Persepolis

Among the flight of prized Middle Eastern restaurants beside Tuanjiehu station is an Iranian novice named after the ancient capital of the first Persian Empire, Persepolis. In a patch of land where one crowded hookah-filled patio can seem just as good as any, this newcomer has certainly staked its territory with confidence. For starters, the new furniture on the terrace certainly adds a shine that its tired comrades can’t match. Inside, raised ceilings crisscrossed with royal blue paint cap colorful, cheery, Persian-style décor in just the way you might imagine a restaurant in Iran would look. Cerulean tiles, light brick, and traditional Persian paintings lend a backdrop for belly dancers (Fri-Sat, 8pm). During a sunny lunch hour, ornate blues and golds shimmer on decorative place settings. A cactus-stemmed grail glimmers, its canary yellow rice pudding spiced with saffron and cinnamon greeting diners in the foyer. It’s a dessert, or a starter should you give in so soon, on a well-rounded menu whose dishes are the by-product of talented, former Iranian Embassy Chef Ahmad Mirrokni.