"The family behind Sadaf—a big, banquet-friendly spot in Encino—also runs Darya in Westwood, and while we’re not sure if we could tell their food apart blindfolded, the traditional Persian staples at Sadarfare reliably delicious and built to be shared with a crowd. On weekends, you’ll see families passing around koobideh platters, stew combos, and eggplant appetizers in glassed-in private rooms. Don’t be surprised if you see entire tables crushing house margaritas and Persian mules from the full bar as instrumental Bryan Adams covers play on the sound system." - brant cox, arden shore, garrett snyder, sylvio martins