In the realm of legendary places, some names are more than just stories—they are real cities with rich histories. One such city is Samarkand, an ancient and vibrant center located in Central Asia. Now the third-largest city in Uzbekistan, Samarkand’s history stretches back to around 700 BCE, with evidence of settlements dating back 40,000 years.
Historically, Samarkand has played a crucial role as a crossroads of cultures and civilizations. The city thrived due to its strategic location on the Silk Road, which connected East and West. Over centuries, conquerors like Alexander the Great, Genghis Khan, and the Russians left their mark, but Samarkand remained a cultural and economic hub. Figures like Omar Khayyam and Timur (Tamerlane) contributed to the city’s intellectual and artistic vibrancy, with Timur famously rebuilding Samarkand into a capital of grandeur.
Not only was Samarkand renowned for its history and architecture, but it also gained fame for its cuisine, which blends flavors from diverse cultures that passed through the region.
Alons Halal Grill: Bringing Uzbek Flavors to the Hudson Valley
In Highland, New York, the Murtazaev family is introducing the Hudson Valley to the flavors of Samarkand and Uzbekistan. In September 2024, Sobir and Nayoba Murtazaev opened Alons Halal Grill, offering authentic Uzbek dishes that reflect their heritage. Having emigrated from Samarkand in 2008, the couple wanted to bring the tastes of their homeland to their new community.
“We believe Uzbek cuisine, especially from Samarkand, is something people will love,” Sobir says. He attributes the city’s cuisine’s distinctiveness to its history and the quality of local ingredients. The Murtazaevs source many of their ingredients directly from Uzbekistan, including spices, rice, chickpeas, and golden raisins. Local vegetables and meats are also key components, with meat sourced from a halal butcher, which the couple says ensures quality and respect for the animals.
The Unique Flavors of Samarkand
Uzbek cuisine is known for its robust flavors, particularly the heavy use of cumin, which Sobir and Nayoba emphasize in their cooking. “We’re always smelling and tasting the cumin to make sure it’s the right one,” Sobir explains. This careful attention to quality is key to the authenticity of their dishes. They also pride themselves on offering healthy, organic local produce to complement their imported ingredients.
The Murtazaevs’ commitment to quality extends to their meat sourcing. As they explain, halal meat is prepared with care and in accordance with ethical principles, ensuring that the food they serve is both nutritious and prepared in a manner that respects the animals.
The Journey to Opening Alons Halal Grill
The Murtazaevs’ path to owning a restaurant in the U.S. was unplanned. In their home country, Sobir was studying law, and Nayoba was pursuing a career in cosmetology. However, in 2008, they won the U.S. green card lottery, an event that led them to emigrate to the United States. “It was a big surprise for us,” says Nayoba. “We saw it as a great opportunity and decided to take it.”
The Murtazaevs settled in the Hudson Valley and began building their new lives. They initially worked in hospitality, with Nayoba serving as a chef and Sobir managing buffets at Mohonk Mountain House. They also ran a food truck for several years. Over time, their passion for sharing their culture’s food grew, and they decided to open their own restaurant.
“We noticed that there weren’t any Uzbek restaurants in the Hudson Valley,” Sobir says. “We wanted to bring this amazing cuisine here.” Their goal is to offer something unique to the local community while introducing the flavors of Uzbekistan.
The Cultural Appeal of Uzbek Cuisine
Uzbek cuisine stands out from other Central Asian foods due to its emphasis on hearty, flavorful dishes that reflect the diverse influences of the region. The food often includes ingredients like rice, lamb, and vegetables, all prepared with distinct spices and flavors. The most famous dishes include pilaf (plov), skewered meats (shashlik), and various breads. The Murtazaevs are excited to share these dishes, as well as the famous Samarkand flatbread that is said to be the best in the world.
In addition to the restaurant, Sobir and Nayoba continue to cherish their Uzbek roots, making annual trips back to Uzbekistan whenever possible. Despite the challenges of adapting to life in the U.S. and raising three young children, the couple has remained dedicated to their mission of introducing their homeland’s cuisine to their new community.
Conclusion
Alons Halal Grill is more than just a restaurant; it’s a cultural bridge that connects the Hudson Valley with the rich culinary traditions of Samarkand. The Murtazaevs’ dedication to quality and authenticity ensures that diners not only enjoy delicious food but also gain a taste of the vibrant history and culture of Uzbekistan.
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