Iconic NYC Restaurant Bukhara Grill Reopens in Ridgewood with Big Plans Ahead

the staff of the Ridgewood blog

Ridgewood NJ, a beloved Indian restaurant, Bukhara Grill, which first opened its doors in New York City in 1999, was forced to close during the pandemic. However, the legacy of this iconic eatery lives on as the owner’s son, Akshay Jhanjee, has launched a new version in Ridgewood, NJ, and promises even more exciting changes on the horizon.

“My father was the co-owner of the famous Bukhara Grill located in NYC for over 20 years,” Akshay Jhanjee shared earlier this year, introducing the new Ridgewood location, 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. Bukhara Grill is forever known for its authentic cuisine and outstanding service.”

Jhanjee reflected on the difficulties faced when the original NYC restaurant closed in 2020 due to the global pandemic, describing it as one of the hardest things for his father. Determined to carry on the family legacy, he said, “I made a promise that I did not want the story to end the way it did! I had to finish the story.”

Taking over the space at 37 Chestnut St. in Ridgewood, previously home to Delhi Accent, the new Bukhara Grill offers a menu rich in “signature specialties from the northwest frontier of India,” featuring dishes like Tandoor grilled kebabs and the “famous” Dal Bukhara. The restaurant also retains some favorite items from the former Accent menu, ensuring a blend of the old and new.

“I promise to continue the legacy and maintain the same standards of food and service that were set by the OGBG!” Jhanjee vowed.

In a recent social media post on August 14, Jhanjee announced, “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.”

Meanwhile, New Yorkers have something to look forward to as well. The original Bukhara Grill is set to make a comeback in Manhattan. In June, an announcement on social media teased, “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.”

With the Ridgewood location thriving and the original NYC spot poised for a grand return, Bukhara Grill is set to continue its legacy of delivering exceptional Indian cuisine to old fans and new patrons alike.