BolBol

cuisine

Ethnic
Halal

Persian

area

Tokyo
Kichijoji・Koenji・Nakano

Access

3 minutes from Koenji Station (07), north exit.

Price

¥1,000~
¥2,000~¥3,000

Good For

Concept :

Established 18 years ago, BolBol is a Persian restaurant on a side street chock-full of shops near Koenji station. As one of a handful of Iranian restaurants in Tokyo, BolBol has been popular among not only locals and expatriates, but also visiting Iranians. Upon entering the restaurant, one will be instantly surrounded by rows of mosaic wall tapestries and portraits, each depicting legendary Persian figures.

Key Points :

With the delightful chirping of birds in elaborate cages at the entrance, guests are guaranteed a dining experience that is both exotic and educational. On Friday and Saturday evenings, meals at the restaurant are accompanied by belly dance shows. Complemented by songs sometimes played by diners on traditional Persian instruments, such as the setar (a 3-stringed lute) and the tonbak (a goblet drum), the belly dance shows bring diners the vicarious thrills of being in Iran.

Recommended Dishes :

As an essential stop among many Japanese before their first trip to Iran, BolBol serves various traditional dishes for both first-timers and regulars. Kebab koobideh (¥1,100) and gheimeh (lamb stew with tomato hummus ¥1,000) are strongly recommended for newcomers. Another dish that everyone should try is ghormeh sabzi (lamb stew with red beans and herbs ¥1,000). But a meal at BolBol is only complete with the house bastani sonnati (Persian ice cream ¥550).