Welcome to Darband Persian Grill
Darband Persian Grill, located in the heart of San Diego's Little Italy, offers an authentic taste of Persian cuisine that captivates both locals and visitors. Renowned for its expertly crafted kabobs, the menu features a variety of dishes, including the highly recommended Chicken Shish Kabob and the succulent Lamb Rack Kabob, all served with flavorful basmati rice. Diners rave about the generous portions and the freshness of ingredients, complemented by a welcoming atmosphere and attentive service. Whether you're enjoying the vibrant salads or the rich, aromatic teas, Darband provides a memorable dining experience that beautifully showcases Persian culinary traditions.
- 1450 Kettner Blvd, San Diego, CA 92101, United States1450 Kettner Blvd, San Diego, CA 92101, United States Hotline: +1 619-230-1001
Welcome to Darband Persian Grill, a culinary gem nestled in the heart of Little Italy, San Diego. With a focus on authentic Persian cuisine, this vibrant eatery takes dining beyond mere sustenance—transforming it into a delightful experience celebrated for its rich flavors and warm hospitality.
Located at 1450 Kettner Blvd, Darband prides itself on serving an array of well-prepared dishes that showcase the essence of Persian culinary traditions. From succulent grilled kabobs to fresh salads, each plate is crafted with care and quality ingredients. Guests rave about highlights like the Darband Special, a sumptuous combination platter featuring beef kabob, ground sirloin, and chicken kabob, accompanied by fluffy basmati rice and grilled veggies. It’s a feast that easily satisfies multiple diners, making it a perfect choice for sharing.
One of the standout features of Darband is its attention to detail in flavor profiles, as echoed by satisfied customers. Bailey Hutton described the portions as generous, providing enough for days, while others like Mahima Murali were particularly taken by the juicy, perfectly cooked kababs that simply burst with flavor. The compliment towards their hummus, paired with fresh bread, indicates a commitment to freshness and quality, though some guests wish for a little more of that delightful accompaniment.
The ambiance adds an inviting touch to the experience. Clean, spacious, and aesthetically pleasing, Darband Persian Grill provides a welcoming environment for both casual diners and those looking for a commemorative meal. Moreover, the friendly and professional staff enhance the atmosphere, making diners feel right at home—an aspect highlighted by multiple reviews.
What truly sets Darband apart is their commitment to authentic flavors and culinary integrity. Whether you’re indulging in the tender salmon kabob or savoring their crispy Caesar salad, every bite reflects a passion for quality and authenticity. The self-service tea offers a comforting finish, enveloping guests in warm aromas that linger beautifully in memory.
If you find yourself in San Diego, Darband Persian Grill is a must-visit. Dive into a world of flavors, generosity, and a slice of Persian culture that promises to leave you with a memorable dining experience. With every dish lovingly prepared and served, it’s a delicious invitation to explore the rich culinary landscape of Persia right in the heart of California.

This place is soooo good. The portions are huge, which is so nice because it feeds me for like 3 days. And the food is always so fresh. Ive been multiple times and the people are always so friendly, the space is huge and really clean.

We recently had the pleasure of dining at Darband in Little Italy, located in downtown San Diego. The experience was nothing short of amazing. Our server, Hussein, was outstanding - his service was both warm and professional. The food is a highlight, offering a symphony of flavors in every bite. The meat dishes stand out for their superb quality and taste, and the appetizers, especially the hummus, are simply delightful. Every dish we tried was fresh, tasty, and well-prepared. Darband is a gem that provides a memorable dining experience, leaving us completely satisfied. Highly recommend for a taste of excellence!

Halal Kababs and mediterranean food. We ordered- The Darbaand special ( I think) - It had beef kabob, ground sirloin kabob, chicken kabob, and came with rice and grilled veggies. The platter can be easily shared among 2/3 people.9/10 Hummus - 7/10, it comes with bread. They should give more bread. Overall, the food was fresh, delicious, and flavorful. Do visit if you can. The bathrooms were clean, but i wish they had kept a bidet as they are a halal restaurant.

Had an amazing time at Darband Restaurant! If you’re in San Diego and looking to try authentic Persian cuisine, this place is a must. I got the combination platter with chicken and Shah kabab, and both were cooked perfectly so juicy, flavorful, and just hit the spot. Can’t even explain how good it was, you gotta try it yourself! Also, their self-service tea Smelled incredible and tasted just as good strong and full of flavor. Definitely coming back! Oh, and the decor and vibe? Totally picture-worthy!

One of my favorite spots! The food is always fresh and tasty, and the vibe is super chill. You have to try the salmon kabob—perfectly cooked and full of flavor. The rice is fluffy, the portions are generous, and the service is always friendly. Definitely recommend if you’re in the mood for some solid Persian food.

Really good Persian food. Succulent grilled lamb shank with a mountain of basmati rice for only 22 and salmon kebab for 17 make for a filling lunch in Little Italy. Nice to have a delicious alternative to the ubiquitous Italian cuisine. Cheers!

Great authentic Persian food. Laid-back location. Staff are amazing just an awesome original experience. Thank you all.

I had the most incredible dining experience at Darband Persian restaurant in Little Italy, San Diego. From the moment I walked in, the warm and inviting ambiance immediately put me at ease. The restaurant's elegant decor and cozy atmosphere made it the perfect place to enjoy a delightful meal. Now, let's talk about the food – it was truly outstanding! Darband offers the best Persian cuisine I've ever tasted. Every dish was a burst of authentic flavors and impeccable seasoning, leaving me craving for more. The kebabs were succulent and grilled to perfection, and the saffron-infused rice was a heavenly accompaniment. The chef's dedication to using top-quality ingredients was evident in every bite, and the attention to detail in the presentation made the dishes even more enticing. The service was impeccable, with the staff being attentive and friendly throughout the entire meal. They were knowledgeable about the menu and offered excellent recommendations, enhancing the overall dining experience. Another notable aspect was the generous portions, ensuring that no one leaves the restaurant unsatisfied. Despite the fantastic quality, the prices were reasonable, making Darband a great value for the exceptional food they offer. If you're a fan of Persian cuisine or looking to try something new, I can't recommend Darband enough. It's a hidden gem in Little Italy, San Diego, and a culinary journey that will leave you with a lasting impression. I can't wait to return and indulge in more of their best-in-class dishes!"