Raffi's Place

Frequented by homesick Persians, large parties (a private banquet hall is available), or just anyone with a hankering for a plate full of beef kabob and lavash, the traditional Persian cuisine at this husband-and-wife-owned eatery can be enjoyed outside in the courtyard or in the main dining room. Located in Glendale, the Persians here are mainly Armenian Persians who are usually seated in large groups enjoying dinner at this massive indoor-outdoor restaurant. Enter from the back, through the alley where valet parking is located, and be transported to what you would imagine a restaurant in Iran would look like. The menu boasts meats (chicken, lamb and beef) and what Raffi's is known for is their gigantic serving sizes. Come hungry and be prepared to share! Once you've fully chowed down on your large skewers of ground beef kabob and filet mignon kabob, known as barg, paired with a variety of rice dishes (we recommend trying the sour cherry rice, albaloo polo), sip on the fragrant hot tea (add mint to help with digestion)—a must-try at this Glendale hotspot.