In a city known for its suburban sprawl, Atlanta's Middle Eastern restaurant Delbar is a real treat – a friendly, lively gathering spot where closely spaced tables encourage camaraderie among diners. The newest location, which opened this week in upscale Uptown Buckhead, hopes to reach even more people with a 550-square-foot dining room, party rooms and a private room that leads to a patio for live entertainment.
Restaurateur and chef Fares Kargar worked with a design team from Archie Bolden and Atlanta-based Fathom Architecture on the interior design. Like his previous two locations (both recommended by Michelin), they prepped the space with natural-colored plaster, earthen tiles, and exposed beams, and added plenty of rustic wood and cascading greenery to encourage relaxation. The difference here is the intimacy of the main room.
Inspired by the Iranian landscape, Fathom structured it with a series of archways and long benches of planting. Archie Bolden provided organically shaped ceiling lights, handcrafted by Iranian artist Marjan Rad, which hung above banquet seating with vibrant velvet upholstery by Iranian designer Natasha Baradaran and Zak & Fox.
Photography: Andrew Thomas Lee
Photography: Andrew Thomas Lee
Photography: Andrew Thomas Lee
Photography: Andrew Thomas Lee
Photography: Andrew Thomas Lee
Photography: Andrew Thomas Lee
Photography: Andrew Thomas Lee
Photography: Andrew Thomas Lee
Like the lighting, Turkish company Lori Ceramic's artworks have an amorphous, living, breathing quality. An authentic Moroccan fountain is located at the entrance to the glass-enclosed winter garden.
“The main goal was to create a space that felt both intimate and luxurious while showcasing the rich cultural elements that define the Delbar brand,” says Kargar. “We wanted the design to transport guests to a timeless environment inspired by Middle Eastern architecture and hospitality with a modern, accessible touch.”
The highlight is the expansive bar next to the open kitchen, which is clad in pink plaster and clad in textured pink tiles.
“We worked with local and international artisans to source and create many of the decorative elements,” says Kargar. “The intricate tile work and custom light fixtures are examples of their incredible craftsmanship.”
A love letter to the influential mezze and barbecue that shaped Kargar's youth, Delbar translates to “heart, caught” in his native Farsi. The transportive design is inspired by his hometown of Gorgan, Iran.
www.delbaratl.com
