A vibrant Persian-Mediterranean meze house where the Black Sea Corn Bread quietly steals the entire menu.
By Tony Abraham
VisitedJuly 28, 2025
CuisinePersian-Mediterranean
NeighborhoodSomerville
Sarma is an acclaimed Persian-Mediterranean restaurant in Somerville, just outside Boston, known for its meze-style dining and innovative small plates. We came specifically to test the breadth of that menu — and one bread, in particular, refused to leave our memory.
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Appetizer
Black Sea Corn Bread
The Black Sea Corn Bread is an absolute standout, offering a truly unique and memorable culinary experience. From the first bite, it's clear this isn't your average cornbread; it transcends expectations, feeling more like a flavorful pancake or a delicate cake.
What truly elevates this dish is the masterful combination of feta and honey. These ingredients don't just complement the corn bread; they definitely elevate it, infusing it with a complexity that is both surprising and utterly delicious. The texture is a dream: super light and moist, with just the right amount of sweetness. And for an added textural delight, the crispy edges provide a perfect contrast to the soft interior.
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Appetizer
Avocado Muhammara
Prepare for pure flavor ecstasy from the very first bite of the Avocado Muhammara. This isn't just a dip; it's an experience rich with a lot of textures that keep your palate engaged.
What makes this dish truly exceptional is the perfect blend of spices that beautifully complements the creamy avocado. It's easily one of the better dips I've had. The addition of pistachios introduces a delightful crisp element, while the creamy burrata elevates the dish to a whole new level of indulgence. The subtle sweetness imparted by the spice sauce adds another layer of complexity.
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Main Course
Tunisian Brik Tacos
The Tunisian Brik Tacos are an overall awesome dish that truly delivers on flavor and texture. From the first bite, a lot of flavors burst forth, and what's remarkable is how the layers keep adding with every subsequent bite.
You can definitely taste the tuna, but it's expertly prepared so it doesn't have that raw, fishy texture often associated with it. A subtle tinch of heat elevates the dish and provides that much-needed complex flavor profile. The crispy fried taco shell provides a satisfying crunch, and the spicy aioli works perfectly with the tuna, tying all the flavors together seamlessly.
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Side Dish
Brussels Sprouts Bravas
The Brussels Sprouts Bravas dish is a truly great roasted brussels sprouts option. The sprouts are cooked to perfection, achieving that ideal tenderness with a slight char that brings out their natural flavor.
While the sprouts themselves are excellent, the sauce is undeniably the star, perfectly complemented by the aioli which adds a welcome texture. My only minor gripe is that the sprouts are a bit salty for my taste, but this is a small point. The croutons provide an extra crunchy element, enhancing the overall textural experience.
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Dessert
Mango Tres Leches
The Mango Tres Leches is a truly delightful dessert. From the first bite, the vibrant flavors of strawberry and the satisfying crunch of pistachios dominate, setting a high bar for what's to come.
This is a great Tres Leches cake — packed with flavor and super moist. The cake and pudding boast a great consistency, creating a harmonious texture that makes each spoonful a pleasure.
From the Bar
Liquid Notes
Order
Velvet Sun
Exceptionally refreshing, fruity (pineapple and elderflower) with a subtle taste of cardamom. You don't really taste the vodka — dangerously smooth and enjoyable.
Order
Into the Sea
A take on an Old Fashioned. Madeira and green mango aren't immediately apparent, but the drink is characterized by a pleasant orange aroma and a subtle aftertaste of orange with a slight spice blend. A good complex option.
The Verdict
Dish Deconstructed
A four-pillar framework. One to five.
First Bite
4
/ 5
Flavor Journey
4
/ 5
Technical Execution
3
/ 5
Order Again
4
/ 5
Honestly Speaking
The Black Sea Corn Bread is essential. The Avocado Muhammara and Tunisian Brik Tacos are not far behind.