Bukhara Grill (New York)

My friend who recommended Bukhara (Midtown Manhattan) said it was the only place he knew in the US that prepares Sikandari Raan well. And what a delightful dish that was!

Sikandari Raan is a richly marinated leg of lamb baked in a Tandoor oven. Wow! Was it one of the tenderest meats I've eaten! Quite memorable also was the Chicken Malai appetizer (could very well have been an entrée) which brought a fresh and crisp flavor profile to plump and juicy chicken breast cubes. And to finish off, the Jamun-e-Gul was delectable as it was sweet enough but not overpowering as most places tend to make it.

Other than the Raan and the Makki Ki Roti (corn roti which was a first for me!) the menu at Bukhara is fairly standard Indian fare for a US restaurant. Portions are generous and as such, I recommend going in a group of at least 4 to share and try the variety.

The ambiance at Bhukara is relaxed and comfortable. If the place is full, I'd expect it to be quite noisy. Unless you get the pleasure of sitting close to some banker who forgot he's no longer at the center of his little universe and decides to discuss his wheelings and dealings privately with his mates for everyone in the restaurant to hear.