
Hafez (I)
5 Hereford Road, Paddington, Greater London
About Hafez (I)
An off the beaten track Persian restaurant that has a bistro charm. A wide variety of Persian dishes including freshly baked bread and vegetarian options. Live music at weekends. Hours Mon-Sun 12-12.
Halal summary
A halal sign is clearly visible on the premises. All food at this restaurant is certified halal.
HalalRank
Score reflects a halal certificate on file, with an active issue report under review.
Photos
Hours
Amenities
Location
5 Hereford Road, Paddington, Greater London
Abby Amir
Quiet location with nice ambience. Service can be quite slow at times but the food is good! I love the lamb cutlets which were very tender and tasteful. At the end they would sometimes give sweets like baklava for free too.
Ali Sultan
Enjoy the taste of the food
Google Reviewer
GoogleI went with my parents for an evening meal, it was a treat. Hafez feels less like a restaurant and more like being gently hosted into someone’s exquisitely curated home. Mohammed navigated the evening with quiet confidence, guiding us through the menu with warmth and ease. Katy was attentive in that rare, intuitive way that makes you feel looked after without ever being hovered over. And then Ash coming over personally at the end felt like a graceful closing note, human, generous, and sincere. The food was truly succulent. Traditional Persian dishes, cooked with depth and care, and presented beautifully. Each plate felt considered rather than performative. Even the crockery and cutlery deserve their own mention. Aesthetic objects in their own right, they elevated the experience without shouting for attention. The decor is a boho, creative dream. Persian ornaments, photographs, poetry books, and softly glowing lampshades create an eclectic, layered atmosphere that invites you to linger. It’s soulful without being staged, intimate without being precious. A place where hospitality, beauty, and flavour meet with real heart. One leaves feeling nourished in more ways than one.
Google Reviewer
GoogleReally enjoyed Hafez in Notting Hill. I don’t have many Persian restaurants to compare it to, but the food was excellent. The aubergine mousse and hummus were outstanding — beautifully balanced, subtle seasoning and easily the best I’ve had so far. The bread was very tasty, even if sometimes a bit too crispy. My pea stew (Gheimeh Bademjan) was also very good. Small downside: some dishes are pre-cooked, so customisation (e.g. no coriander) isn’t always possible. Still, absolutely worth a visit and highly recommended!
Google Reviewer
GoogleToday, I was around Nottingham Hill and Queensway, and due to digestive issues, gastritis, and a pancreatic lesion, I was very careful in choosing an Iranian restaurant for lunch—specifically, a meal that was not oily, not spicy, not heavily seasoned, and without saffron, so it would not upset my stomach. Being very familiar with the area and based on past experiences, I ultimately decided to visit Hafez Restaurant. My order was taken with care and respect by the lady manager, who I believe is the owner, and it was prepared exactly as I requested. I was fully satisfied with the quality of the food, particularly the kebab barg. More importantly, I greatly appreciated her humane and respectful attitude and the efficient management of the restaurant, which deserves recognition. A well-known Persian proverb says: “Kindness is a language which the deaf can hear and the blind can see.” To avoid any misunderstanding, and given my specific request for plain rice and just one skewer of kebab, I am not posting a photo of the meal. Nevertheless, I sincerely thank the lady manager and the team at Hafez Restaurant, and I am truly grateful for their attentiveness, respect, and professionalism, which made my lunch a positive and memorable experience. This careful attention, particularly regarding my dietary needs, is a clear indication of the high value the management places on the health and well-being of their customers.
Google Reviewer
GoogleWhenever I’m craving Persian food, Hafez is where I go ! The food is incredible I always get the Kubideh and add one skewer of the boneless saffron chicken. It’s super juicy and delicious. I always order Zereshk on the side to enhance my rice. Their homemade bread along with dips are incredible. Definitely do not miss out on them. Their saffron ice cream and rose vermicelli sorbet are amazing. The atmosphere is quite homey and the decoration is quite lovely ! Service is always fantastic ! And they always accommodate our big family even when we’re groups of 15. Couldn’t recommend it more !
Google Reviewer
GoogleVery friendly and warm, the food was tasty and the presentation was great. The bread was lovely! Very beautiful Iranian bread and the salad was fresh. Portions are well sized and I will definitely be coming back. The aesthetic of the restaurant is amazing. Would highly recommend.















