Babak Zanjani’s Luxury Pastry Cafe Opens in West Tehran; Reactions to a Remarkable Return
Babak Zanjani and Electric Taxis
Another major part of Zanjani’s post-prison business image has been his association with plans involving electric taxis in Iran.
Electric transportation has become an increasingly important topic in Tehran because of air pollution, traffic congestion and the country’s dependence on conventional vehicles.
The idea of introducing electric taxis therefore has an obvious appeal.
A modern electric taxi network could potentially reduce urban emissions, modernize public transportation and create a new business ecosystem around charging infrastructure, vehicle fleets and digital mobility services.
Zanjani’s reported involvement in such projects added another layer to his comeback.
The contrast is striking.
A businessman whose earlier career became synonymous with oil revenues was now being associated with electric mobility.
That transformation has contributed to the public fascination surrounding his return.
Babak Zanjani and Airline Plans
Aviation is another sector historically associated with Zanjani.
Before his arrest, his business empire had connections to aviation, including Qeshm Airlines.
His post-return economic plans have again included discussions around aviation and the possibility of launching or expanding airline operations.
This is particularly relevant because aviation is one of the most difficult industries to operate in Iran.
Aircraft procurement, maintenance, international insurance, spare parts, leasing, payment systems and sanctions all create enormous challenges.
Consequently, any announcement of a new Iranian airline attracts attention.
When the name attached to the project is Babak Zanjani, that attention becomes considerably greater.
What Is Sourinette VIP?
The name Sourinette VIP has quickly become one of the most searched terms connected to Zanjani’s latest commercial activity.
The venue has also been referred to as VIP Bakery or VIP Cafe in recent reports.
The establishment is described as a cafe-pastry shop in Shahrak-e Gharb, one of Tehran’s well-known western districts.
The reported location is in the Mahestan area.
The use of the VIP name is particularly interesting because the brand has historical associations with Zanjani’s business network. A recent report notes that an older VIP property in Shahrak-e Gharb had previously been associated with members of Zanjani’s family.
As a result, the opening is not necessarily being perceived as an entirely new brand appearing out of nowhere.
Instead, some observers see it as a continuation or revival of a commercial identity associated with the Zanjani business network.
August 23, 2026 | 8:58 pm
