Komaaj Mazze Wine Bar

You could peek into the window at Komaaj Mazze Wine Bar and mistake it for the bohemian living room of a mansion nearby—there are plush patterned rugs lining the space, pots and ceramics hanging on the walls, and mismatched vases with flowers and houseplants. And sure, you could easily use this homey spot as a “drinks and a light bite” pit stop before heading out for a full meal nearby. But that would mean missing out on the Northern Iranian dishes that make this a dinner destination.

photo credit: Carly Hackbarth

photo credit: Carly Hackbarth

photo credit: Carly Hackbarth

photo credit: Carly Hackbarth

photo credit: Carly Hackbarth

Everything on the shareable menu at this Bernal Heights bar nails the sour-sweet-salty trifecta, thanks to a heavy hand with pomegranates, walnuts, and fresh herbs on just about everything. Start things off with the Rasht mazze platter, a dip-laden plate the size of a car wheel. Or for something more filling, go for the chicken stew that collapses off the bone with just a nudge. Expect to spend hours kicking back in the cheerful space before having to head back to your own (considerably less exciting) living room for the night. 

Food Rundown

photo credit: Carly Hackbarth

Rasht Mazze Platter

This starter is meant to serve four, but you could easily go in with six people and barely feel like you’ve made a dent. The highlights are the creamy eggplant and walnut dip, and the smoked trout that packs a salty punch.

Neshtaa Mazze Platter

For something a little more manageable with a small group, go with the Neshtaa platter. It’s got three dips and a bowl of garlicky marinated olives, and we especially love the dense, seeded goat cheese.

photo credit: Carly Hackbarth

Sweet & Sour Chicken Stew

This is the best entrée on the menu—it’s got enough actual meat for you and your date to have multiple servings, and it’s finished off with a scatter of tangy pomegranate. Just be sure to order a side of rice to soak it all up.

photo credit: Carly Hackbarth

Garlicky Eggplant Bowl

This smoky vegetarian dish is heavy on the garlic and also great with a side of rice. Even if you’re not avoiding meat tonight, you won’t be mad about having this on your table.