Shiraz Mediterranean Kitchen has been a Michelin bib gourmand — a good quality, good value — for the past three years. I visited recently with some out-of-town friends.

We started our celebration with the deliciously earthy Orin Swift Papillon 2019 Napa wine with its dark fruit ($160). I learned it is a blend of St. Helena, Atlas Peak and  Rutherford grapes that’s aged 15 months in French oak.

What was a huge hit is their fresh herbs (basil, mint) with warm pita, fresh whole walnuts and feta cheese. So simple and delicious that we decided it would be an easy app to serve guests. Mirza, smoked eggplant with roasted garlic and tomato ($12) —  the only miss — was neither smoky nor flavorful. Do try the flavorful falafel balls ($12 for 5) with tahini and thick pitas.

Their fresh fish is amazing. We had the last two portions of striped bass, the night’s fish special. It was incredibly wonderful: moist and flavorful with fresh veggies ($45). One of us had spinach topped with yogurt, and the other the grilled zucchini. Also good is their branzino; one dining partner had that with grilled carrots. We asked for grilled asparagus ($12) and their special Persian rice with orange zest pistachios and almonds, called Shirin ($12).

We indulged in many desserts, including the Baklavah and pistachio gelato sliced and piled on an edible chocolate cup, pomegranate sorbet ($10) and the Persian love cake ($12)

Still smiling from the tagline on their bill: We know the world is full of choices. Thanks for choosing us!

I recommend a visit.

Shiraz Mediterranean Kitchen
Chelsea
111 W 17th St.
New York, NY 10011
212.517.0840
shirazkitchen.com/