Tabriz has its own distinct Azeri cuisine, noticeably different from the food of Tehran or central Iran. The signature dish is koofteh Tabrizi, a giant stuffed meatball served in broth. Bonab kebab — thick, juicy ground-lamb skewers from the nearby town of Bonab — is another regional favourite, as is dizi sangaki and the sour-cherry pilaf called albaloo polo.
For traditional food in atmospheric surroundings, head to restaurants in restored Qajar houses in the old quarter. For everyday eating, the cafes and kebab houses along Tarbiat Street and around Sa'at Square offer good food at low prices. Vegetarians will find ash (thick herb-and-bean soup) and a range of mezze options; fully vegetarian restaurants are uncommon but most places will adapt a dish.