Afghani Food International Market & Restaurant, located at 5440 Clairemont Mesa Blvd in San Diego, has garnered rave reviews for its authentic Afghan cuisine and exceptional customer service. Diners consistently praise the restaurant for its hospitable atmosphere and delicious offerings, making it a go-to spot for both casual meals and catered events. Customers like Ali Hamidy highlight the restaurant’s ability to accommodate picky eaters, with dishes that please families and large groups alike. The lamb seekh and mantu impress with flavor and freshness, while their signature dishes like the tender lamb shank, pulao, and aromatic basmati rice create a comforting culinary experience. The attention to detail in preparing meals, coupled with the warm and attentive service from the owner and staff, adds to the overall satisfaction. With a clean, inviting ambiance and the ability to host special events like birthdays, Afghani Food International shines as a versatile dining destination. The mention of delightful Afghan desserts and unique pastries further elevates its appeal. Whether you're dining in, taking out, or organizing a party, this restaurant promises a memorable culinary journey. Overall, Afghani Food International is a hidden gem that undeniably elevates the San Diego food scene.
Amenities and More
Accessibility
Has wheelchair-accessible car park
Has wheelchair-accessible entrance
Has wheelchair-accessible seating
Service options
Offers kerbside pickup
Has no-contact delivery
Offers delivery
Offers takeaway
Serves dine-in
Popular for
Popular for lunch
Popular for dinner
Good for solo dining
Offerings
Serves comfort food
Serves healthy options
Quick bite
Serves small plates
Dining options
Serves lunch
Serves dinner
Has catering
Serves dessert
Amenities
Has toilet
Atmosphere
Casual
Payments
Accepts credit cards
Accepts debit cards
Accepts NFC mobile payments
Credit cards
Children
Good for kids
Parking
Free parking lot
Plenty of parking
Photos
Reviews For Afghani Food International Market & Restaurant
Ali Hamidy
Jun 3,2025
Honestly, the best afghan food you can get in San Diego. Taste very authentic and delicious. First time I came here with my family and my kids love it (and they are very picky eaters) Delicious food, and best customer service you can get when it comes to this type of cuisine. The servers are extremely kind and willing to accommodate anything necessary to ensure a pleasant experience. Since I have been there, I regularly cater food from here for my family parties and every Friday I cater food from here for my employees and staff- they can’t get enough of it. I truly respect a place that not only has amazing food, but goes above and beyond in regards to customer service. They also sell pastries and other unique afghan desserts to go. I highly recommend this restaurant for eating in, to go or even large catering. The owner has an extensive experience in the industry and knows what he is doing. Check it out, you won’t regret it. Thank you again , I will see you soon lol.
Meagan Cleary
May 7,2025
Went to dinner with girlfriends before strolling neighborhood Holiday lights. We had an amazing time and left full, happy, and with leftovers! Service was fantastic and we received personalized recommendations. Everything was made fresh to order from the chai green tea to our entrees.
Phoi Tiet
Apr 24,2025
The food and service here were phenomenal! My favorites were the lamb seekh and the mantu. Lots of choices on sauce but the chutney was my go to. The owner was super sweet and attentive, making the dining experience very wholesome. We will definitely return here :)
Nabil B
Apr 6,2025
Great chill place to grab some halal food. Pulao was excellent. Lamb shank had meat that fell off the bone as soon as I moved it, so you can imagine how tender and juicy it was. The rice was also super buttery and went well with sweetness of the raisins. Also the wait time for our food was very quick, so much that my family was in disbelief that they cooked food this good in such a short time. Definitely a great place to eat for any Muslim families looking to eat out together.
Healthy Eating
Apr 2,2025
This us the best restaurant in San Diego county for these reasons. 1. The food is delicious. 2. The restaurant is very nice and clean and beautiful. 3. The staff are very friendly and professional. 5. The best restaurant to celebrate your birthdays, anniversaries, baby showers. Any other family have events. They make your event memorable. I recently celebrated my husband’s 50th birthday and they did an amazing job. The restaurant is set up for parties. It has a DJ it has decoration and buffet set up. Book your next event here and you will not regret. 10/10
Jawid Habib
Mar 30,2025
Walking into Afghan Restaurant, I wasn’t sure what to expect. Nestled right next door to “Aladdin” with its Mediterranean flair, this gem is transforming from its grocery market roots into a culinary haven. It may not boast the polished ambience of more established spots, but let me tell you—this place is all heart and flavor. From the moment Laila greeted us with a smile that could light up the room, I knew we were in for something special. I’ve been a San Diego local my whole life, witnessing the ebb and flow of Afghan cuisine in our vibrant city for over three decades. Yet, dining here felt like a revelation. The dedication to authenticity and culinary craftsmanship is evident in every bite. The mantu—a dish that many restaurants shy away from due to its complexity—was simply sublime. The lamb skewer kebab melted in my mouth, its tenderness perfectly complemented by the aromatic qabuli palow rice. And the beef Chabli kebab? Just divine, with a spice blend that sings. This place is the very definition of a “hole in the wall” where the real measure of value isn’t in the decor but in the dishes that transport you straight to Afghanistan. Supporting local businesses is more important than ever, and when the food is this good, it’s a joy. I’ve already spread the word to family and friends and can’t wait to return. If you’re seeking an authentic Afghan dining experience, look no further. Afghan Restaurant is a testament to the love and legacy of Afghan cooking, and it’s right here in our backyard. A true hidden treasure.
Rola Barbakh
Mar 9,2025
I was there with a group of 5 on January 3, 2024 Review: I got the qabuli Palau, it was very good! Rice was flavorful but not over powering in spices, and the lamb shank was tender. My brother in law got the lamb seekh and loved it. Thre Mantu, chefs kiss, so good! The chutneys were tangy, slightly sweet not at all spicy (to me), and so very good. I also enjoyed the homemade yogurt. Oh and the potato bolani was so good too!! Overall I also enjoyed the apps more than the main dish but everything was amazing! I will be back for sure.
Paul O'Leary
Feb 15,2025
The food is so good. Very filling and delicious. We had the Lamb Seekh Quabli Palow and Chicken Shawarma salad. Also a 6 Piece Mantu as an appetizer. The chef who also served us is extremely kind. You can tell he is passionate about cooking and serving great food. This is our second time here and we'll be coming back more and more.
Reviews For Afghani Food International Market & Restaurant