Bite Nearby: Azerbaijan Grill

The country Azerbaijan is located at the crossroads of western Asian and Eastern Europe, with the Caspian Sea to the east, Russia to the north, Georgia to the northwest, Armenia and Turkey to the west and Iran to the south.

This means that many cultures have played a role in creating this country’s cuisine, which can be enjoyed at Azerbaijan Grill in Westbury.

On each table, along with the salt and pepper, is a shaker with a red powder called somagh. Somagh is the dried crushed berries of the sumac bush and is a popular condiment in regional cooking. “Have it on anything,” encourages owner Saeed Sheiklar, who says that it helps , a claim somewhat supported by research conducted in Canada.

Azerbaijan Grill – Meals at Azerbaijan Grill begin with warm pita and yogurt. Appetizer choices include kashket badenjan (eggplant and onions in a tomato sauce topped with yogurt), sambuseh (crispy dumplings stuffed with vegetables and chick peas) and trushi (Persian pickeled vegetables) each for $5.95. The Azerbaijan Special Combo of any three appetizers is $14.95.

Rice plays a major role in the cuisine and white or brown basmati rice can be had plain or flavored. The three types of specialty rice are served with fresh cherries, with wild berries and saffron and with dill and baby lima beans. Each had a distinctive flavor.

The brook trout entree was filleted, with head and trail left on and grilled front and back on an open fire ($16.95). Vegetable moussaka had no cheese but is still creamy. The sliced vegetables – eggplant, potatoes, zucchini and pepper – are cooked individually and combined with a basil tomato sauce and baked ($13.95). Salad choices include cracked wheat with green onions, fresh herbs and lemon juice and olive oil ($6.95).

1610 Old Country Rd., Westbury, NY 11590, 516-228-0001
www.azerbaijangrill.com
Hours: Mon-Sun 11:30 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Prices: salads are $6.95, a special combo of any three appetizers is $14.95. Entrees range from $13.95 to $16.95.