SAFRAN in Thale

An incredibly great restaurant. The owner and his wife were working alone that day because the staff had called in sick. Both the service and the food (we don't eat meat) were delicious and simply wonderful. It's a shame they can't find good staff anymore and will therefore be closing the restaurant in 2026. We would eat there again in a heartbeat. All the best for the future and the New Year.

We didn't feel welcome at all! It seems outsiders aren't exactly appreciated? The host was incredibly friendly with the other guests he knew, but distant with us, only speaking when absolutely necessary, and then in a very questionable, almost snarky tone. I enjoyed the food, but my companion felt it was nothing like the original. I also noticed the absence of some standard items on the menu. Portions could be larger for the price. The hot water in the restroom was turned off. As a result, I felt even colder after washing my hands, because the restaurant itself was also quite chilly.

The food deserves five stars – simply superb. The ambiance is rustic and cozy, thankfully not a trendy neon temple. Unfortunately, the service leaves something to be desired – I had the feeling the young man wasn't very enthusiastic. It also took quite a while for us to even get our drinks. A shame, as this marred the otherwise excellent overall impression.

Delicious vegan food! I'll definitely come again!

Fantastic food! I had the eggplant in tomato sauce as a starter and falafel as a main course, both vegan. It was so delicious. The bread with the starter was also divine. I didn't want to stop eating. The owner (?) is so warm, cheerful, and funny. When they switched from Christmas carols to oriental music, it suited the ambiance even better. A truly wonderful restaurant experience! 🤤 Thank you!

The food was a pleasant surprise! Hospitality could be improved.

We spontaneously decided to have dinner there and were very pleasantly surprised. The welcome was warm, and the food was exquisitely prepared, incredibly delicious, and beautifully presented. We wish the family many happy guests so that their hard work is worthwhile at the end of the day. All the best, see you soon.

Wow! I never would have thought I'd find a restaurant like this in Thale! From the outside, it's almost unassuming, but the service and food are incredibly good. We received a super friendly welcome and were then able to immerse ourselves in Persian cuisine for an evening – and it's really delicious! You absolutely have to try the fried eggplant in garlic and tomato sauce! :)

A fantastic restaurant with great service and excellent food.

Absolutely delicious! Anyone who likes Persian food will find something to their liking here. Even the curious won't be disappointed. It's worth a visit!

So nice...very sociable and personal, super fast service, absolutely friendly...definitely to repeat

Such nice people and also recommended for vegans 😉

To be honest, we were surprised to find a Persian restaurant like Safran in Thale – you really wouldn't expect something like that here! The many positive reviews had piqued our interest, so we reserved a table by phone. Our first impression was very pleasant: The restaurant is lovingly decorated, and the service was friendly, attentive, and warm from the very beginning. The food? Simply fantastic! Every dish was aromatic, freshly prepared, and wonderfully seasoned – you can taste the care and passion that goes into the kitchen. The "fried eggplant" in particular was a real highlight – so good that we absolutely wanted to know the recipe. Unfortunately, we were refused with a smile, on the grounds that it was "too complicated for us." Whatever that means – perhaps a charming kitchen secret! Overall, it was a thoroughly successful evening. Safran is a true culinary gem in Thale that we can wholeheartedly recommend. We'll definitely be back – maybe they'll let us in on the eggplant secret after all.

Very tasty food and good, attentive service.

We came spontaneously with five people without a reservation, were seated, and enjoyed one of the best meals we've ever had. Even our 13-year-old, who bravely opted for the surprise meal despite the restaurant manager's reservations, insisted it was the best meal he'd ever had. The service was impeccable and very friendly. We felt completely at home and can highly recommend this restaurant!

Good family-run restaurant in Thale. Friendly staff. Delicious food.

Really nice food, which can be spicy if you want, without the spicyness overpowering the good taste. Cozy premises and friendly, attentive service. A really nice welcoming experience and a tasty and complex Persian cuisine that you can't find in comparison even in larger cities.

Very tasty dishes! The grilled platter and falafel are highly recommended! It was a lovely evening with great food!

Food was very tasty, service was friendly, ambience could be improved, otherwise we were very satisfied

Delicious food..and great atmosphere

Food was lousy, service was very unpleasant...

Great Persian dishes. Very tasty. Friendly service. 😄

Very tasty food and super nice owners.

Our first Persian experience. Super delicious. Very friendly service.

We're here for the third time today and can only rave about it. The food is incredibly good, everything is crisp and fresh, the staff is super friendly, and the dining room is spotlessly clean, as are the restrooms. My wife and I have a new favorite restaurant, and we're happy to drive 80 km for it.

Very fresh and flavorfully seasoned food! Excellent service and fair prices! I'd gladly go again.

Very tasty food and friendly staff

A great surprise. The food was fantastic and the service perfect. I can recommend it to anyone who wants to try something out of the ordinary.

Extremely good food in a wonderfully oriental atmosphere. The staff is very friendly and dedicated to the well-being of their guests. Less than 15 minutes passed between our order and the food being served. I've never been served so quickly in a restaurant. Highly recommended

We felt comfortable and the food is delicious

A true highlight for Thale. Very friendly service, truly delicious food at reasonable prices. Advance reservations are recommended, though.

I don't need to say more, it's very overpriced and only accepts cash payments. There must be a reason why they only accept cash payments.

Delicious spicy homemade sauce. Tasty dishes. Fast service. Hospitable host!

Delicious food. Highly recommended. We had a flat-screen grill for two people.

We were there today with our two children – the food was delicious, not overly spiced but wonderfully seasoned. The service was very friendly and welcoming, even to the children. We sat outside – the ambiance could certainly be improved, but the evening was still great. If we're ever in the area again, we'll definitely stop by again!

We arrived at 8:40 p.m., and it was already completely closed. According to Google Maps, it was open until 10 p.m. It seems to be a thing in Thale that restaurants close early.

Very good food. Deliciously seasoned. This restaurant is recommended if you enjoy Persian food. Although the door says dogs are not allowed, we were warmly welcomed with our dog.

A culinary highlight! I was completely thrilled with this Persian restaurant. The food was incredibly aromatic and lovingly prepared – the kebab and saffron rice were especially delicious. The vegetarian options were also delicious and authentic. The service was warm and attentive, and you immediately feel welcome. The atmosphere is cozy, stylish, and inviting. I'll definitely be back – I highly recommend it to anyone who wants to discover or enjoy Persian cuisine!

This is our second year here on holiday in the Harz Mountains. We spent wonderful evenings and were always warmly welcomed and served with friendly and attentive service. We had the grill platter for two people, which lets you try everything. It was delicious, and it came with freshly baked bread with herbs. It was fantastic, freshly prepared, and nothing was missing! We'll be back. We need such a great restaurant everywhere, and especially the friendly people who work there. Thanks to the entire team, keep it up, world class!

Sitting outside wasn't so exciting. It's worth doing once.

Some dishes can be prepared vegan, and we enjoyed them immensely. The service was incredibly friendly, and English was no problem either.

Very tasty food. A blend of Iranian and Afghan cuisine. According to the waiter, the meat served is halal, which is another plus. The dough is highly recommended. I've only had better ones in Hamburg at my mother-in-law's.

Simply beautiful, and the waiter makes it very pleasant. Grill platter for two people, beautifully presented, plentiful, and delicious.

I have to say, as a Mecklenburger, I know the saying: "If the farmer doesn't know it, he won't eat it." The food is absolutely top-notch. Highly recommended. Super friendly staff, simply fantastic. I'd be happy to come back anytime.

Really good Persian food. The focus is on traditional dishes, not some mix of schnitzel and doner kebab. - Very good, keep it up! Service was friendly, but untrained and unmotivated. A bit of a shame. The ambiance was okay, considering the location. I would happily recommend the restaurant!

I was there on Sunday. The best food I've ever eaten. Thanks for everything.

Spontaneity is always the best, and we were not disappointed in the slightest! We received a very warm welcome and were shown to our table. Sure, the interior could be changed a bit, improved, or the details could be improved, but that's nitpicking. We ordered a grill for two people and some nuggets with split potatoes for our daughter. I have to be honest - wow! We were completely full by the end, and we all enjoyed the food! It's a bit more expensive than the pub next door, but you should treat yourself every now and then, and in addition to a little joke with the owner, there was also a little something for the little girl. We would go back again and again, as soon as it's time for a holiday in Thale!

Very good! Fresh, delicious, exceptional. The ambiance was nice, and everything was clean. We were extremely impressed. Number 13 is highly recommended!

It was delicious, but we were still a little disappointed. The promised saffron rice didn't have real saffron, and the prices are quite high. However, I missed the ambiance. There was no Persian music 🎶, which we found very disappointing. The meat was deliciously cooked, but somehow something was missing. We're used to something different.

The food was good, but nothing earth-shattering. The chicken with rice is served with a heavy garlicky cream; there are other restaurants that offer a wider variety of dips. The service is friendly, but also a bit inattentive. The ambiance doesn't invite you to linger forever; it's rather poorly decorated. I find dessert for three scoops of ice cream for €9 very excessive. Overall, the price-performance ratio isn't quite right; there are much better options in the area.

Attentive service and a pleasant atmosphere. We enjoyed the food. However, we had expected and hoped for a bit more Persian spices and authentic Persian cuisine from a Persian restaurant. Everything was very lightly seasoned.

Wow! We ate at Safran today and absolutely loved it! Not only was the reception very friendly, but the restaurant is also very nice/authentic. The food crowned the day, simply great! We'll be back!

We were visiting the Harz Mountains again. When we were traveling in Thale we saw the Safran restaurant and decided to eat Persian. Very nice owner and friendly conditions. The food was very tasty and also plentiful. You first have to drive from Bavaria to the Harz to get good Persian food. If we're in the area again, we'll be happy to come back. We ate at Safran again on May 1st, 2025 during our stay in the Harz. As before, it was a great meal. We had the grill plate for 2 people and each had an appetizer. The food was again very tasty and sufficient. We were again warmly welcomed and served just as friendly. Thank you and see you next time.

Very good food. Very tasty and good value for money

Very great restaurant with an extremely friendly and personable owner. The food was very tasty.

Rarely have I experienced such unfriendly service. I think it was the boss, as condescending as the behavior was. When I ask about types of tea, I would like to have a sensible answer and no guesswork. I should have listened to my gut feeling and canceled the visit straight away. So I had a mediocre meal (chicken kebab) and a pomegranate tea that I didn't like. Overall, a disappointing evening at Safran

We entered the store without a reservation. First we were kindly directed to the table in the entrance area. We politely asked for another table. The owner came across as almost stroppy, what would we think of asking for another seat? It should be noted that the store was almost empty. The way we were denied another table was rude. Unfortunately I can't say anything about the food, it's a shame, we would have liked to take part in the culinary journey.

Very unfriendly reception and it was relative whether we stayed there or not

We were there today (Tuesday) on April 22nd. Eat there around 6:00 p.m. We were initially informed that only the large Persian buffet was available today. On request at a price of €26.90 per person. When we started, there was only one other family with around 10 people on site. The buffet was almost empty from the start. Even when the service staff were informed, something was refilled very slowly and only in very small quantities (e.g. 3 pieces of fried chicken). The selection of dishes was limited to about 4 Persian/Oriental dishes - you could look for or count the meat. The remaining dishes were German ready-made food - fries, croquettes, chicken nuggets, schnitzel, chicken wings. Otherwise spaghetti Bolognese and pasta and cheese casserole. The dessert buffet consisted of a few chocolate kisses, 3 slices of fruit, ice cream and a dried chocolate fountain. Payment is only possible in cash. All in all, the price is an absolute disgrace and absolutely not recommended.

It was very, very tasty here. I got a super delicious vegan dish. The food was delivered very quickly and everyone was happy. Info: no card payment possible

We ate there as a family on Good Friday and were very satisfied. All dishes were freshly prepared and served in small bowls. It was really delicious!!! Even our two girls, who are usually very picky, enjoyed it. It was a shame that payment was only possible in cash. We would have liked to order more, but we only had 100 EUR with us and the calculations stressed us out.

Terrific. It couldn't be better!

The food was delicious, varied, and reasonably priced. The atmosphere was pleasant.

I have never eaten rice so delicious!

We spontaneously became aware of the restaurant while on vacation. Unfortunately, the vegetarian dish we wanted to order was not available, which was a shame given the already small selection of vegetarian dishes. Plus point: some dishes are vegan upon request. Unfortunately it was also very cold in the store. The quality of the food we got was very good. Falafel plate and braised eggplant.

So, dear people, This is definitely not a real Persian restaurant, even if it says so. The operators are probably Afghans, who offer some similar dishes, but don't have the most typical Persian dishes on the menu. Many grill specialties were not available and the rice was served inadequately and untypically. In addition, the dishes were not prepared in the Persian style. For me as a Persian, the disappointment was great. When I explained these points to the waitress and the cashier (presumably the boss), I met with no understanding whatsoever. The unfriendly owner said this is Thale and not Hanover, Hamburg, Berlin. Actually, they shouldn't describe the restaurant as "Persian". Iranians shouldn't expect to get an authentic Chelo Kabab there, but for those guests unfamiliar with Persian cuisine, this might be O.K. be.

Freundliches Personal. Schnelle Bedienung. Preise sind noch ok. Das Essen ist für jemand der noch nicht original persisch gegessen hat sicher ok. Portionen sind überschaubar groß. Das Essen ist nett angerichtet.

My first visit to Safran and I am thrilled. The service is rustic, close to the guest and extremely humorous. The menu is clear and ranges from Persian starters to vegetarian and meat dishes. The desserts are nothing to sneeze at either. The dishes are lovingly prepared, the taste is very good and the portion size corresponds to the price. Anyone who is a guest in Thale can very well stop off at Safran. Highly recommended.

Very good food in a nice atmosphere.

The food was delicious, but I found the portion a bit too small and not enough meat for the price! The staff was friendly.

Friendly service and delicious food! Homemade falafel plate and worth recommending. No card payment possible

Very good restaurant, we had a buffet, large selection, very tasty and the price is absolutely justified at 26.50! Very nice staff.

Very, very tasty and I can only recommend it!! We were there spontaneously and even though the house was full, we managed to get a seat! We had to wait a little longer for the food, but that didn't matter at all to us at the moment, we were also informed about it...it's better to reserve in advance ... I'm always totally thrilled

An unusual restaurant with great quality and a selection of exceptional dishes! We've been there more often and have always been happy so far! Now there is even a buffet on some days, with a very good and extensive selection! I recommend just giving it a try!

We had dinner there last Sunday. Everything was very, very tasty, we can only recommend it. It's a shame that we don't have a restaurant like this in the Eifel.

Delicious food served by highly motivated employees.

Saffron - A culinary highlight in Thale If you are looking for an authentic and exquisite Persian restaurant, this is it Safran in Thale is the perfect choice. The restaurant offers an impressive selection of traditional Persian dishes, prepared with the utmost care and attention to detail. Ambiance and atmosphere: The stylish and cozy ambience of Safran invites you to linger. The tasteful furnishings and warm lighting create a welcoming atmosphere that is perfect for a romantic dinner or a social gathering with friends. Food and Drinks: Safran's menu is a true feast for the senses. From succulent kebabs to aromatic rice dishes to delicious appetizers like hummus, each dish is a masterpiece of Persian cuisine. Particularly noteworthy is the use of fresh and high-quality ingredients, which perfectly bring out the authentic taste of Persian cuisine. The wine list offers a fine selection of wines that go perfectly with the dishes. Service: The service at Safran is first class. The friendly and attentive staff ensures that every visit is an unforgettable experience. The employees are always ready to make recommendations and respond to individual requests. Conclusion: Saffron is a must for all lovers of Persian cuisine. Here you can experience culinary delights at the highest level in a pleasant and inviting atmosphere. A visit to this restaurant will definitely delight you and offer you an unforgettable taste experience.

Mega tasty and completely authentic

Super tasty food and fast service.

Very tasty food, nice atmosphere and friendly service. We'd love to come back.

Wir hatten reserviert auf 18.30 Uhr und waren 18.36 Uhr da. Zunächst gab es eine Diskussion, dass wir auf 18.00 Uhr bestellt hätten, was nicht stimmte. Wir haben zu Hause nocheinmal nachgeschaut, da wir uns dann auch nicht mehr sicher waren. Aber wir wurden für diese angehängte Nachlässigkeit sofort abgestraft. Ein ungemütliches Tischchen im Eingangsbereich mit Blick auf die Küche. Später kamen noch einige Gäste, es war der Hundebereich. Auf das Essen haben wir eine Stunde gewartet. Die späteren Gäste hatten selbstverständlich zuerst ihr Essen. Das Essen war gut, keine Frage, deshalb 3 Punkte. Nur geht man so nicht mit Gästen um. Nocheinmal sicher nicht.

Danger! Doesn't close at 10pm!!!! NO more food after 8 p.m.

The food tastes like German only with more spice and is far too expensive. “Card payment not possible” you are greeted with a sign like this on the door and nowhere on the website does it say that card payment is not possible. The service is very bad, the waiters are very rude and comment on everything you do (for us it was our hairstyles) and give their personal opinion. Some comments really could have been avoided. That also ruined the ambience because while you were eating you were constantly afraid that the waiter would come and make a stupid comment about your lifestyle.

Food tastes good, some extras were way too expensive! 15 grams for a hot sauce €1.95 and €5.50 for a bread not at all crispy tastes like frozen & microwave. Sorry, unfortunately never again.

Very tasty food. It tasted very good. Can only be recommended.

I love Persian cuisine since I was in this restaurant. I always enjoy coming back to eat. After a beautiful day in the mountains, I enjoy food at one of my favorite restaurants.

The food was delicious, just as I imagined. We don't have Persian food on every corner. The service was friendly, but couldn't explain much about the food, although you had the impression that he spoke and understood German well. We were there on vacation and when we are in the area again, we would like to go there again.

Very tasty food (both vegan) and nice service. We would love to come back after our next hike in the Harz Mountains. :)

We really like it there. Food is delicious and the boss is friendly and funny

We were surprised...inconspicuous at first, the interior was simply furnished...but the food was delicious...always a pleasure!!

A nicely decorated restaurant with friendly and humorous staff and very good food, from starters to dessert.

Food and service is okay, nothing exceptional, price is too much for the quality

A spontaneous visit was made possible and we were served delicious and quick meals. A clear recommendation.

The service was good, the food reminded me more of a canteen, only a little spicier. The quantities are perfect for gastrectomy patients, but for me it's more of a snack. The prices are inappropriate for the quantities. All in all, I wouldn't eat there again.

Were here on vacation in the evening. Is a small but fine restaurant with great Persian cuisine. The food was perfect. Great in terms of taste and size (I have to get into the habit of taking photos 🙈). There were even 2 side dishes, saffron rice + potato wedges, although the menu said either or. It was a really nice and round evening.

Very nice reception. Read the menu twice because there are only Persian dishes. We had different dishes at the table and were more than pleasantly surprised 👍

I had the great pleasure of visiting Safran Persian Restaurant and all I can say is that it was a true culinary experience! As soon as you enter the restaurant you are greeted by a warm, oriental ambience that immediately transports you to Persia. The decor is stylish and the atmosphere is extremely inviting. The food is simply fantastic. The menu offers a diverse selection of traditional Persian dishes, all prepared with great attention to detail. I ordered the chicken kebab and it was cooked perfectly - tender, juicy and full of flavor. The starters were also excellent, especially the Kashk-e-Bademjan (eggplant) and the fresh herbs. What really makes this restaurant special is the attentive and friendly service. The service was extremely courteous and gave us great knowledge of Persian cuisine. The recommendations were excellent and you can feel that passion is put into the work here. The prices are also more than fair for the quality of the food. Anyone looking for an authentic Persian dining experience should definitely pay Safran a visit. Everything is just right here – from the food to the service to the atmosphere. I'm already looking forward to my next visit!

Very nice little restaurant. The food was very filling and super tasty. If we are in the area again we will definitely come back

Very unfriendly service - we had the feeling that we were more of a disturbance at the end of the day than that we were welcome as guests. - even though we called and asked for a reservation. We then took the mixed plate x6 and paid 23 euros per person. Tourist trap.

We ate here last week, we chose the grill plate for 2 people and it was just right. Very good food and, as expected, tasted great. The sauce we ordered wasn't an issue either. We would love to come back next time we visit Thale. Thanks for the courteous service.