One of the main attractions was the German-style restaurant located within the store, where shoppers could enjoy Western delicacies such as sausages and potato salad with mayonnaise. It wasn’t just about the shopping; it was about the experience, the immersion in a different, more modern world. This was a lifestyle that was starkly different from the traditional Iranian way of life, and the excitement it generated was palpable.
For children, the escalator, a novelty at the time, was a source of endless amusement. They would ride it repeatedly, their laughter and joy filling the store with an infectious energy. For many Iranians, Ferdowsi Chain Store wasn’t just a place to buy goods; it was a symbol of progress, a glimpse into a modern future that was full of possibilities