I have just returned home sated after 3 1/2 hours at Momani's with family and friends. The restaurant is in a circa 1889 townhouse, beautifully restored and overlooking the Brisbane River. The decor is quite formal, featuring marble fireplaces and crystal chandeliers and white table linen, however, the ambience is friendly and welcoming. The background music is pleasant and where it should be; in the background.

We decided to share the food in the Persian tradition, starting with a platter of olives and a quatrain of dips. The olives had various marinades including lemon, chilli, garlic and pomegranate, while dips comprised the classic hummus, tzatziki, baba ghanoush and muhamara. All were wonderful making it hard to choose a favourite. I definitely suggest ordering the platter and trying the lot.

One of the specials tonight was a slow-cooked shoulder of lamb with crispy potatoes. The lamb was succulent and fell apart under the fork. All agreed it was outstanding, as were Momani's koftas, made with yellow lentils and beef in a light tomato-based sauce.

I love cauliflower, so the standout dish for me was Zahra, fried cauliflower dusted with cumin, served with tahini sauce. It comes as a side but I would gladly eat it as a main course.

We all ended with dessert tasting plates of four ice creams with traditional cakes. My favourite ice cream was pistachio. The ice cream accompanied baklava, olive cake and a jaffa mousse which perfectly ended our feast.

The staff are friendly, efficient and attentive, without hovering. Our water glasses never emptied and fresh drinks offered as we emptied our glasses. The beverage list accommodates all tastes.

A delightful touch is Momani visiting each table to ensure all has gone well. I confidently recommend Momani's to anyone.