Sofreh on St. Marks Place is that rare gem where tradition meets contemporary flair without losing its soul. This Persian restaurant has been drawing crowds to Brooklyn since opening, and for good reason – it delivers flavors that transport you straight to Tehran without ever feeling stuffy or pretentious.

The space strikes a perfect balance between elegance and comfort with its warm lighting, whitewashed brick walls, and simple wooden tables that let the food take center stage. Chef Nasim Alikhani’s menu reads like a love letter to her Iranian heritage, with dishes that honor tradition while feeling perfectly at home in modern Brooklyn.

Don’t miss their tahdig – that gloriously crispy rice crust that’s the mark of a serious Persian kitchen. The koofteh berenji (herb and rice meatballs) are impossibly tender, and the fesenjan with its walnut-pomegranate sauce hits that perfect sweet-tart-savory note that defines great Persian cooking. Their bread is made in-house and arrives warm, perfect for scooping up their silky hummus.

What makes Sofreh truly special is how it feels both familiar and exciting, whether you grew up eating Persian food or it’s your first time. The staff genuinely wants you to love each dish and will guide you through the menu with enthusiasm that’s contagious. Come hungry, order family-style, and prepare for a meal that lingers in your memory long after you’ve paid the bill.