The Art of the Persian Table: Design and Connection at Shahnamah Jeddah
©Shahnamah
Jeddah’s coastal skyline has always been a canvas for architectural and cultural evolution, but the arrival of Shahnamah introduces a narrative that feels both remarkably fresh and deeply rooted. Situated in a prime location near the Red Sea, this is a destination where the weight of Persian history is balanced by a sharp, contemporary design eye, creating an environment that stands as a masterclass in modern hospitality.
A Design Built for Connection
The interior, envisioned by Atelier Wren, moves away from traditional restaurant layouts to embrace a more organic, social geometry. The "circularity" of the space is its defining feature; circular tables are intentionally placed to facilitate eye contact and effortless conversation, while the deep, fixed sofas offer a physical "embrace" that encourages guests to settle in for hours rather than minutes.
The aesthetic is a sophisticated interplay of textures and tones. Dark solid wood floors and glossy tiles meet the rustic charm of brick-domed ceilings, all tied together by a palette of rich red marble and bespoke furniture. Every piece—from the ash veneer and palissandro marble tables to the Essex armchairs and Rumi barstools—has been upholstered with care, balancing cool blues and warm yellows. Whether flooded with natural light at midday or glowing under soft evening lamps, the atmosphere remains one of refined, effortless grace.
©Shahnamah
A Culinary Heritage Reimagined
At the heart of Shahnamah is an open kitchen that acts as a window into the Persian soul. The ritual begins with the Taftoon, a large, seeded flatbread baked in traditional clay ovens, arriving at the table as the essential companion to a suite of vibrant starters.
The menu strikes a balance between delicate textures and bold, sun-drenched ingredients. The Zeytoon Parvardeh—green olives marinated with date molasses and ground walnut—offers a deep complexity, while the Borani Bademjoon provides a silky blend of strained yoghurt and coal-cooked aubergine. For those seeking the "slow-cooked" soul of Iran, the Fesenjoon, a chicken stew enriched with pomegranate molasses, offers a sophisticated interplay of sweet and tart, while the Baghali Polow—tender lamb shank served with dill and broad bean rice—remains a definitive highlight.
©Shahnamah
The Spirit of Sociality
The grill at Shahnamah is where technical skill meets tradition. From the Shishlik (lamb cutlets marinated in roasted garlic) to the Kabab Makhloot Lox, each dish is a testament to the art of the marinade, served with the iconic Saffron Tahdig, the prized crispy rice crust. For larger gatherings, the Mix Grill Sharing Dish transforms a meal into a grand social event, embodying the restaurant's commitment to the pleasure of sharing.
What sets Shahnamah apart is this dedication to the "sociality" of dining. This is a destination for celebration, where luxury is found in the details—the weight of the silverware, the precision of the tableware, and the welcoming water fountain that greets visitors at the entrance. Spread over two floors, the restaurant offers various experiences, from intimate private dining to the communal energy of tea-tasting sessions.
The success of this unique vision has recently seen the brand bring its signature atmosphere to Riyadh, expanding the Shahnamah legacy to the capital. However, here in Jeddah, the flagship continues to serve as a premier sanctuary for those who appreciate the intersection of high design and authentic tradition.
Shahnamah doesn't just serve food; it hosts an experience where the heritage of the Silk Road meets the modern metropolitan pulse of Saudi Arabia.
©Shahnamah
Our experience at Shahnamah was hosted.