Introduction to Samad Café
Samad Café, which is near Love Field in West Dallas, doesn’t have a website. It is tucked away inside what looks from the street like a car repair shop — CBS News reports that the cafe owner used to run it, too. The cafe is the kind of place diners find only if they know it’s there. On April 4, 2025, one viral video on TikTok changed that.
The Viral Video
Under the name Sam’s POV, a content creator made a video featuring Samad’s Café that shows owner Samad Afghanipour serving him marinated lamb shank in a bowl of broth, alongside Persian rice, white rice, and lavash flatbread. Afghanipour’s hospitality, as he runs the cafe alone, is what many viewers commented on most — the POV shot shows him returning to the table to offer the diner more food multiple times. “Anything you want, I bring it,” he says. Sam’s POV appears to be the only diner in the restaurant. The video has amassed 13 million views, 2 million likes, and over 9,000 comments.
Owner’s Background
Afghanipour immigrated from Iran in 1982, WFAA reports. He opened his cafe in 1989, where he is the chef-owner and handles all the other operational duties as well — it was a one-man show until the viral video started drawing people in. Now, his family members are helping him meet the new demand, his son, Amir Bagshahi, told WFAA.
The Impact of the Viral Video
Following the visit, Sam’s POV returned to shoot another video just shy of a week later. His followers made numerous donations to support Afghanipour and his cafe — somewhere in the $3,000 range, which the content creator offered to Afghanipour in cash. Afghanipour, who was clearly overwhelmed by the money, first tried to insist Sam keep it. Ultimately, he decided to put it in a bin on the counter where he puts his tips — all of which he says he donates. The cafe owner then takes Sam behind the counter to show him a cookie jar full of cash collected from tips that Afghanipour says he donates to the those in need.
A Look into the Café’s Menu
At the end of the video, Sam sits down to film a POV of himself eating lunch for the day — a chicken kebab with the yogurt and cucumber that Afghanipour recommends.
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Conclusion
The story of Samad Café is a heartwarming one, showcasing the power of social media in bringing attention to hidden gems. The café’s viral video not only brought in new customers but also highlighted the owner’s kindness and generosity. As the café continues to grow in popularity, it’s essential to remember the values that made it special in the first place.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Where is Samad Café located?
Samad Café is located near Love Field in West Dallas.
Q: What is the café famous for?
The café is famous for its Persian cuisine, particularly its marinated lamb shank and chicken kebab.
Q: Who is the owner of the café?
The owner of the café is Samad Afghanipour, who immigrated from Iran in 1982.
Q: How did the café become popular?
The café became popular after a viral video on TikTok showcased its food and the owner’s hospitality.
Q: Can I donate to the café?
Yes, you can donate to the café by visiting and leaving a tip, which the owner donates to those in need.
