Iranian Club, Dubai
Extraordinary Experiences #13
“We carry inside us the wonders we seek outside.”
- Rumi
Iran is the land of fruit, long teapots, tapestry and beautiful people. Whoever had the chance to go while they could says there is beauty around every corner. Due to various reasons, geopolitical included, it’s not easy find true Iranian food outside of Iran.
Strangely, Dubai, is one such place. They say Dubai is the gateway to the Middle East, and from a culinary perspective they couldn’t be more right. Asking for Arabic food in Dubai is the same as thinking Africa is a place you can visit. From Lebanese, to Turkish, to Egyptian, to Persian the list goes on and on. Often hummus is the best way to truly distinguish between styles, genres and cuisines.
In 1990, Sheikh Rashid Al Maktoum inaugurated the Iranian Cultural Center as a dedicated space to showcase the richness of Iranian culture. Funded by the Mostazafan Foundation, a semi-government organization in Iran, the center stands as a symbol of Dubai’s commitment to embracing cultural diversity and fostering a welcoming environment for all.
They do a very special and undiscovered Sunday buffet lunch where “everyone” is invited. Of course, you have to be respectful of the culture including the norms around dress code. This isn’t just a meal—it’s an unforgettable journey through Iran’s culinary heritage. From the mixed grills to the whole meat curries with whole peaches, few cuisines balance sweet and savory flavors with such finesse. The kebabs, in particular, are the best I’ve ever tasted - unbelievably tender, pure, and unmatched in flavor.
This beautiful dining experience offers a rare opportunity to savor a culture that, sadly, feels increasingly out of reach.
At Savor, we are curators whose mission is to help people savor life through extraordinary experiences. Welcome to the future of travel.
Every letter will showcase one extraordinary experience from somewhere in this beautiful world. We promise to be objective, independent, authentic and most of all, to never stop seeking. We hope you enjoy the journey with us as much as you do the destination.
Forever seeking,
Team Savor
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Iranian Club, Dubai
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