Middle East Market Café: A Father’s Dream, a Son’s Vision, and a Community’s Table

On that lively stretch of San Pablo Avenue just past where it intersects University, you’ll

find the beloved Middle East Market, a cornerstone of Persian culture and cuisine in the

East Bay. Established in 1974, it was one of the first Persian markets in Northern

California, and for generations, it’s been more than a place to shop—it’s where families

rediscover the flavors of home and newcomers are introduced to the richness of Persian

cooking. Among its most loyal patrons was Hossein, who immigrated from Iran in 1976.

For nearly forty years, he returned week after week, often with his young son, Amir, by

his side.

Hossein dreamed of creating a place where food and culture could bring people

together—a vision that came full circle in 2015 when he and Amir assumed ownership

of the business. Together, father and son have nurtured the market into something

more than a grocery: a community hub filled with warmth, conversation, and the aroma of freshly baked bread. Earlier this year, when the space next door became available, Amir and Hossein seized the opportunity to expand. Fueled by enthusiasm, ambition, and a deep sense of connection to their customers, they transformed it in less than a week into Middle East Café—the natural next chapter of their family story.

Built on three guiding values—Community. Cuisine. Culture.—The café extends the market’s spirit into a welcoming gathering place. Where the market offers the ingredients, the café now serves the finished dishes; where the aisles once buzzed with friendly chatter, the café’s tables and garden invite guests to linger, connect, and share meals.

Step inside and you’ll feel it immediately: the warmth of Persian hospitality. Whether

you’re greeted by Amir himself or one of the friendly staff, you’re not just a

customer—you’re treated like family. Every detail reflects this philosophy, from the

attentive service to the thoughtful menu that blends tradition with creativity.

Among the standouts is the Koobideh Plate, one of the café’s most popular dishes.

Skewers of ground beef and lamb are grilled to perfection—juicy, tender, and full of smoky flavor. They’re served alongside fluffy saffron rice, a dollop of maast moosir

(yogurt with shallots), and slivered raw onions. At every table, a shaker of sumac adds a final, tangy touch for those who like another layer of flavor.

For something handheld, the Falafel Wrap is a crowd favorite—and enormous. It’s

stuffed with crisp falafel, fresh cilantro, tomato, onion, lettuce, pickles, and shallots, all brought together with a generous drizzle of yogurt that makes every bite creamy, bright,

and satisfying.

The café also features a full bar, a newer addition that reflects the team’s flair for

innovation. Signature cocktails include the Persian Margarita, infused with hibiscus for a floral twist, and the Pomegranate Ember, a vodka-based drink that balances sweetness with a subtle smoky depth.

If you prefer to dine outdoors, don’t miss the beautiful back patio, adorned with festive décor and string lights. It’s a serene space to enjoy fresh air, lively conversation, and the best of Persian hospitality—perfect for lingering over a meal or cocktail on a warm evening.

Middle East Market Café stands as a living testament to a father’s dream and a son’s

determination. It’s a place where community and culture flourish over plates of lovingly prepared food and glasses raised in celebration. Though Hossein has now retired, his dream lives on through Amir, who continues to serve, sustain, and