Raffi's Place

"While its Americana-adjacent location in Glendale makes Raffi’s a good option to grab a quick kebab before doing some shopping, the best way to use this Persian institution is to get together with family or friends for a big group meal. The massive patio space can accommodate any size group and its party-like atmosphere makes the whole place feel like one giant neighborhood reunion. The barg - thinly sliced filet mignon - is charbroiled, perfectly salted, and comes on a bed of fluffy basmati rice with a grilled tomato and Anaheim pepper. Come hungry, and order family-style." - jess basser sanders, brant cox, brett keating

"Raffi’s Place may be one of the most consistently recommended restaurants in Glendale, and for good reason. Founded in 1993 by Rafik Bakijanian, the Persian restaurant is known for its kebabs which are available with chicken, beef, or fish. Try the koobideh kebab with lean ground beef, or the barg kebab with thinly sliced filet mignon." - Rebecca Roland, Matthew Kang

"Raffi’s Place celebrated 30 years in Glendale in 2023. The family-owned business made a name for itself by consistently serving excellent Persian sharable dishes, including a tender filet mignon shish kebab, koobideh, basmati rice, hummus, and shirazi salad. Raffi’s large indoor and courtyard dining areas offer plenty of room for a large celebration." - Mona Holmes, Eater Staff

"Raffi’s Place is what we like to call our typical “Friday lunch spot.” The indoor/outdoor setting is the perfect place to enjoy a beer and a kebab with friends on a sunny day. The menu is authentic Persian and Middle Eastern cuisine, and offers a variety of delicious options. We suggest trying the Gheimeh and the Ghormesabzi. We also suggest going at lunch because dinner can get pretty packed." - Forth + Back

"Glendale is a city that lives and dies by its neighborhood institutions, and Raffi’s is one of the very best. Saying this long-running Persian spot specializes in kabobs is like saying that Paul McCartney specializes in playing music. Our favorite skewer here is the beef barg (thinly sliced filet mignon), which arrives char-gilled and perfectly seasoned, but you really can't go wrong with anything on the menu served on a bed of fluffy sumac-dusted rice with grilled tomato and Anaheim pepper. Most dishes run above the $20 mark, which seems high until you realize Raffi’s portions will feed you and your social circle for a week. The space has a French bistro-ish theme, with white tablecloths, wicker chairs, and striped awnings, and also there’s a tree in the middle of the restaurant if that’s the kind of thing that makes you excited." - brant cox, arden shore, garrett snyder, sylvio martins