Spice level warning — Ash Reshteh is not what I expected

I underestimated Ash Reshteh. The sweet-sour with pomegranate description didn't prepare me for the reality. saffron brings a heat or pungency that builds steadily rather than hitting upfront. By halfway through I was sweating but couldn't stop eating.

the sofreh spread on the floor is the traditional Iranian dining setting. The a Persian New Year nowruz celebration setting means locals eat this with ease while visitors like me reach for water. fresh pomegranate juice cut through it better than water would have. Don't order the mild version out of caution — the full version is the point. I'd go back. Three stars only because I wasn't warned.