People talk
Our Guestbook
“ This is a San Marcos hidden gem. I usually like Persian food & don't usually order chicken. So when my server kept insisting I try the combo plate with chicken & beef kabobs I first hesitated, but finally decided to try it - & I am SO glad I did - was the most AMAZING chicken I've ever had at a restaurant! You gotta try it - the saffron seasoning gives it this incredible flavor. The food is really good here - stop talking & eat! ”
“ Beautiful Kubideh, Eggplant dip! and I loved the homemade Doogh too! Very nice and friendly staffs. ”
“ good food taste authentic would go back again thank you ”
“ Came to this restaurant because I love Persian food. We came in a party so I had a little bit of everything. My plate was the chicken & beef kabob combo with rice. Appetizers were point we had the yogurt & cucumber. Hummus and eggplant were on point. I tried the salmon kabob which I never had and it was better than I thought ! Definitely coming back here so I can try some more stuff ! There was enough space in the restaurant to sit and the staff was great at explaining the menu. ”
“ Food 5* Vibe 4* Service 5* The food here is fantasic. The beef and chicken both are declicious and juicy. So i dont think you will be disappointed by anything you order. My only issue with the tables is that they are too close to the booths. So the table that was next to us, we could hear their entire conversation the entire time, it was distracting and took a way a bit of our experience. ”
“ Delicious variety of Persian and Mediterranean food. All is gluten free except pitas and desserts. ”
“ I didn't take any pictures here, sorry. I did enjoy this restaurant though! I have loved Persian food for many years, and as a vegetarian, this restaurant had many options that I could have. On this visit I had the Falafel sandwich. Previous visit I had veggie Ghormeh Sabzi which was terrific! This was a great lunch option and it was very tasty. The falafel was flavored correctly and nicely supplemented by the eggplant and Persian spices. The sandwich held together nicely (I hate sandwiches that break aprt when you pick them up!) and it was just the right size for lunch! Service was friendly and prompt. I will be back soon for a dinner visit! ”
“ Food was awesome! Chicken was soo tender! Place was pretty and looked well maintained. Service was very nice! ”
Menu
Hummus
Olive
Bamiyeh
Zoolbia
Ice Cream & Faloudeh (Mixed)
About
Aria Restaurant - San Marcos
Welcome to Aria Restaurant - San Marcos, a true hidden gem in the heart of San Marcos, California. Located at 1650 Descanso Ave, this delightful eatery specializes in authentic Persian cuisine, offering a rich tapestry of flavors that celebrate the culinary heritage of Iran. From the moment you step through the door, you are enveloped in a warm and inviting atmosphere, enhanced by friendly and attentive staff eager to guide you through an exquisite menu.
Aria Restaurant is renowned for its mouthwatering selection of dishes that take diners on a delicious journey. Start your meal with their Lentil Soup or a fresh Garden Salad, which features crisp lettuce, ripe tomatoes, and refreshing Persian cucumbers. For those looking for something bolder, the Greek Salad or Shirazi Salad offers a delightful burst of flavor with every bite.
The star of the show at Aria is undoubtedly the kebabs. The Chicken Kabob Sandwich is a must-try, showcasing tender pieces of chicken marinated to perfection, while the Beef Koubideh Sandwich appeals to meat lovers with its juicy flavor. Vegetarian diners will also find joy in the flaky Falafel Sandwich, which is well-complemented by lettuce and tomatoes.
Don't overlook the special Mediterranean stews, such as Ghormeh Sabzi and Fesenjoon, which are deeply flavorful and rich in Persian spices. These dishes reflect the restaurant’s commitment to authenticity, as noted by patrons like Westin Peralta, who praises the incredible saffron seasoning of the chicken.
Feedback highlights the genuine taste of Aria’s offerings. Reviewers like Cero Grubs raved about the kabob combo, expressing that the salmon kabob exceeded their expectations. Diners also appreciate the space and ambiance despite some minor noise concerns. The delectable homemade Doogh and flavorful eggplant dishes are frequently mentioned, underscoring Aria’s wide appeal.
Overall, Aria Restaurant - San Marcos presents an extraordinary dining experience that is both casual and refined. With dishes that evoke a sense of home and heritage, every visit promises more than just a meal; it’s an invitation to celebrate the diverse and robust flavors of Persian cuisine. Whether you’re a long-time fan of Persian food or a curious newcomer, Aria invites you to come in, indulge, and let your taste buds wander through a culinary adventure.
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