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Exclusive: The #Shahs Help You Eat Your Way Through LA
Find out where to go, what to eat, and who to avoid during your next night out in Los Angeles.
If anyone knows the Los Angeles restaurant scene, it’s the Shahs of Sunset cast, with their buzzing dating lives and swamped social schedules. And they’re partial not just to eateries on Sunset Boulevard, but all over the chichi Westside of town — places like Beverly Hills and West Hollywood. Check out four Shahs stars’ favorite places to eat, plus the dining experiences they avoid at all costs.
Reza Farahan
Favorite restaurant: The Ivy, Robertson location
Why he loves it: “I have to go with a classic that never disappoints. It’s iconic, and the food and drink are perfect every time. The atmosphere on the patio is second to none. And I’ve been going there since I was a kid.”
What to try: “The must-haves are the gimlet, crab cakes, and the cobbler. It’s usually berry, but peach in the summer. They also bake all of their own bread, which melts in your mouth.”
Stellar service: “The staff is great you and truly caters to all of your gastronomic needs.”
Reza’s dining turn-off: “I try to avoid the restaurant of the month — the spot where people are truly there for the scene. You know they won’t be in business for long, because the crowd consists mostly of people desperately climbing the social ladder.”
Mercedes “MJ” Javid
Favorite spots: El Compadre and Pace
Why: “I love El Compadre because it's a family-owned Mexican restaurant on the Sunset Strip, with flaming margaritas, and a kitchen that’s open late, which is rare for L.A. The ceviche, guacamole, and lobster enchiladas are my favorite things to order. [It has a] classic Mexican ambience, [is] always festive, [and] great for date night and parties. Pace is a magical, hidden gem in Laurel Canyon, just minutes above Sunset with a romantic brick and wooded cottage motif. The atmosphere and ambience is so unique, wonderful for special occasions with small groups or date night. Their menu has something for everyone.”
Dining-out philosophy: “When I choose a restaurant to dine in, the ambience, comfort, attentive service, and food quality are all a must.”
Photo Credit: Dunne Andino
Asa Soltan Rahmati
Favorite spots: Il Pastaio or Raffi's Place
Dining turn-ons and turnoffs: “I don't go to places just because they're trendy. I like places with character and great food. It could be a five-star restaurant or a hole in the wall.”
Dining-out must-haves: “I pick restaurants based on delicious food. Everybody knows I'm majorly obsessed with food, and that is my priority when going out to eat: Food has to be bomb!”
Asifa Mirza
Favorite spot: Craig’s
Photo Credit: Kelly Balch
Why: “Craig’s has the best food — vegan options, too!”
What to try: “I love their truffle pizza and scallops. The dessert is to die for: bread pudding! Also the restaurant has the best energy and vibe.”
Personalized service: “I go there so often, they take care of me like royalty. I get seated by [general manager] Tommy [Salvatore] and [owner] Craig [Susser] himself right as I walk in. There is a never a dull moment — the place is popping every night with amazing food and beautiful people.”
Asifa’s restaurant must-haves: “Amazing food, great vibe and crowd, friendly service, and a place where it's hard to get a reservation because they are selective about the crowd.”
Absolute dining no-no: “I avoid chain restaurants — not my cup of tea.”
Check out the Shahs' shadiest moments below.
