Nestled in the heart of Hove, Shandiz is a warm, family-run Persian restaurant offering an inviting escape on Brighton's sunny coast. Just a short stroll from Hove's bustling seafront and the vibrant local shops, it’s easy to reach by bus or car, with street parking nearby.
Step inside, and you’re greeted by an elegant interior adorned with Persian antiques, mirrored walls and soft classical music, creating a cosy yet refined atmosphere. The restaurant’s layout is thoughtfully designed to accommodate a mix of quiet corner tables and more spacious seating, making it a popular choice for birthday celebrations, casual date nights or simply catching up with friends over a shared mezze spread. The staff are welcoming and attentive, ensuring that each visit feels special.
The menu is a celebration of authentic Persian cuisine, crafted with fresh, high-quality ingredients by their dedicated Persian chef. Start with vibrant dips like mast-o-khiar (yoghurt with cucumber & mint) and mirza ghasemi (smoky aubergine & tomato). Appetisers include sizzling spicy wings and tender chicken fillets, while vegetarians can enjoy dolmeh felfel (stuffed peppers) or falafel. For mains, the charcoal-grilled dishes shine: skewers of premium lamb (barg, chenjeh, shishlik), chicken kebabs, plus seabass or salmon options served with fragrant rice and salad. Persian specials like zereshk polo (saffron chicken and barberries) and fesenjan (walnut-pomegranate stew) add richness to the experience. The menu is also friendly to diets - vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free and halal options abound, and kids are well catered for with grilled wraps and nuggets.
Whether you're after a comforting midweek dinner, a family celebration, or a smoky mezze night with friends, Shandiz delivers genuine Persian hospitality, flavour-packed dishes, and a hospitable atmosphere you’ll want to revisit.