In 1928 this was the site of a small “Great A&P Tea Co” grocery store, maybe in this very building. A decade later the A&P had built a much grander store directly across Hull Street, and this little structure had become the Hull Street Market. Their new owner, Rubin Hanan, struggled to compete with his big chain-store neighbor. To survive, Rubin invented charcoal-blackened steaks, and his small business became the destination for fine beef, renowned Montgomery wide. Later the little store (and secret meat treatment) was taken over by son Reuben, and thus the highly successful outlet was operated by Hanan for neigh 65 years, far outlasting the A&P grocery that was its one-time nemesis. In its hey-day, the specialty operation was so successful that Reuben could afford to become a Town Character in his own right.

-Charles Humphries

In the early 1920’s, Rubin Hanan emigrated from Greece to pursue the American dream. He settled in the southern town of Montgomery, Alabama and opened a corner grocery store in 1935.

Rubin ran a fine store with a focus on quality meats and customer satisfaction. His store was well received, but something in particular was creating a buzz among the locals.

All the talk wasn’t about Mr. Hanan or his choice cuts. His wife, Mis’ Rubin, as she was known around town, was creating amazing dry rubs and delicious seasonings.

The popularity of Mis’ Rubin’s seasonings spread throughout the region and they became kitchen essentials to many devoted customers.

Our black and white magic seasonings are as beloved today as they were back then.

Rubin passed these seasoning recipes down to my father, who then passed them along to my wife and me.

We hold these recipes near and dear to our hearts. They are a link to our past and a way for us to honor our family and their many years of hard work. We are thrilled to continue this family tradition and proud to share our seasonings with you.

–Robert & Ashley Landers (misrubins.com)