Narenj Restaurant

I'm a big believer in giving restaurants second chances as 'off days' happen, but I feel really annoyed that after three visits over the span of around 10 years, Persian Riverside (formerly known as Narenj) is still really bad. As someone who is half Persian and has eaten Persian food frequently for over 30 years, everywhere from Toronto to Tabriz and many places in-between, Persian Riverside would be what I consider as one of the very worst out of hundreds of Persian meals I've had.

I am fairly certain the starters were out of the tin. Watery and tasteless Maast-o-Musir, which should be made of thick, strained yogurt and packs a punch. The salad looked about a week old and the grilled tomato was mushy (it was well past its best!)

Meagre portions too! I've never seen such a small portion of rice outside of the Persian fine dining arena.

The only thing I could say was acceptable was the Joojeh on the bone. Not amazing but not terrible.

It's always a worry when a chef can't get koobideh right. This is a Persian staple and the one at Persian Riverside really misfired.

I'm annoyed that despite a re-brand and a social media campaign they still haven't got it right. I've heard from many people that the place is dead often, no atmosphere as they just can't get bums on seats.

The service was ok, a bit lumpy but not terrible. The big red flag is when one of the waiters asked if I wanted chips with my kabob and then confused when I didn't want chilli sauce with it. Neither chips or chilli sauce are traditionally offered in a Persian restaurant.

We ordered a salad that never arrived, but in hindsight, I'm glad.

There are a ton of much better Persian restaurants in the borough and I hope the products improve. I'd be ashamed of serving up such diabolical food.

Shameful.

You got to wait a long time until the food arrives at the table!
This Iranian or Persian restaurant could be nicer if they could manage bringing food earlier, not so late.
Although not a very big place, narrow and with limited seats, with many friendly staff working on weekends but yet the kitchen chef is very very slow , and I mean it very slow.
Food is good, not amazing but good to satisfy.
Price is not so high but not low either.
Location is water front and excellent, the ambient is authentic. Overall rating is 3 to maximum 4 because of super slow kitchen.

Narenj exceeded all expectations! The food was absolutely delicious, with rich Persian flavors and perfectly cooked dishes. The ambiance was warm and inviting, and the staff were incredibly attentive, making the experience even better. A must-visit for anyone who loves great food and exceptional service!

Had the best time at Persian restaurant,The food was absolutely delicious ,everything from the tender kebabs to the fluffy saffron rice was spot on. The flavors were amazing, and you could tell the dishes were made with so much love.

By far Narenj has been one of the best middle eastern restaurants that I have visited.

The food, the drinks and the staff were amazing.to start with the food had an amazing taste, it wasn't too spicy nor too bland but the taste of every ingredient was present and all of these ingredients were harmonious.

The drinks were pretty nice and they weren't expensive compared to other places.

What I enjoyed the most was the view and the service in Narenj. This place had some sort of outdoor seating that was amazing and it was super unique.

The waitress who served us tonight was super friendly and a really hard worker. She honestly deserves much more than what she is getting based on the excellent service she is providing there.