Helmand Palace -- 2424 Van Ness Avenue, San Francisco, CA

Helmand Palace is by far one of the most unique restaurants you will dine at. Featuring authentic Afghanistan cuisine, it appeals to globe trotting diners. Helmand refers to one of the most beautiful places in Afghanistan, it lies next to the Helmand River. The restaurant is cozy and the staff is attentive. Located off Van Ness Avenue, the restaurant is open daily at 5:30 pm and offers a full menu, sure to please everyone. 

Reviewers rave over the appetizers served here. The Aushak is ravioli is stuffed with scallions and leeks. Served with a mint yogurt dip. The Kaddo is baked pumpkin that is seasoned with sugar and topped with ground beef sauce. It is served with a yogurt garlic sauce. All tables are treated to fresh flatbread and variety of dips. There are also a variety of salads offered, try one with the Pomegranate dressing; a fruit celebrated in Afghanistan.

Lamb is a heavy staple in Afghanistan cuisine and here it is served up with flair. The Lawand is a whole leg of Lamb that is sautéed with tomatoes, garlic, onions, mushrooms, capers, cilantro, hot peppers and yogurt. It is served over a bed of challow rice and spinach. Be sure to try the Chowpan, half rack of lamb that is marinated with a blend of spices and grilled. It is served with challow rice and sautéed eggplant. For Vegetarians there are many entree items to choose from, such as the Kourma Challow. Green beans, cauliflower, carrots, potatoes, turnips are sautéed with spices and placed on a bed of spinach rice.

The Helmand Palace also offers a variety of drinks and cocktails. Be sure to save room for dessert. The Bucklawa is a flaky, homemade pastry that is baked with walnuts, pistachios, almonds, cinnamon and cloves. It is served with a honey caramel sauce.