Nowruz 1405

Nowruz, which means "new day," is the Persian New Year and is celebrated on the vernal equinox, usually on March 21st. This year, in Chicago, it’s around 9:45 AM on Friday, March 20th. Celebrated by people of various ethnicities and religions for more than 3000 years, including Iranians, Kurds, Tajiks, Afghans, and Zoroastrian, it is a joyous occasion that marks the beginning of spring.

While we acknowledge that it is not currently a joyous occasion for many, as a restaurant whose menu is heavily influenced by dishes and flavors of dishes found throughout modern Iran, we find it important to continue to honor our roots in the foods traditionally and historically consumed during this time. Our tasting menu will spotlight these foods from March 20th through March 28th. This is an occasion to honor one's roots, preserve traditions, and pass them on to the next generation. In many ways, Nowruz is a celebration of the human spirit, resilience, and optimism in the face of adversity. Traditions can always be changed between generations, and this is one we’re choosing to continue.

Nowruz is a time for families to come together, exchange gifts, and share traditional meals. It is also a time for cleaning and decluttering, as well as setting new goals for the year ahead. Many people prepare a Haft-Seen table, which is a display of seven symbolic items that start with the letter "S" in Persian. Those seven items are sabzeh (sprouts), samanu (wheat germ pudding), senjed (oleaster), serkeh (vinegar), seeb (garlic), and somagh (sumac.) Sekkeh (coins), sombol (hyacinth), and sowat (clock) are sometimes included as well or used to replace some of the other items. A Haft-Seen table also typically includes a mirror, candles, painted eggs, goldfish, traditional Persian confections, and a book of wisdom. You’ll find most of those items on the haftseen at Maman Zari.

While our hearts are heavy, our doors are open to welcome in those who want to share a special meal.