Aria Restaurant

Aria Restaurant serves Persian and Mediterranean food, built around homemade yogurt and eggplant dips, dip breads and kabobs such as Beef Koobideh over cherry-dotted Persian rice. Khoresht Fesenjan, a chicken stew with pomegranate and walnuts, and Saffron Chicken are among its signature plates. Desserts include baklava and saffron rose ice cream, served after Persian tea scented with cardamom.

The dining room seats up to 120 guests, and a private banquet room suits smaller celebrations and romantic dinners. The wine list includes over 30 wines by the glass along with local beers. Online ordering is available, and special events and catering are booked by phone. The restaurant is on Descanso Avenue in San Marcos and is open every day from late morning, with weekend hours running later.