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ZipPicks Awards
Best Restaurants for Special Occasions in Westwood
Best Middle Eastern in Westwood
Best Mediterranean in Westwood
Master Critic Review
Shamshiri Grill
8.4
Vibes:
Group Dining Gatherings
Family Friendly Favorites
Comfort Food Classics
Birthday & Celebration Central
A Westwood institution since the early 1980s, Shamshiri Grill serves generous platters of Persian kebabs, stews, and fresh breads in a space that turns from casual by day to softly romantic at night. It’s a neighborhood standby for multi-generational celebrations and big-group dinners.
Must-Try Dishes:
Koobideh and barg kebab combo, Lamb shank with baghali polo, Tahchin with chicken
Scores:
Value: 8.8
Service: 7.8
Consistency: 8.7
Food Quality: 8.7
Atmosphere: 6.7
Cultural Relevance: 8.8
What makes it special: Long-running Persian spot known for heaping kebab platters and fresh bread.
Who should go: Families and big groups craving a hearty Persian feast.
When to visit: Weekend evenings when the grill is packed and lively.
What to order: Mixed kebab platter, lamb shank, tahchin with chicken.
Insider tip: Order extra sangak bread and plan to take leftovers home.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Metered street parking on Westwood Blvd and adjacent residential streets; can be competitive during peak dinner hours. No valet.
Dress code: Casual to smart casual; families, students, and dressed-up groups all fit in comfortably.
Noise level: Moderate — lively during peak hours but still manageable for group conversations.
Weekend wait: 30–45 minutes without a reservation, longer for large parties.
Weekday lunch: Usually seated immediately or within 5–10 minutes.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — multiple vegetarian stews, appetizers, and kabob plates.
Vegan options: Several items can be made vegan (stews, salads, rice dishes), but selection is moderate.
Gluten-free options: Many kabobs, stews, and rice dishes are naturally gluten-free; ask about sauces and marinades.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Better for second or third dates — portions are large, the vibe is warm and bustling, and it’s more about comfort than intimate ambiance.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Often yes for smaller groups, especially early evening or weekdays. Larger parties should call ahead to avoid long waits.
Is it kid-friendly? Very — relaxed atmosphere, big booths, shareable plates, and mild options make it ideal for families with children of all ages.
Best For
Better for: Generous portions, traditional Persian flavors, and big-group celebrations where everyone wants to share plates and leave full.
Skip if: You want a quiet, romantic dinner or a high-end tasting-menu experience — the energy here leans lively and abundant.
Hours
Monday11:30am - 9pm
Tuesday11:30am - 9pm
Wednesday11:30am - 9pm
Thursday11:30am - 9pm
Friday11:30am - 10pm
Saturday12pm - 10pm
Sunday12pm - 9pm