Seemor
Shandiz Persian & BBQ GrillB+Worth Trying
118 Church Rd, Brighton and Hove, Hove BN3 2EA
· Persian restaurant
· 4.5/5 Google (897 reviews)
Reservations · Delivery · Takeout
Popular Persian grill with tender kebabs and generous portions, but service consistency and occasional cleanliness or management issues mean experiences can vary.
Why it gets a B+ for overall quality
Shandiz delivers solid neighborhood dining through strong kebab quality and aromatic rice paired with generous portions and fair value. However, inconsistent seasoning across visits and recurring service lapses during busy periods prevent a higher grade. The warm, bustling family atmosphere and accessible menu make it a reliable local choice, though not a destination restaurant.
Restaurant Summary
On Church Road in Hove, Shandiz draws crowds with the scent of charcoal and saffron, a room that feels warm and bustling, and staff who are often friendly though occasionally stretched. One diner summed it up: "The chops were juicy and the rice aromatic," while another noted a lively family vibe that can get noisy with big tables. In the kitchen the focus is classic Persian grills and stews rather than cheffy theatrics: koobideh, joojeh, shishlik, plus mezze like mirza ghasemi and kashke bademjoon. Portions are generous and platters offer strong value, though seasoning can vary—most plates sing, a minority feel underpowered. Service is generally kind but not flawless, and a few accounts describe management interaction concerns when issues are raised. For families, this is an easy win: simple grilled chicken, rice, fries, and even nuggets sit alongside mild stews, so kids can eat well without fuss. There is no explicit kids menu noted, but the menu naturally suits younger palates, and sharing platters make family ordering simple.
At a Glance
- Tender kebabs and fluffy saffron rice draw repeat visits
- Generous portions and good value platters
- Service lapses like missed waters or sauces during busy times
- Isolated cleanliness and management attitude complaints
- Expect lively noise levels with large groups at peak times
What Sets It Apart
- charcoal_kebab_specialist
- broad_veggie_selection
- value_sharing_platters
What People Love
- Juicy shishlik and tender koobideh
- Aromatic saffron rice and fresh tanoor bread
- Cozy, welcoming vibe
- Platters that feel like a deal
- Reliable mezze starters
Points of Concern
- Service can miss basics like water, sauces, or refills during rushes
- A few diners report bland seasoning or reduced saffron impact
- Isolated hygiene complaints (ants, past foreign object) despite many clean visits
- Occasional reports of curt responses from management when problems are raised
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average Cost£32-45 per person
ReservationsRecommended
What to Order
- Start with Mirza Ghasemi and fresh bread, share a Sultani, add a side of dill broad bean rice
- Vegetarians can choose Bamieh or veg kebab plus a dip flight
Perfect For
- Sharing platters with friends
- Casual family dinners
- Comforting grilled meat cravings
- Pre- or post-seafront meal near Hove
Location Insights
Area: Busy Church Road strip with mixed eateries and bars attracting locals and weekend visitors.
Safety: Generally safe, well-lit main road with steady foot traffic; occasional late-night bustle.
Nearby: Near shops, cafes, and pubs; short walk to Hove seafront; serves as neighborhood dining hub.
West HoveWest Hove is a primarily residential neighborhood with a calm, community-oriented atmosphere. The dining scene here includes a variety of casual and family-friendly restaurants, with a growing presence of international cuisines reflecting the diverse local population. It is accessible and considered safe, attracting locals looking for relaxed dining options away from the busier Brighton center.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday12:00–22:00
Tuesday12:00–22:00
Wednesday12:00–22:00
Thursday12:00–22:00
Friday12:00–22:00
Saturday12:00–22:00
Sunday12:00–22:00
Available: Reservations, Delivery, Takeout
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