Lazzat: Bringing Uzbekistan’s Halal Flavors to Seoul

In the cosmopolitan neighborhood of Itaewon, where cultures and cuisines from around the world converge, one restaurant has carved out a unique place in Korea’s dining scene. Lazzat, founded by Uzbek entrepreneur Abdullaev Makhmud, holds the distinction of being the first Central Asian restaurant in Korea to serve authentic halal food.

For many in Korea’s Muslim community, Lazzat has become more than just a restaurant—it is a welcoming haven where tradition meets taste. Visitors are greeted with the aroma of freshly baked Uzbek bread, savory kebabs, and plov, the nation’s beloved rice dish. Every plate tells a story of heritage, crafted with the flavors of home and the authenticity of halal preparation.

“My dream was to share Uzbek food with Korea, and to show that halal cuisine can be enjoyed by everyone, not only Muslims,” says Makhmud. “Food is one of the best ways to connect people, and I wanted Lazzat to be a place of cultural exchange.”

But Lazzat is not only about food. It represents cultural dialogue, a bridge connecting Korea with the rich traditions of Central Asia. Korean diners and international travelers alike have discovered in Lazzat a place where they can experience Uzbekistan’s hospitality, warmth, and culinary artistry.

Abdullaev Makhmud's pioneering vision has left an enduring mark on Seoul’s multicultural landscape. By introducing halal dining to Korea at a time when it was still unfamiliar, he opened doors for greater inclusivity and understanding in the country’s food culture.

“When customers tell me they felt at home here, that is the greatest reward,” Makhmud reflects. “It means we are not just serving food—we are creating community.”

Today, Lazzat continues to thrive as both a dining destination and a cultural ambassador, reminding us that a meal can be much more than sustenance—it can be a celebration of diversity, identity, and togetherness.

Savoring Uzbekistan: A Culinary Journey Through Central Asia

Nestled in the heart of Central Asia, Uzbekistan is not only a country of breathtaking landscapes and rich history but also a paradise for food lovers. Its cuisine, shaped by centuries along the Silk Road, combines hearty ingredients, bold flavors, and warm hospitality.

At the center of Uzbek tables is plov, a fragrant rice dish cooked with tender lamb, carrots, onions, and aromatic spices—often considered the national dish. Meat lovers will delight in shashlik, skewered and grilled chunks of marinated meat, smoky and juicy, perfect for sharing with friends.

Street food enthusiasts can enjoy samsa, golden baked pastries filled with meat or vegetables, and manti, steamed dumplings stuffed with spiced meat, offering a comforting bite at any time of the day. Lagman, a hand-pulled noodle dish served with a rich meat and vegetable broth, showcases the region’s love for noodles and hearty flavors.

Bread, or non, is more than just a staple; it is a symbol of Uzbek hospitality, baked in traditional clay ovens and often shared during meals. For those with a sweet tooth, chak-chak, crunchy honey-coated dough, provides a perfect ending to any feast.

Whether it’s a family gathering, a festival, or a bustling market, Uzbek cuisine is a celebration of flavor, culture, and connection. Each dish tells a story of centuries-old traditions and the warmth of a people who know how to make every meal memorable.

Makhmud, the owner of Lazzat Restaurant, has lived in Korea for 15 years and opened his restaurant in 2013. With great passion for cooking, he even attended a culinary academy to learn Korean cuisine. Over the years, he has been invited by various broadcasting companies and appeared on several TV programs. He gained wide recognition after showcasing authentic Uzbek cuisine on the popular program “My Neighbor, Charles”, where his dishes earned the admiration of many viewers. He was also featured on a show hosted by famous entertainer Kim Young-chul, where he introduced Uzbek food and promoted his restaurant, helping boost the show’s ratings.

Beyond television, Makhmud is also a successful YouTuber with a large following. His spacious restaurant is fully equipped with facilities that allow for professional broadcasting, making it a popular filming location. Uzbek entrepreneurs in Korea, students learning the Uzbek language, Koreans who have traveled to Uzbekistan, and even many celebrities frequently visit his restaurant, often appearing in broadcasts filmed there. Over the years, he has built an extensive network of friends and connections, sharing cultures and expanding his influence.

Since 2015, Lazzat Restaurant has partnered with Coupang Eats to deliver halal food, consistently ranking No. 1 in sales. Every year, he makes remarkable contributions to the Itaewon Global Village Festival, where his restaurant draws the most attention and popularity. Among his signature dishes, Shashlik—skewered beef, lamb, or chicken marinated and grilled over charcoal—stands out, with sales reaching up to 500 kilograms per day. Other popular menu items include plov (Uzbek pilaf) and freshly baked traditional bread.

In recognition of his efforts, Makhmud was awarded the National Medal by the Embassy of Uzbekistan on the 30th anniversary of Uzbekistan’s independence, a moment of great pride for him. He also received an award in the tourism sector, highlighting his role in cultural exchange. Notably, Lazzat was the first restaurant in Seoul to serve halal food, attracting visitors not only from Korea but also from countries such as Malaysia, India, and Indonesia, where halal cuisine is an important tradition.

During Ramadan, his restaurant is always bustling with reservations from Muslim guests. Adding to his list of achievements, Makhmud was also honored with the Best Entrepreneur Award by the Korea Consumer Association, further cementing his reputation as a respected cultural and business figure in Korea.