Every Monday, TMR brings you a restaurant review.

Sometimes you just luck out when it comes to food.  As was the case with a recent blogger media tasting dinner at Moby Dick of Boston.  I accepted a late invitation to sample some Persian culinary delights with six other Boston area food writers.

I honestly had no idea what to expect with Persian food.  Pleasantly surprised would be a vast understatement.  Overwhelmingly happy was a more accurate description.

My meal started off with a simple glass of rose water lemonade.  I quickly deduced that all future Moby Dick visits would begin with this refreshing beverage.  What a perfect summertime drink!  But really, I’d suck this lemonade down with 10-inches of snow outside. The rose water wasn’t too overpowering, but it was certainly there…and provided that distinct taste that separated it from your ordinary fresh lemonade.

The platters of food came out halfway through my beverage.  First, let me start out by saying NOTHING was even average. Everything was excellent. A delicious chopped salad, topped with an amazing cream dressing started things off.

The next plate had a variety of choices, highlighted by the hummus and Mirza Ghassemi (sauteed eggplant with onions, tomatoes, and garlic). It should be noted that I typically despise hummus.  Not on this night. Together with the Mirza, I couldn’t stop devouring the combination. Whenever dining with complete strangers, you’re always a little self conscious about portion control. All bets were off with the hummus/Mirza.

Next, came the rice! Oh my, the glorious rice! The Adas Polo (lentil with sauteed raisins, onions and spices) was good.  The Lubia Polo (green beans, tomatoes, saffron and spices) was great.  And the Shirrin Polo (orange peel, mountain berry pistachio, almond saffron and basmati) was memorable.  All of the varying textures and flavors of Shirrin Polo will blow you away.  The citrus from the orange peel, along with the crunch from the pistachio made this dish so unique.

I’m a food “mixer”, and I found Persian cuisine quite suitable for my dining habits.  The Lubia Polo a little too spicy for you?  No problem…just add a little Shirrin Polo for a hint of sweetness.

And what meal would be complete without hunks of tender grilled chicken, beef, and lamb?  The chicken looked dry at first glance, but this couldn’t be further from the truth.  It was moist and perfectly seasoned…as was the beef and lamb. I went back and forth on which meat reigned supreme. For me, I’d go with the chicken…but I’m more a chicken guy in general.  That said, I’d order the beef and/or lamb in a heartbeat.

Some baklava and bastini (ice cream) were brought out for dessert.  By that time, I only had room for one bite of each.  I’m not a fan of baklava.  It’s really hard for me to comment on the decency of this one…so, I won’t. The bastini was light and refreshing.

It was an evening filled with many superlatives; from my friendly fellow food bloggers, to the simple, yet immaculate setting, to the well-executed and complex dishes by caring restauranteurs.

Moby Dick of Boston
269 Huntington Ave (between Massachusetts Ave & Gainsborough St)
Boston, MA 02115
(617) 236-5511