This morning we woke up at Mashad station, waiting for the all clear to board the Iranin train. Mrs G and I ventured out away from the group to an amazing restaurant G had found in a book. Walking down into the entrance it was as if we were entering a museum, so many antiques, old radio’s, beautiful historic paintings, rugs galore and beautiful wooden furniture that looked ancient itself. We were greeted with big smiles whom were welcoming us into the restaurant, they seated us by a water fountain in the middle of the room. The elderly man spoke good english and explained the history of the restaurant, how his grandfather gave it to his father and father giving it to him. Showing us signatures of famous people back in the day that use to dine there and explaining that a section of the restaurant was only for Shar and guests. It was incredible, we wanted to stay there all day. They were so friendly and wanted to know more about us. We were given rose tea which I absolutely adored, drinking four cups of it, I could have just had that for lunch! The man brought out a traditional Iranian meal that consists of, lamb, potato, turmeric, cinnamon, chickpeas, kidney beans and garlic in a soup. The left overs got mashed up into a dip with the delicious thin pitta bread that we demolished. Ending with a home made sweet I’m unsure of it was all very tasty. We really enjoyed seeing this hidden museum restaurant!

Saying goodbye and writing something thoughtful in the guest book, we made our way back to the train. Just in time for departure, we were greeted on board by our cabin attendant and photographers. They were all handing us roses and offering us a non alcoholic drink. Another warm welcome!

All our luggage had been transferred on board the new train and we left the station to head towards Yazd. Now for the first night testing out the one lavatory per 16 passengers situation! Good luck to us!