Leila, a restaurant that pays homage to the rich traditions of the Middle East, is now open in North Park San Diego. Leila’s menu draws inspiration from countries spanning from Morocco to Iran, creating a story of unity through diverse, delicious flavors.
“Leila is born from my personal history as the child of first-generation immigrants who fled the revolution in Iran like many coming here searching for a better life,” says Arsalun Tafazoli, founder of CH Projects, in a press release. “Dad, unable to find firm economic footing here, was forced to return, leading me to spend my childhood traveling between my parents and experiencing the Middle East firsthand. I spent time across the region—from Morocco, Egypt, and Lebanon to Turkey, Iraq, and Iran—witnessing ancient beauty, art, and history amidst sectarian conflict, occupation, and government corruption. The meals and hospitality I experienced gave me a deeper understanding of our shared qualities, showing that our differences, especially around food, transcend the borders drawn by people. Leila is a small personal tribute honoring the beauty and traditions of a region that helped form me.”
The newly opened San Diego restaurant offers a communal dining experience that invites guests to share dishes with their friends and family while engaging in conversation. The menu features rich spreads and sauces, like labneh, muhammara, zhoug, and cucumber yogurt served with freshly baked barbari and fry bread for dipping. Chicken, beef koobideh, quail, and marinated salmon skewers are perfectly seasoned and cooked over an open fire. Appetizers include dishes like tabbouleh made with bluefin tuna, corn, amba, black olive, and red quinoa, while the fire-roasted cauliflower is served with green chermoula, herbs, and anchovy. These appetizers complement shareable proteins like braised and grilled lamb shank and whole fish.
Leila’s beverage program is equally enticing, with cocktails inspired by the region’s flavors. Highlights include the Majda, a Moroccan spritz with Montenegro, ginger, mint tea, and sparkling wine, and the Joon, a Persian-inspired dirty vodka martini served with torshi, a pickled vegetable snack. Non-alcoholic options include drinks such as Cali Persian tea and Turkish coffee.
The restaurant’s interior aims to transport guests to the night markets of Morocco. Intricate millwork, tapestries, and tiles adorn the space, with features such as an 18-ft. water fountain and a starry ceiling that adds to the enchanting ambiance. The main bar is flanked with plaster columns, while the custom island showcases a traditional clay oven that took nine months to build and ship to San Diego, ensuring authenticity in every dish.
Leila is open Monday to Friday, from 5 to 11 p.m., and Saturday to Sunday, from 5 p.m. to midnight.
For more information, visit www.leilanorthpark.com.
3956 30th St.
San Diego, CA 92104
Photo credit: James Tran