The Great Persian Invasion (Except It Was Totally Chill) How Many Iranians Are There in LA, Anyway?
Ever craved a delicious saffron chicken kebab while cruising down Wilshire Boulevard and stumbled upon a store sign in Farsi? Welcome to Los Angeles, home to the largest concentration of Iranians outside of Iran itself. That's right, folks, the City of Angels has been delightfully invaded by a wave of awesomeness (minus the whole conquering thing).
But seriously, how many Iranians are we talking about here? Buckle up, because estimates range from a casual 500,000 to a whopping 700,000. That's a whole lotta people who brought their culture, cuisine, and undeniable sense of style with them.
So, Where Did All These Iranians Come From?
Los Angeles has been a magnet for Iranian immigrants for decades. Some folks arrived after the 1979 revolution, seeking a safe haven. Others came later, drawn by the promise of opportunity and that sweet, sweet California sunshine. The result? A thriving Iranian community that's as diverse as it is delicious (seriously, have you tried tahdig?).
Fun Fact: There's even a neighborhood in Westwood nicknamed "Tehrangeles" – a delightful portmanteau of Tehran and Los Angeles. It's basically ground zero for all things Iranian, from restaurants to shops to that friendly guy selling carpets on the corner (pro tip: bargaining is expected).
From Beverly Hills to Westwood: The Iranian Diaspora Spreads Its Wings (and Hummus)
While Westwood might be the epicenter of Iranian culture in LA, don't be surprised to find pockets of Persian paradise throughout the city. Beverly Hills, Bel-Air, and Brentwood all have a significant Iranian population, adding a touch of international flair to these already glamorous neighborhoods.
Imagine this: you're strolling down Rodeo Drive, dodging Ferraris and celebrities, and then BAM! You stumble upon a hidden gem of a bakery serving up the most amazing pistachio baklava you've ever tasted. That's the beauty of LA's Iranian diaspora – it's a delightful surprise around every corner.
So next time you're in LA, keep your eyes peeled (and your stomach rumbling) for a taste of Persia. You won't regret it!
