TEHRAN – Located along the southern coast of Iran’s Qeshm Island, Sohaili Village has carved out a reputation as one of the Persian Gulf’s premier destinations for culinary tourism.

Far more than just a coastal stopover, Sohaili is a vibrant hub where authentic southern Iranian flavors meet the rhythms of the sea, creating a gastronomic experience that is as unforgettable as the scenery.

A taste of the sea, fresh from the source

What sets Sohaili apart on Iran’s largest island isn’t just its panoramic views of the Persian Gulf –it’s the village’s devotion to fresh, locally sourced seafood. Each morning, the village awakens to the return of fishing boats laden with the day’s catch. These treasures of the sea ­­­– plump shrimp, firm white fish, and a range of other marine delicacies–go straight from the docks to the kitchens of family-run restaurants lining the coast.

Here, freshness isn’t a luxury; it’s a daily ritual. The result is a menu rich in traditional Southern Iranian seafood dishes, infused with the warmth of home cooking and the legacy of generations who have lived in harmony with the sea.

Seaside dining

Dining in Sohaili has long been a delight for the tiny village. Open-air seaside restaurants provide not only a feast for the taste buds but also for the senses. Visitors enjoy their meals against the backdrop of rolling waves, rustling palm trees, and the salty scent of the ocean breeze. Whether it's a sunset dinner of grilled fish or a midday plate of spicy shrimp stew, each meal becomes part of a larger memory–the kind only a truly special destination can offer.

Culinary tourism fueling local prosperity

Sohaili’s rise as a culinary tourism hotspot has also brought meaningful economic benefits to the local community. The village’s traditional lifestyle–once centered around fishing and handicrafts–has been revitalized by the influx of visitors. Small restaurant owners, spice merchants, and artisans have found new opportunities as tourists explore local bazaars, picking up everything from handmade souvenirs to rare southern spices.

This blend of gastronomy and grassroots tourism has helped establish Sohaili not only as a culinary treasure but also as a model for sustainable rural tourism in the region.

When to visit: catching the best of Sohaili

For those planning a trip, the ideal time to visit Sohaili is during autumn and winter. The weather is comfortably mild, and the seafood harvest is at its peak, offering the widest variety of fresh catch. Whether you're a food lover, a cultural explorer, or simply someone in search of coastal serenity, these seasons promise an enriched experience.

AM