Seemor
Ravagh Persian GrillB+Worth Trying
1135 1st Ave, New York, NY 10065
· Persian restaurant, Grill, Caterer
· 4.5/5 Google (1300 reviews)
Reservations · Delivery · Takeout
Reliable Persian kebabs and stews with generous portions and warm vibe, though authenticity debates, service inconsistency, and added service charges mean expectations should be managed.
Why it gets a B+ for overall quality
Ravagh Persian Grill delivers solid neighborhood dining with strong food quality anchored by genuinely praised lamb shank and koobideh that keep regulars returning. However, inconsistent execution on seasoning and doneness and uneven service interactions, particularly at the host stand, prevent it from reaching higher territory. Generous portions and complimentary bread offer good value, though the automatic service charge and recent price increases temper the overall appeal for casual diners.
Restaurant Summary
On a busy First Avenue stretch, Ravagh feels like a neighborhood standby where plates of saffron-scented rice and smoky kebabs arrive with warm, fresh bread. Many guests describe staff as friendly and welcoming, though a few encounters at the host stand feel uneven. Portions are hearty, and one regular put it simply: "We keep going back." The cooking leans traditional—think tender lamb shank with dill-flecked green rice, juicy koobideh, and comfort stews. Most diners praise the kebabs and barberry-studded rice, while a minority debate authenticity of spice blends. Expect straightforward flavors over flash, and note an automatic service charge that can catch first-timers off guard. Families do well here. Kids gravitate to plain rice and grilled chicken, and the menu has gentle flavors and simple sides. There is no explicit kids menu, but shareable portions make it easy to build a child-friendly plate; allergy families should ask about shellfish cross-contact on the grill.
At a Glance
- Generous portions with complimentary warm bread
- Consistently praised lamb shank and juicy kebabs
- 18% service charge reported in checks
- Host/manager interactions vary; some report rudeness
- Authenticity debates on koobideh seasoning
What Sets It Apart
- lamb_shank_green_rice_combo
- complimentary_warm_bread
- broad_gluten_free_options
What People Love
- Warm bread and dips to start
- Tender lamb shank with aromatic green rice
- Juicy beef and chicken kebabs
- Cozy, busy neighborhood vibe
Points of Concern
- Automatic service charge surprised several diners; budget accordingly
- Seating and host policies feel inconsistent at peak times
- Delivery can run long with occasional order errors
- Shellfish grilled on shared surface limits severe allergy accommodation
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average Cost$42-$58 per person
ReservationsRecommended
What to Order
- Pair a kabob with Zereshk Polo for sweetness and tang from barberries
- Vegetarians: order the Vegetarian Kabob with hummus and a salad
- Allergy diners: verify shellfish use on shared grill before ordering
Perfect For
- Weeknight kebab cravings with friends
- Family dinners with shareable plates
- Neighborhood casual date night
- Takeout when you want hearty stews
Location Insights
Area: Residential Upper East Side strip with steady neighborhood traffic and casual dining spots; family and after-work crowd.
Safety: Generally safe, well-lit, active foot traffic into late evening.
Nearby: Near hospitals and residential towers; bars and cafes along First Ave; close to E/M/6 lines within several blocks.
Upper East SideThe Upper East Side is characterized by its upscale residential buildings, cultural institutions, and a refined dining scene that includes classic American eateries, high-end restaurants, and casual cafes. The atmosphere is generally quiet and sophisticated, attracting a mix of well-to-do locals and visitors seeking quality dining experiences.
Turtle BayTurtle Bay is a smaller enclave within Midtown East known for its proximity to the United Nations and a diverse dining scene that ranges from casual bistros to international cuisine. It has a slightly more dynamic and cosmopolitan vibe compared to the broader Upper East Side.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday11:00–23:00
Tuesday11:00–23:00
Wednesday11:00–23:00
Thursday11:00–23:00
Friday11:00–23:00
Saturday11:00–23:00
Sunday11:00–23:00
Available: Reservations, Delivery, Takeout
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