I knew at some point that I would have to do it. This past weekend, the day finally came. I grabbed a friend, hopped in my car, and headed towards Safa Persian Teahouse in Manayunk.

But oh no, I was not just there for tea. I was at Safa for something much much better.

Iranian Ice Cream (“بستنی سنتی”). Or, better put, rosewater, egg, and saffron Ice Cream topped with pistachios, flower petals, and a crispy sugar wafer. Though I had heard plenty about Iranian-style ice cream, I had never had the chance to try it. After all, you cannot exactly add this to your shopping cart next time you are at the grocery store.

The ice cream was incredible and lived up to the reputation that my Persian friends established for it. The ice cream’s rich and creamy qualities merited a hot glass of Persian black tea served with a stick of rock sugar to stir into the glass and further elevate my blood sugar.  

The teahouse was beautiful, and I thoroughly enjoyed my midday snack; however, the owner informed me that Safa does more than offer premium Persian teas and homemade Saffron ice cream. Safa also sells a variety of Persian pastries, Persian foods like Kashke Badenjan, and occasionally opens at nights for Persian Tasting menus.

Apparently, the restaurant frequently stays open late for events like Valentine’s day where they serve multiple courses of Persian food or exclusively prepare special Persian dishes such as Kabab.

I am fairly upset with myself for not ordering some of the delicious foods that Safa orders; however, I know I will have to go back for some rich teas or one of their specialty nights—and I encourage you all to do the same. Just let me know if you need company!