For dinner on our last night as Bucks County residents, we chose a well known and well established Russian restaurant. Wherever we live we will not be finding the concentration of Russian food and culture we have found in this area.
Samarkand has been around for over 10 years. We went there about 5 years ago and enjoyed most of our meal. We did not return simply because there were so many other places to try. Another place, Lava, became our favorite, but has sadly closed in the past year. I’m pretty sure that Samarkand is technically an Uzbeki restaurant, but with many dishes in common with most of the various Russian restaurants that we have visited.
You have to pay for the bread here, but the value is outstanding. This Lepeshka came out steaming hot and had great texture and taste. $3.50.I have found many outstanding eggplant dishes in all of the Russian supermarkets and restaurants. This Registran is roasted slices topped with fresh minced tomato-garlic sauce. Amazing taste, but I had to remove the tough skin. Barb called me a wimp and enjoyed eating the skin.We also enjoyed this Vostochny which had roasted eggplant, plum tomatoes, and green and yellow bell peppers, garnished with fresh dill, cilantro and minced garlic. Both eggplant dishes were listed as salads.$12 each. Nice portions.Manti is a dish I get at all the different Russian restaurants. I have come to crave this big dumpling. They stuff it with lamb and beef or pumpkin. (Can you guess which one I always order?) They serve it with a scoop of rich sour cream and caramelized onions. This Ribeye Roulette is rolled Ribeye (I think deckel) layered with lamb fat (also deckel) and roasted. It was served with marinated onions and dill. Prepared medium rare. It was tender and delish! Served with a side of home style potatoes.$13.Barb’s whole grilled Bronzino was perfectly prepared and very delicious and accompanied by grilled cauliflower . It was a daily special.Never miss the desserts at any Russian restaurant. The pastries are all delicate, rich and fabulous. Their crepes are as good as French. This Medovik was absolutely to die for. $7.
Samarkand is byob. Bring your wines, vodka, cognac, etc. Also bring the whole family. There are always families of 4 generations present at all the Russian places. I strongly recommend you find a restaurant serving this kind of food. You’ll especially like Samarkand.
JoshEatsandDrinks 