Turkmenistan might not be the first place that comes to mind when you think of culinary destinations, but it definitely has its own fabulous flavors that are worth exploring. The local food scene is influenced by its Central Asian roots, blending flavors from neighboring Iran, Uzbekistan, and Turkey. Whether you’re craving something savory, rich, or sweet, Turkmenistan has plenty of traditional dishes that will leave you satisfied. Here’s a breakdown of what to eat and where to go when you’re in Turkmenistan.
Traditional Dishes You Have to Try
1. Plov
Plov is the heart and soul of Turkmen cuisine. This dish is essentially a rice pilaf cooked with lamb, carrots, and onions, all simmered in a fragrant broth. Some versions include raisins or tomatoes for a slightly sweet twist, while others remain purely savory. You’ll find plov all over Central Asia, but each country adds its own touch—Turkmenistan’s plov is rich with lamb fat and garlic.
If you’re in Ashgabat, you can find delicious plov at local markets. Many cafes and restaurants also serve this hearty dish. It’s usually one of the most affordable meals you’ll find, making it perfect for travelers on a budget.
2. Shashlik
Shashlik is skewered, barbecued meat, typically lamb or beef, seasoned with herbs and spices. The meat is grilled until it’s smoky and charred on the outside but tender on the inside. It’s a street food favorite; you’ll often see vendors cooking shashlik on open grills.
The best way to experience shashlik is from a street vendor. Head to Teke Bazaar in Ashgabat, where you can smell the meat cooking from a mile away. Pair it with some flatbread and a salad for a complete meal.
3. Manty
Manty are steamed dumplings filled with ground lamb and onions. They’re usually served with a dollop of sour cream or yogurt on the side. These dumplings are a comforting, delicious snack or meal on the go. The dough is thin yet hearty, giving each bite a good balance between meat and dough.
You’ll find manty in many local restaurants or at food markets. For an authentic experience, try them at Ýyly Suw Restaurant in Ashgabat. They specialize in traditional Turkmen dishes, and their manty are some of the best in the country.
4. Gomach
A Turkmen twist on bread, gomach is a traditional flatbread that’s baked in a clay oven. It’s soft, chewy, and often sprinkled with sesame seeds. It’s the perfect accompaniment to any meal and is often served with tea.
Fresh gomach can be found in most markets. Head to Gypjak Bazaar to watch it being baked in front of you. Nothing beats gomach fresh out of the oven!
Street Foods You Shouldn’t Miss
1. Samsa
Samsa is a Central Asian pastry stuffed with minced meat, usually lamb or beef, along with onions and spices. It’s baked until golden and crispy. These hand-held snacks are perfect for when you’re on the go and hungry.
You’ll find samsa stalls near almost any market or bus stop. The vendors usually wrap them in paper, making them easy to eat as you walk through the city. Look for them at the Russian Market in Ashgabat for the most authentic taste.
2. Chebureki
Chebureki are fried pastries filled with meat and onions. The dough is crispy and slightly oily, but it’s the filling that really makes it delicious. The flavor of the lamb or beef combined with the onions creates a savory explosion in every bite.
Chebureki is usually sold at small street stalls alongside samsa. You can easily find it at Ashgabat’s markets, like Teke Bazaar or Mir Bazaar. Grab a few of these warm, crispy pastries for a quick snack!
3. Gutap
Gutap is like a thin stuffed bread, filled with ingredients like greens, meat, or even pumpkin. It’s grilled on both sides until crispy. This makes for a light yet tasty snack or side dish.
The best part? You can find gutap pretty much everywhere, from food stalls in Ashgabat’s markets to small restaurants. For a tasty version, try the stalls at Tashkent Bazaar. The vendors there are known for wrapping perfect gutaps.
Top Restaurants to Check Out
1. Altyn Asyr Restaurant (Ashgabat)
Altyn Asyr is one of the best spots in the capital city for traditional Turkmen dishes. Their menu is packed with everything from plov to fresh salads and bread. The portions are big, and the prices are reasonable.
It’s a popular choice among locals, so you know you’re getting the real deal. Make sure to try their ayran, a traditional yogurt-based drink that pairs perfectly with most dishes on offer.
2. Ýyly Suw Restaurant (Ashgabat)
For a fine-dining experience with fantastic service, go to Ýyly Suw. It’s known for its beautiful presentation of traditional Turkmen dishes. Their manty are especially good, along with their shashlik.
The restaurant is slightly on the pricier side, but if you’re looking to splurge on a nice dinner, Ýyly Suw is the place. The ambiance and food quality will make it worth your while.
3. Char Gapy Restaurant (Turkmenabat)
If you find yourself in Turkmenabat, don’t miss Char Gapy. It’s a lovely local spot that serves hearty Turkmen favorites, from plov to shashlik. The setting is relaxed, making it perfect for travelers and locals alike.
This restaurant offers generous portions, so come hungry—or bring a friend to share! It’s also a great place to try gutap paired with a refreshing cup of tea.
4. Sary-Gyz Restaurant (Mary)
For those visiting the city of Mary, stop by Sary-Gyz, a cozy spot with delicious traditional dishes. Their freshly baked bread, manty, and chebureki are incredibly popular with both locals and travelers.
Sary-Gyz offers a nice outdoor seating area where you can enjoy your meal while soaking in the ambiance. Don’t leave without trying their savory lamb stew, which is simmered to perfection!
Tips for Finding Authentic Cuisine
1. Visit Local Bazaars
The best place to try local food is at the markets. Places like the Russian Market or Teke Bazaar in Ashgabat are where vendors cook up fresh, traditional dishes. You can smell the spices and hear the sizzle of shashlik from meters away.
Bazaars are also perfect if you’re on a budget. You’ll find tons of options at a much lower price than in restaurants, plus you get to eat like a local.
2. Don’t Skip Street Food
Turkmenistan excels at street food, and it’s everywhere. From shashlik to samsa, street vendors serve quick, tasty, and affordable meals. Plus, they’re perfect if you’re traveling and don’t have time for a sit-down dinner.
Be bold and try something unfamiliar. The variety of street food will surely satisfy—even if you’re a picky eater!
3. Ask Locals for Recommendations
While guidebooks are great, nothing beats asking a local where they eat. Often, the best food isn’t always found in fancy restaurants but in small, simple places.
Whether it’s a taxi driver or someone you meet at a café, don’t be shy—ask questions! Most people will be happy to point you to their favorite spots.
Final Thoughts
Food is one of the best ways to experience the culture of Turkmenistan. From hearty plov to crispy samsa, there’s no shortage of delicious traditional dishes to try. Try the street food, visit the markets, and don’t be afraid to step off the beaten path in search of authentic flavors. You won’t regret it!
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