisine. I always get that Gourmeh Sabzi - it helps turn any shitty situation into Lit-uation....namean?!?! Here's a pro tip for you shawty, get that persian rice crispy - Tahhhhhdeeeeg, ya dig! Also, if you need that Pomegranate Molasses or Lebne in ya life, just holla and the Prince will provide straight up. read more

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Susie S.

244

100

6 years ago

Most polite group of young people working here that I have ever met. Rafael is so friendly, polished, calm, and polite and young male with dark hair and beautiful eyebrows very intent on servicing customers. Warm and friendly attitude from all of them. Rarely seen. read more

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May P.

5 years ago

I've been going here for 3 years now and they've never disappointed. Their chicken kabobs are made out of heaven. Their koobideh is great. I love how much rice they put with saffron butter on top. Don't get me started on their tahdig. Gotta get the tahdig. It's so delicious. I wish I could just order a plate full of their tahdig. The turkish baklava is my favorite out of their huge selection of Turkish delights. I do miss being able to sit and eat in the store itself though. But I understand with COVID. The workers are almost always friendly. This place is just great all around. read more

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judi H.

193

7 years ago

This place is my new favorite restaurant!!! A friend of mine who was visiting from Los Angeles saw this place on the tv show "Check Please" and insisted that we go. I had passed by this place a million times, but never came in because I thought it only a grocery store versus a restaurant. While the restaurant part is not fancy and the tables are close together, everything else about it is FABULOUS. The owner and staff are hospitable and gracious and make you feel like an invited guest in their home. I had never had Persian food before and they patiently answered all my questions and made suggestions on what to order. Must haves are the "burnt rice" (can't remember the Persian name) the pomegranate stew (sounds weird but is delicious) the lamb/beef kabobs which are served with the fluffiest is rice I ever had. Save room for dessert and try a variety of the Turkish candies. read more

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Mahsa M.

Elite 15

192

319

346

7 years ago

I never thought to write a review but I didn't mean to take them for granted. Wow been coming here for a couple years now since I moved to Berkeley but never saw them as busy as today. Congrats to them for their feature on the local foodie show, hope the shout out brings you much success & stay around forever! I love getting my local Persian bread here & all the spices I used to get from my mom but now can't because she's in Atlanta. Have dined in with my parents when they're in town & we all love it. My favorite part is the cozy slice of home I feel every time I walk in; whether it's to grab a few things or whatever, I love the classic regulars just hanging out, sipping their tea, and speaking in Farsi. Really helps with those homesick days and duh, they have great stuff! Clip of their feature on "Check Please" starting at 17.5 minutes in: https://youtu.be/HpeGlv88WgA read more

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Joe T.

3 years ago

The food was OK and service was great . This place has variety of middle eastern grocery and hot plate food and kebabs. Definitely recommend this place. read more

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Cy G.

3 years ago

Supper! I am so happy to find this place. Grate customer service and gourmet food! Highly recommend it

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Gin C.

439

1242

4 years ago

We stopped by to get a few things near by so we decided to stop in to look around as well. The Turkish delight is probably not the freshest you can get, but it is decent for what you can get in the Bay area. The shop also has meals you can buy, and some frozen heat up meals as well. read more

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Hamid N.

406

7 years ago

The food here is amazing and the prices are fireee. I got the kabob kobideh and it was juicy and the rice was perfect. Its hard to find Persian food for good prices anywhere. Thank you for making it accessible to everybody to enjoy amazing food. More businesses need to learn from this establishment and stop jacking up their prices. Thank you. Food was delicious! read more

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Linda L.

503

7 years ago

They're really great and I would highly recommend! I called in an order for catering yesterday and was able to pick it up the next day. I did have to check with them on the order though as the man over the phone missed some of the items. I got to meet Amir, one of the owners, and he was really nice and cute. I came in early to pick up my order and he offered me a tea while I waited. The food was delicious and fresh. Our workshop attendees were really happy with all the options. One person even said that they felt "really cared for". Overall, I will definitely get catering from them again. As a side note though, who here knows how old Amir is and whether or not he's married? read more

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Christopher A.

106

7 years ago

Absolutely love the Middle East Market for a quick Persian meal. The fesenjan (pomegranate and walnut stew) and kashke bademjan (eggplant dip) is to die for. My Persian landlord said there was only one place to get Persian food in Berkeley and this is it. My fiance and I don't even talk to each other when we eat, we just rave about how damn good everything is. The market portion also has a great selection of Persian food and the best Bulgarian feta around. read more

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Giuseppe B.

5 years ago

It's my favorite persian place in the Bay Area. It's low key, with cool people working there. The koobideh plate is a must try, with mast o musir (yogurt kind of), and tadigh. Their Baklava is very good too. read more

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Geetha K.

Elite 17

111

259

522

10 years ago

Came here for a quick lunch and looked like they only have falafel wrap for vegetarians. We were asked to take a table and wait for food. As the food arrived and the presentation was decent I couldn't wait to get my hands on it. The wrap was terrible I've eaten ever for falafel. Being a huge fan of Mediterranean wraps in Palo Alto I have my expectations quite high. This failed and not even worth for comparison so stay away from falafel wrap at any cost. When we went to pay for the order the cashier/seemed like owner as well asked if we like our food. Honestly he is the only reason why I'm even rating this place. He was super sweet to us and asked us why we chose falafel wrap. We mentioned that that seemed the obvious choice as we're vegetarian. He recommended that we try saffron rice/basmati rice with pomegranate and walnut sauce. Had this been noticed/mentioned to us before we'd have certainly ordered this as it's sounds appetizing to say the least. Well I can grumble but you get the point. Many people walked in a bought their. Read if only they had used nice afghan bread for pita it'd have tasted decent. Powdery bread and bad falafel will keep me away from this place. read more

Middle East Market - Falafel wrap - Grocery Near Me - Berkeley, California

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Naima M.

151

4 years ago

Good place everyone is very friendly I find what I need love the food I order kabbab, shawarma plates. Hummus, babaganouge. My order is always ready when I call ahead abs they're falafel is very tasty even after I put it in the freezer and then I put it in toaster oven cones out. Run by abs not greasy. read more

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Raman S.

Elite 24

461

7 years ago

Great place for a good Persian food and also to stock up on middle eastern groceries. We loved their beef and lamb kebab dish and also the many stew dishes they serve. They are all great. The rice they serve with these dishes is amazing. They also serve the rice with the bottom crust. They have a good selection of Persian desserts. The baklava and other desserts are not very sweet unlike other middle eastern places. The staff are very friendly and helpful. Great place to experience this unique cuisine. read more

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Mauna T.

5 years ago

Out of all the kabob koobidehs I've had in the Bay Area, the Middle East market's by far is my absolute favorite. Super sweet & knowledgable staff with a super friendly owner! The market is always stocked with the best Persian produce/snacks and the food is amazing! read more

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Kaison T.

Elite 18

127

5 years ago

Turkish-centric middle eastern food for a good price. Go earlier in the day before they run out!

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Nahal I.

9 years ago

This is my first time at this great store I was very impressed with many things first of all the owners were extremely hospitable, the ambiance was very pleasant. The gentlemen behind the register amir and navid were very nice and friendly. The owner , amirs father was very nice and i felt right at home at their market. The only negative thing was that they dont have a store in San Jose . I recommend everyone who wants good persian food and products to go there they wont be disappointed. PS. My koobide was great and so was my friends soltani Thanks u guys for ur kindness and great food and service read more

Middle East Market - Koobide and soltani - Grocery Near Me - Berkeley, California

Middle East Market - Great Persian food - Grocery Near Me - Berkeley, California

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shima s.

7 years ago

Amazing Persian food! There beef kabob is one of the best in the Bay Area. I had been here several times to get a quick and delicious Persian kabob and always left satisfied. Recently I was looking for catering for an event with approximately 90 people and decided to give Middle East Market a try. They did not disappoint! The food and the service was great. The delivery was on time and they made extra effort to make sure all our needs were met. If you are looking for catering I would definitely recommend Middle East Market! read more

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Just S.

104

6 years ago

I love this place. It has surprisingly good Persian food, and the staff seem conscious of covid protocol, which cant be easy to enforce given their location. Order the plate, its worth a few extra bucks instead of the sandwiches. I get the persian stews or the kebab with rice. The roasted tomato is soooo good when you mash it open rice and the juice runs into the rice. They also have a good selection of drygoods and some specialties like Mashti Malones ice cream and faloodeh. If youre looking for good flatbread they also have that, in a few different styles. Definitely recommend , read more

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Naomi S.

Elite 26

565

414

281

7 years ago

Favorite middle eastern restaurant in Berkeley. Portions are huge and prices are reasonable. My Persian friend introduced us to all of her favorite dishes, so you know it's authentic. The koobideh is awesome, especially when served with the rice from the bottom of the pan. I love the cucumber salad. The hummus and falafel are okay; I'd opt for more koobideh or chicken instead! read more

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Kasra V.

6 years ago

Great food, fabulous kabobs and amazing fresh bread. Love this place

Business owner information

Amir R.

Hey Kasra ! I’m so sorry to hear you didn’t like the food. And that…

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Gabriel D.

8 years ago

I love this place and you should drop by just to check out what a middle eastern (Persian) market / restaurant operated by friendly, accommodating and family oriented people looks like. Then, when you are moved by the warmth and kindness of the staff you should try some of their delicious food on offer. I'm not even going to recommend one thing because unless you are Persian you probably haven't had anything they have and everything they have is great, all the way to the most simple item like the chive yogurt, heck even the tea they hand out for free is excellent. Then, once you have enjoyed something in the store, guess what, you are in luck, this is a grocery store too so you can start buying a bunch of the things that your mouth has now realized it can't live without. From spices to rice to cookies and ice creams there's so much here and the prices are great. Please stop by and check out this market if you are around Berkeley, support a local family run business while also enjoying and stocking up on flavors from the place that started it all off, Persia. read more

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Taraneh N.

6 years ago

Everything I need for Persian food! i wish they had a larger selection of torshi but I believe they were out. regardless , this is the only place so far I've found in Oakland and Berkeley with a comprehensive selection of all things for Iranian food. read more

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Natasha S.

Elite 23

383

1690

948

10 years ago

I used to come here for years when I lived in the area, moved away and just happen to be nearby when visiting. So naturally I'm going to stop by. I dragged my friend who hadn't had Persian food really, and ended up picking up food to go. Unless you live right around the corner I suggest eating in and not doing carry out. The meat gets overcooked and is really best right off the grill along with their oven baked naan. I went crazy. I ordered two different kabobs (kubideh and filet), naan, fesenjoon (pomegranate walnut stew with chicken), tahdig and kashke badejamn (eggplant dip). Everything was pretty good but like I said the meat gets overcooked. And they forgot the sabzi which I reminded them of twice - bummer, their rice is on point though. This is a family business and so it has that family feel. Right when you walk in, you are welcomed and treated like a family member. The time I came was a father and son duo, and they were super nice, hilarious and accommodating. They let us sample everything and even shared ice cream with us. Really great customer service. Prices are standard for Persian food. Their market carries a lot of fantastic middle eastern items, great variety of ice cream (even vegan Persian ice cream!) and lots of hard to find herbs and seasonings. Love this place. read more

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Bobbi L.

Elite 23

596

5 years ago

I'm only 1/4 Turkish and Mexican at heart but I love coming here for their tea selection, olive oil from Palestine and feta. Also they have these handcrafted halvahs which are amazing! read more

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Nlza G.

5 years ago

The only bummer here is that I've lived in Berkeley for so long and am just now discovering this gem! Everything we ordered was delicious, but I especially recommend the chicken thigh kabob (a lot more flavorful than the breast) and the zereshk polo-rice with barberries. The barberries add a sweetness with a bright tang, so good. read more

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Cheryl M.

Elite 26 All-Star

205

1745

8687

14 years ago

This place is TERRIBLE! Walked in and was immediately ignored by the worker at the register...Nevertheless, smelled the wonderful aromas of the kitchen in the back ....2 men were sitting and chatting...i believe one was a worker who did not even stop his conversation to say hello...nothing...my friend and I were obviously new to the store so you'd think we'd be welcomed. After 5 minutes of standing at the food counter and hoping someone would ask "may i help you..take your order...something....i walk over to a worker and ask "is the kitchen open?" (this was 4:00p.m.) he acknowledges yes and walks away. And proceeds to help a woman who spoke the language. So after 10 minutes in the store, we walk out dumfounded and felt like 'um what just happened?" Needless to say...will NOT be returning...i see other Yelpers had the SAME experience...i wish i had known beforehand. Went to Indus Village Restaurant and Indus grovery instead...friendly, helpful and welcoming to EVERYONE read more

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Jorge R. H.

11 years ago

I have been twice now and have only great things to say. Please ignore the older comments as the place is under new owners, the Razavi family have changed it for the better. I am not in Berkeley often but will be sure to make this a stop every time. I had the lamb shank, rice with yogurt for lunch and it was amazing. The chef Nadir is incredible and everything I had a taste of rocked my world! Madeline, Hossein and Amir are the wonderful new owners who make you feel at home the second you walk in. There is a cafe in front with a market behind it that carries a large variety of middle eastern items. Well stocked and nicely displayed. If you have any questions, don't be afraid to ask and all are willing to help. They have only owned it two months now and I can only see it getting even better as time goes on! Go and enjoy. Peace read more

Middle East Market - The new owners of Middle East Market Amir, Madeline and Hossein. - Grocery Near Me - Berkeley, California

Middle East Market - Another shot of the new owners with the menu above. - Grocery Near Me - Berkeley, California

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Rino K.

3 years ago

Great place, great atmosphere and very friendly staff. Need to try now....try the sweet and savory items.

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Ali N.

Elite 26

232

102

10 years ago

The new owners are awesome !!!!!!!!!! I had stopped going to this place since the previous owners were simply the biggest Richards I've ever seen ! But the new owners have made this place the best again ! I was at an event that they catered the food and the. Young gentleman Amir was in charge beside the food that was the best Persian food I had for a very very long time Amir was just great so sweet so nice and very professional he treated the guest like his own family everybody loved the way he handled the food and service with a very huge smile and amazing attitude Thank you guys for doing such a great job , you are the best! read more

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Page 4 of 12

2054 San Pablo Ave
Berkeley, CA 94702
West Berkeley
Directions
(510) 704-8800
Call Now
Order Takeout
Start Order
Visit Website
http://www.middleeastmarket.com

Full menu

Hours

What time does Middle East Market open?

Middle East Market opens at 10:00 AM on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday.

What time does Middle East Market close?

Middle East Market closes at 8:00 PM on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday.

Mon-Sun 10:00 AM - 8:00 PM

Payment methods

Does Middle East Market take credit cards?

Yes, Middle East Market takes credit cards.

Food & Alcohol

Does Middle East Market serve alcohol?

No, Middle East Market does not serve alcohol.

Indoor Amenities

Does Middle East Market have TVs?

Yes, Middle East Market has TVs.

Outdoor Amenities

Does Middle East Market have bike parking?

Yes, Middle East Market has bike parking.

Does Middle East Market have outdoor seating?

Yes, Middle East Market has outdoor seating options.

Does Middle East Market have parking?

Yes, Middle East Market has parking options. Private Lot Parking, Street Parking

Other Amenities

Does Middle East Market have free WiFi?

Yes, Middle East Market has free WiFi.

From the Business

Specialties

Persian food, Mediterranean. Local and Imported Middle Eastern and European goods

History

Established in 1974.

Started as the first Middle East market in the Bay Area and northern CA. Has been the same name since, a community tradition that has blossomed into a Restaraunt, deli, and market. We’re proud to keep the tradition and the community alive and well.

Meet the Business Owner: Amir R.

A father son partnership. My fathers dream that I am living with him everyday

Middle East Market Reviews in Other Languages

Japanese
1 Review

Ask the Community - Middle East Market

Do they cater events?

Yes ! We do all occasions and offers drop off catering, or in person full service with chafing dishes. The contact for you and anyone else is 5107063882. Please text for any immediate questions and responses, we will follow up with a call and go…

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Do they sell sangak Persian flatbread?

Yes! Multigrain and regular plain sangak

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Open for dine in?

No answers yet. Be the first to answer.

Is the food halal?

Yes all the food is halal

View question details

Do they serve alcohol?

no they don't serve alcohol. You can get alcohol from the Mexican grocery store next door but you cannot drink it inside their premise.

View 2 more answers

Do you also serve fresh hummus and pita bread on the side?

We sell and serve hummus in our deli section and Lavash bread is complimentary. However, We sell pita bread in our market separately. You can order hummus in the deli and can request the complimentary Lavash bread or choose from pita and/or any…

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Alborz

3.6(117 reviews)

1.4 mi•Downtown Berkeley

Let's start with Food we drive all the way from Pleasanton to come to this restaurant. It's nice…read moreit's cozy. It's not super fancy but the food is just outstanding a 10 out of 10 and I know my Persian food. Service is really good Ambience is good too Like in Real Estate restaurants are food. Food and food are the most important things. Tasty authentic not overpriced. Just great quality my family and I love coming here if you haven't tasted it and try it try it.

Dinner with a side of rude attitude. No thanks!…read more If it were not for the food, and I could give 0 stars, I would. Not sure if they were having a bad day, and we came on the wrong night, but that should not be any excuse. I use to frequent their old location, and have yet to go back since they moved. First attempt at the new location, I tried to come with 2 girl friends for an early lunch on a Monday at 11am. Their hours say they open at 10:30am, but it was 11:20am, and their doors were locked and the people inside said they were closed. Second attempt was on a Sunday evening at 6pm. We were 2 families totaling 8 people. We told the hostess/server our party size, and almost immediately, she did not seem too happy about it. That is when the attitude began. We looked around, and noticed that there were about 2 or 3 other tables of 2-3 people dining, so it was not like they were busy. We were really taken back by her reaction and tone, which made us worry about the service the rest of the night. We got seated, looked at the menu, and let her know we were ready to order. We were curious and had a few quick questions, such as which is popular and which type of meat comes in the plate (because it did not specify), but her responses were very rude. She even tried to give an attitude saying we could not change what comes on the plate, when in fact we were just adding to the order. She was just so quick to try to find a problem to speak on that she did not realize it was an addition. I started to get upset. I truly tried to keep my calm, but it was really hard with the way she was speaking. Food took pretty long to come out even though they were not busy. Good thing we were not in a rush. We noticed that the people next to us ordered before us, but our food came out first, so we felt bad. Then when their food did come out, I believe something was wrong, so they had to wait a little more. Although the food was decent, the service ruined the entire experience. For that reason, I would not go back.

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Persian Nights Restaurant

4.4(178 reviews)

4.4 mi

•$$

The chicken and rice are awesome. Chicken was juicy and so flavorful…read more Yogurt and chive appetizer was great. The waitress recommended it and it was way better than I was anticipating. Tachin was something completely different. So many different flavors and textures. Great change up. Wouldn't be my go to. But once in a while I could enjoy it.

We walked in and tried to get a table for 2. And the owner asked us if we had reservations. But…read morethere was plenty of seating inside and outside. Funny part is, no one walked in after us. We were then seated, the first girl asked if we wanted anything to drink which we did but we never got our drinks til another waitress came and asked us 20mins later. We told her we were ready to order and we had to wait another 10mins for another waiter to order. We got the chive/shallot yogurt, lollipop lamb chops, Koobideh and Joojeh Kabob. The kabeb dishes came with grilled tomato, grilled pepper, rice with tadig on top. They also make this pink butter to put on the rice. Food is good and everything was seasoned well and not over cooked. I want to give this place a try again but they need to work on their customer service. They catered more to other tables and we didn't even get offered the dessert menu like the other tables around us. Also, we had to ask for the check and no one even came to check if we were ready to pay we had to go up there.

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Outdoor seating

Dessert saffron rice pudding & rosewater

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Darband Mediterranean Restaurant

4.5(58 reviews)

1.5 mi•North Berkeley, Gourmet Ghetto

Darband's is located in a little cute eatery food court near the Berkeley campus. The owner is…read moresuper nice and always asks customers how they like the food, like "Was your meat seasoned enough or juicy enough?". The owner values customer opinions about his food which I think is awesome. I ordered a Beef koobideh plate which I thought was perfect. The meat was juicy and had a nice buttery flavor. It came with two roasted tomatoes, rice and some pita. The entrees are definitely reasonably priced as well especially being near the campus. Only drawback is this place doesn't stay open too late, closes at 7pm and misses much of the dinner traffic, but definitely a place worth trying.

Delicious! Excellent food, excellent service and cute location. We sat at a common garden in the…read moreback. The staff was really awesome and service was fast for a well cooked and prepared food. We had lamb chops and shawarma and ooooh they were so yummy!

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Beef koobideh with rice

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Saffron Kitchen

4.6(187 reviews)

2.6 mi•Rockridge, North Oakland

•$$

Love this place for dinner! The mantu dumplings are a wonderful appetizer and shish leek beef…read moredelicious. Usually I get lamb but I wanted to try something new and yes the shish leek is incredible. The cauliflower qurma and saffron lentil soup are also filling and delicious. Thank you for offering a kids menu so we are able to order a chicken kabob plate for kids. They were such fans of the food. I've been here three times now and each time I am impressed! There's something so cozy about the restaurant space, and always so lively, in the Rockridge neighborhood.

Saffron Kitchen has an extraordinary selection of kabobs including filet mignon, chicken breasts…read moreand salmon (in order of my top three favorite). The presentation ALMOST rivals the sensational savory seasoning that never fades with each new bite. All kabobs are offered with the option of basmati rice with a splash of vivid, yellow color on top. The roasted vegetables are a fresh-tasting variety that are sautéed to Al dente perfection (tender but still firm). Service staff are consistently friendly, seem to enjoy their work and are knowledgeable about menu options. The restaurant atmosphere is spacious with ample outdoor and indoor seating options. Street parking is easily accessible and with a lot of options within walking distance from the restaurant. Their baklava can't be passed up for dessert!

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The bar area

Kabobs and Side Butternut Squash

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Private Room

Zaytoon Mediterranean Restaurant & Bar

4.3(843 reviews)

1.6 mi

•$$

All the things I could say…read more.. We love this spot, and it has become our go to when visiting the area (though I do also LOVE Zachary's). Most recently, we dropped in before going to a show at the Ivy Room (another favorite). We got there early so we we could enjoy a leisurely meal. We were e seated in the bar, which worked well as we had great service and I personally like the higher bar tables. We tried the mezzo plate, kofta, a fantastic halumi salad, and the phyllo chicken pie. Everything we had was delicious! Cocktails and wine options were also outstanding. We finished with halva topped scoop of ice cream and delightful coffee! Great spot? Great food! Great service! We love this place!

A delicious array of Mediterranean appetizers and entrées. Zaytoon staff are friendly and…read moreattentive. The restaurant is efficient for both dining in as well as takeout. Energetic space, with excellent outdoor dining too. It can get loud inside the restaurant, so outdoor seating is better for conversations.

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Dining room

Mazza platter and eggplant salat

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Chicken shawarma plate

Lavash

4.2(1.8k reviews)

11.8 mi•Inner Sunset

•$$$

Everything we ordered was delicious. Especially loved the…read morekoobideh and Kashk-e Bademjan. I would go here again in a heart beat. The lamb tongue was ok too chewy not worth for the price. Ambiance is cute, we got seated in less than 10 min when we came around 7PM on a Friday.

Lavash (good food) was what lead me to be in a mood. Great way to support local communities…read morethrough their unique culinary creations, especially during women's history month. I'm sure there are other Persian cafés and restaurants as good as Lavash. I hardly stop to think about what made Lavash interesting. The floral aroma throughout the entire atmosphere, the gentleness of the waiters and hostesses who're well focused on serving others, and their signature paper thin Lavash bread. A clear teapot filled with saffron tea with rock candy on a stick; seen how they dip it in after pouring the tea. Interesting orange color indeed! A plate of zucchini, grape tomatoes, Moroccan mint leaves, and a pair of Bulgarian cheese; complimentary for my first visit here. Persian noodle soup, filled with beans, chickpeas, and lentils; loved the floral notes in every spoonful. Main course, veggie kabob on a bed of basmati rice drenched in saffron and spices, along with some onions and mushrooms, and of course, a large Lavash bread at the bottom to fill the whole plate. The best part is to completely sandwich wrap after I marginalized the contents on the plate. Ahhh! Satisfying to the last bite of herbs and spices. Not filling though, but I had no need for any dessert. Another highly recommended place to eat for locals and tourists alike. I let some of my friends know how much they'll love the best Persian dishes locals raved about. Thumbs up for the people of Lavash!

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Lavash Special: Shashlik (two lamb chops), Joojeh (one chicken kebab), Koobideh (one lamb+beef kebab), veggies, rice | $54

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Dessert menu: rose water noodle with ice cream

Maykadeh

3.9(1.1k reviews)

7.8 mi•North Beach/Telegraph Hill

•$$$

It was a great restaurant!!! Great food, great service!! And the owner was very nice!! The…read moreatmosphere was very nice!! Please go to this restaurant if you visit!!!

Tucked away in the north beach area is this little awesome spot. We were seated right away but…read moreservice was a bit slow. It was starting to pick up and get busy so I understand. Ordered dishes to share; Koobideh plate, salad, feta cheese spread. Koobideh was cooked great. Rice was good as well. Good salad. The feta cheese spread was a little overpowering, worth a try but I don't think I would order again.

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Homemade Baklava dessert

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Dining room

Komaaj

4.9(14 reviews)

11.1 mi•Bernal Heights, Mission

We had a fantastic experience with Komaaj Catering. We ordered a spread that included the Eggplant…read more& Tomato Dip, Herb & Cheese Frittata, Sumac Beef Meatballs, Turmeric Chicken Party Wings, Pomegranate Walnut Stew with Chickpeas, and Turmeric Rice--and every single dish was packed with flavor. You can really tell there's care and authenticity behind the cooking. The textures and seasoning were spot on across the board, from the rich, comforting stew to the perfectly spiced meatballs and vibrant dips. Everything felt thoughtfully prepared and beautifully balanced. On top of that, the service was exceptional. Farshad, the owner, went above and beyond by including a complimentary herb yogurt dip and even an extra order of rice, which was such a generous and appreciated touch. His wife Nazanin was also very helpful when we went to pick up food for sa Highly recommend Komaaj Catering if you're looking for delicious, well-crafted food and warm, thoughtful service. We'll definitely be ordering again!

Loved the dining experience here, specially that it was a treat by my son…read more The staff was super helpful and explained every dish in detail. The food was a nice twist of traditional Persian cuisine and we enjoyed every dish. The ambiance is also very warm and inviting which added to the experience. Will be back trying other dishes.

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Komaaj Pop-Up

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Marinated olives, Herb yogurt & dishes

Kamdesh Afghan Cuisine

4.1(989 reviews)

4.7 mi

•$$

Decided to come here before Henry j K show Warm, excellent…read moreservice!! Mouth-watering, well-seasoned, tender, juicy, truly enjoyable all 4 dishes we ordered!! The resto decor, together with several customers who walked in with their Afghan garb made us feel like we're in Afghanistan ourselves!! Wow! Love this place & hoping to come back here in the near future!!

I had a good experience ordering take out from Kamdesh Afghan Cruisine. I ordered from their…read morewebsite, and we picked it up half an hour later. The restaurant is extremely big with lots of seating. It was roomy, and I picked up my order near the back. They packaged my food fresh and I got it hot! We got the Quabili Pallow and Beef Kubideh. They were both delicious! I love the pallow, and the raisins and carrots were done well. The lamb shank was soft and paired well. I wish there was a bit of a sauce to it to make the perfect bite. The kubideh was also good, and the kebab was very light. Good contrast to the heavy lamb. I enjoyed our meal, and will order again!

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Chicken thigh kabob ($16.99)

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Simurgh Bakery and Cafe

4.6(292 reviews)

2.5 mi

•$$

Matcha Tales, Always looking to enjoy the food/drink…read moreexperience. We found a gem. Took a minute to prepare, but I am willing to sacrifice time for taste . Worked out great. All I heard was this is the best Matcha ever. Wow. Let's memorize this. Well deserved. See you

Pastry 4/5 Customer service 5/5…read moreValue 3/5 We came right before closing so the only thing we can get was pastries The honey cake is the best; moist and balanced in flavor. Everything is good and fresh. It is a little pricey @$7 per piece.

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Inside

Balkan Kebab Sandwich(Cevapi)

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Cute windows of display

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Bijan B.

7 years ago

when in Berkeley, be sure to visit the Middle East Market on San Pablo Ave and bring your appetite with you. One of the best selections of authentic and tasty Persian food at very low prices in the entire Northern California. the appetizers are also very good and so is the service. I have been going to this store with my family and the food is always fresh and plenty. Give them a try and you will become a regular like I did. They have a good selection of middle eastern groceries too. read more

Michael P.

1 year ago

Last evening, I had the pleasure of dining at a newly opened restaurant in the Middle East Market that specializes in Persian cuisine. It truly was one of the best experiences I've ever had, and everyone loved it, including my two granddaughters! We enjoyed our meal on the cozy back patio, surrounded by warmth and care. The food was delightful, and the kindness of the staff, who provided exceptional service, was outstanding. I would rate them ten out of five without a doubt! read more

Amro Z.

2 years ago

The Middle East Market is one of the best places in the Bay Area, and I like it a lot. One time, I had a concern regarding their website update. However, I was amazed at how they were very kind and quickly addressed my concerns. Amir acted and responded in a very professional way, making me love this place more than before. I recommend this restaurant for offering the best food, having great people, and dealing with considerate customer care. read more

Jared M.

444

9 years ago

Amir is one of the friendliest, most personable guys I have ever known. He and his family have an incredible gift for running a small business. They are exceptionally talented at providing the highest quality food, customer service, and cultural experience around for a Persian restaurant. Don't waste your time with any place else, get all your Persian necessities and cravings satisfied HERE! read more

Maddie K.

6 years ago

The absolute best Persian food and Middle Eastern grocery store in Nor Cal. I've been going here for years and the staff is so incredible/dedicated to providing the best service for the community. They have really good catering too. I recommend their Ghormeh Sabzi ~ it tastes like home read more

Martin S.

329

120

7 years ago

Very lovely family owned middle eastern grocery market AND a place to eat! Food is awesome and served fresh! They surely welcome you and make sure you feel at home. Delicious food. For your middle eastern food needs, come here! Staff is super friendly. read more

Armin N.

4 years ago

Great costumer service and hot delicious food, They're always on time with their orders and the estimated time for all the yummy food. Always fresh products and great choices in the shelves, from bakery down to the choice of teas. read more

J.P. M.

139

11 years ago

What a turn around! This place has excellent food and everyone there is sooooo friendly! If you haven't tried MEM out for awhile, you need to go back and treat yourself to some koobldeh, it's amazing. Nice job folks. read more

Alireza S.

6 years ago

This place has one of the best traditional persian food on the bay area . It's just great food , a place that you can find everything you need. read more