Palm Springs, CA
Right in Uptown Palm Springs, where Roly China Fusion once served its patrons, a new culinary experience for Palm Springs residents and visitors has emerged. Saffron Restaurant & Lounge‘s, name is derived from “Saffron is a spice derived from the flower of Crocus sativus which is commonly known as the “saffron crocus.” The restaurant is inspired by the traditions of Persian cuisine, offers a new journey through flavors steeped in history and crafted with Palm Springs modern flair.
On its website, the restaurant welcomes its customers “to a world of Persian Cuisine where two thousand FIVE HUNDRED year old recipes work in tandem with modern techniques.”
Saffron’s menu is a culinary homage to Persian Cuisine, blending recipes perfected over 2,500 years with contemporary techniques. Each dish invites diners to savor the essence of Persian culture while exploring bold, innovative flavors.
Mezze (Appetizers): The Perfect Start
Begin your meal with mezze—small plates brimming with rich flavors. Highlights include Tahdig, a crispy bread and rice dish served with three different savory stews, and the creamy Hummus Plate. Other Persian classics include Dolma (grape leaves stuffed with seasoned rice), Masto Kheyar (Persian yogurt with cucumber and dill), and Kashke Bademjan (a roasted eggplant dip enriched with fried mint), among other delectable options.
Kashke Bademjan
Grilled Perfection and Hearty Entrées
For the main course, the grill takes center stage with showstoppers like the slow-braised Lamb Shank or Kebab Soltani, a regal pairing of tender filet mignon and spiced ground beef. For fans of hearty stews, dishes like Ghormeh Sabzi, a fragrant herb-based stew, and Fesenjoon, featuring walnuts and pomegranate, showcase the depth and complexity of Persian flavors. Each entrée is served with saffron-infused rice, a hallmark of Persian cuisine.
Lamb Shank at Saffron Restaurant and Lounge
Sweet Endings
No meal at Saffron is complete without dessert. The creamy Bastani Sonati, flavored with saffron and pistachios, or the delicate Fried Honey Pastry with Saffron Tea offers a sweet conclusion to your Persian culinary adventure.
A Bridge Between Tradition and Modernity
Saffron is more than just a restaurant—it’s a cultural experience. Driven by a deep love for Persian heritage, the founders have crafted a space where ancient traditions and modern innovation blend. From the thoughtfully prepared dishes to the warm and inviting ambiance, Saffron serves as a gateway to Persian culture for both locals and visitors.
Whether you’re a longtime fan of Persian cuisine or exploring it for the first time, Saffron Restaurant & Lounge promises a memorable dining experience in the heart of Palm Springs.