Excellent Persian food in Inglewood!
Arch is a new (Jan 2013), family-run authentic Persian restaurant on 9th ave. This is not another falafel joint on the corner. Arch serves some of the expected Persian standards- shish, etc.- but has a diverse menu including lots of vegetarian options. The food is exceptionally well prepared, healthy, and subtly spiced to perfection.
My personal favourite was the rich and flavourful pomegranate stew with saffron rice- it's one of the best dishes I've had anywhere in Calgary in a long time. Potentially ordinary appetizers like the eggplant with lavash and the falafel (6 perfect falafel each served on a tomato slice) rise way above the standard.
Appetizers are around $10 and mains run $15-25. The portions are just right and the prices are justified given the quality of the food. They also have a short but excellent selection of wines by the glass or bottle as well as a full bar.
The service is warm, friendly and attentive, and the room is a well appointed large space with decor direct from the Middle East.
Finish with the saffron tea and leave happy. This place represents Persian food done right and is a major addition to Calgary's food scene.