Bukhara Grill In NYC Closed During Pandemic. Ridgewood Has A Sequel

RIDGEWOOD, NJ — A popular Indian restaurant, Bukhara Grill in New York City, closed during the pandemic after being open since 1999, although it continued catering. Now, the owner's son has opened a version in Ridgewood, and recently announced "many more changes" on the way.

"My father was the co-owner of the famous Bukhara Grill located in NYC for over 20 years," wrote Akshay Jhanjee earlier this year, announcing the new Bukhara Grill: Indian Spice Rave by Raja Jhanjee.

"During his time there, he had many great opportunities hosting some of the biggest names from around the globe," he wrote. "Bukhara Grill is forever known for their authentic cuisine and outstanding service. Bukhara Grill NYC closed in 2020 due to the global pandemic and was one of the hardest things on my dad."

He added, "I made a promise that I did not want the story to end the way it did! I had to finish the story."

Replaced Another Popular Eatery

Akshay Jhanjee opened the new restaurant at 37 Chestnut St. in Ridgewood, the site of the former Delhi Accent.

Now, the North Indian restaurant serves up "signature specialties from the northwest frontier of India" including Tandoor grilled kebabs and the "famous" Dal Bukhara.

It also includes some signature dishes from the former Accent menu, said Jhanjee's post.this year.

"I promise to continue the legacy and maintain the same standards of food and service that were set by the OGBG!" wrote the younger Jhanjee.

Last month, he said in an Aug. 14 social media post, "We've just added brand new tables to our Ridgewood location. Keep an eye out for many more changes coming to Bukhara Grill, Ridgewood. We can't wait to share them with you."

NYC Makes A Comeback

Meanwhile, the original eatery plans to make a "triumphant return."

In June, they announced on social media, "The rumors are true! Bukhara Grill by Raja Jhanjee is making a triumphant return to the concrete jungle where it all began in 1999. We are thrilled to announce our comeback to NYC very soon! The New Bukhara Grill, located at 120 East 39th Street, elegantly pays homage to the iconic original Bukhara Grill while infusing a modern flair."

They said they'll announce an opening date later this summer. Follow them here.