Uzbekistan is a fascinating place and its food scene is no exception. Local cuisine here is packed with bold flavors, rich spices, and centuries-old cooking traditions. From street food to hearty dishes, the country offers something for every palate. Whether you’re craving something savory or sweet, Uzbekistan will take your taste buds on a journey.
Must-Try Dishes
Plov
Plov is hands down the most iconic dish in Uzbekistan. It’s a rice-based dish cooked with lamb or beef, carrots, onions, and raisins, all slow-cooked to perfection. Every region in Uzbekistan has its own twist on plov, but you can’t miss trying the Tashkent version. Served in large quantities, it’s both filling and delicious. Popular spots to try plov include the famous “Central Asian Plov Center” in Tashkent.
Lagman
Lagman is another staple of Uzbek cuisine. These are hand-pulled noodles served in a hearty broth filled with beef or lamb, various vegetables, and topped with plenty of fresh herbs. The noodles themselves are handmade, giving an authentic, chewy texture. You can enjoy lagman at family-owned chaikhanas (teahouses). A great place to try lagman is “Karakul Chaikhana” in Bukhara.
Shashlik
Shashlik is essentially skewered grilled meat, typically made from lamb, but there are varieties made with chicken and beef, too. It’s found almost everywhere across Uzbekistan, from street vendors to restaurants. Seasoned with salt and spices, shashlik is a classic barbecue favorite. You’ll often see entire families lining up for these at local markets or outdoor food stalls. For a local experience, try shashlik at “Eski Juva Market” in Tashkent.
Somsa
Somsa is Uzbekistan’s answer to savory pastries. These are small pies stuffed with minced meat, onions, and sometimes vegetables, all baked to golden perfection. samsa is usually cooked in tandyr ovens, which are clay ovens that give them a crispy outer shell. Popular as street food and ready-to-go snacks, you’ll find samsa sold almost everywhere. Don’t miss the fresh batch near “Chorsu Bazaar” in Tashkent.
Manti
Manti are steamed dumplings, often packed with minced lamb or beef, onions, and sometimes pumpkin. These dumplings are famous across Central Asia, but Uzbekistan’s version holds its own with the perfect balance of juicy fillings and fluffy dough. They’re typically served with sour cream or a side of tomato-based sauce. Manti are commonly served in restaurants, but you can also grab them as street food, especially at local markets like “Siyob Bazaar” in Samarkand.
Street Food & Snacks
Non (Uzbek Bread)
If there’s one thing you’ll notice everywhere in Uzbekistan, it’s the bread called non. Round, flat, and often decorated with pressed patterns, non is a must-have with any meal. The bread is baked in a tandyr oven, giving it a beautiful crust and soft interior. Grab a fresh one from larger street markets or directly from bakeries; it’s often sold piping hot.
Chuchvara
Think of chuchvara as Uzbekistan’s version of mini dumplings. These tiny, boiled meat-stuffed delights are often eaten as street food or served in broth as a soup. Easy to pop in your mouth, chuchvara makes for a quick snack when you’re out exploring. If you’re in Tashkent, look for family-style eateries that have them on their menu.
Tandir Kebabs
This tender and smoky kebab is cooked in a traditional clay oven, known as a tandir. The lamb is marinated in local spices and then slowly roasted, resulting in incredibly juicy meat that falls off the skewer. You do not need to go far to find tandir kebabs because they’re sold around street corners and at open markets.
Kurt
In need of a portable snack? Try kurt—little balls made from dried curd cheese. While it may sound strange, kurt is salty, tangy, and surprisingly addictive. It’s a great snack when you’re on the move or as an accompaniment to other dishes.
Patir
This is another type of bread, but denser and flakier than non. Patir is usually served alongside soups or stews, but you can grab it at local bakeries or stalls. You’ll often see locals eating it with tea or as a side to hearty meals.
The Dining Experience
Chaikhanas (Teahouses)
Chaikhanas are traditional teahouses that are an essential part of Uzbek dining culture. They’re laid-back spots where you can sip on green tea while enjoying various dishes like plov, lagman, and shashlik. These places are great to unwind after a long day of sightseeing. The atmosphere is usually relaxed, with low seating, carpets, and pillows. In rural areas, teahouses double as community centers where people go to gather and chat.
Bazaar Dining
Bazaars are the heart of daily life in Uzbekistan, and they’re also where you can find some of the best and cheapest eats in the country. From plov to kebabs, from non to samsa, food stalls inside bazaars offer a wide range of tasty and freshly made dishes. Bazaars like “Chorsu Bazaar” in Tashkent or the “Samarkand Siyob Bazaar” are packed with food stalls worth exploring.
High-End Restaurants
If you’re looking for something more upscale, cities like Tashkent and Samarkand have a growing fine-dining scene. Some restaurants fuse traditional dishes with modern cooking techniques, while others focus on local ingredients but with a touch more luxury. A popular spot is “Afsona” in Tashkent, where they serve dishes like manti and shashlik with a gourmet presentation. In Samarkand, another fine dining choice is “Plov Lounge” for a more refined twist on traditional meals.
Vegetarian and Vegan Options
While Uzbekistan is big on meat, vegetarians and vegans can still find plenty to eat. Many dishes like lagman or salads like achichuk (a simple tomato and onion salad) can be made without any meat. Restaurants and cafes in big cities like Tashkent are more accommodating to vegetarians, especially in tourist areas. Some even offer broader veggie options, including stuffed grape leaves and fruit salads.
Drinks to Try
Green Tea
Tea is the drink of choice in Uzbekistan, especially green tea. It’s served at almost every meal and is considered a gesture of hospitality. Don’t be surprised if you have several cups offered to you throughout your meal. It’s a great way to end a meal or refresh yourself in between sightseeing. Most chaikhanas will serve hot, strong green tea automatically if you dine in.
Kumis
Kumis is a fermented dairy drink made from mare’s milk. It’s quite popular in Central Asia, and though it has a slight alcoholic content, it’s mostly known for its tangy, unique flavor. If you’re adventuresome and eager to try something truly local, ask for kumis at rural teahouses or markets.
Uzbek Wines
Believe it or not, Uzbekistan has a developing wine industry. The country’s unique climate allows for the production of some excellent wines. In fact, Samarkand has been producing wine for centuries. If you want to try local wines, head to “Khovrenko Winery” in Samarkand for tastings and tours.
Compote
Compote is a refreshing, fruity drink made from boiling fresh or dried fruits with sugar and water. It’s often served cold and is perfect for Uzbekistan’s warm summers. Many restaurants and chaikhanas serve a glass of it alongside meals so don’t forget to ask for one.
Where to Eat
In Tashkent
Tashkent, the capital, is home to some of Uzbekistan’s top restaurants. For a mix of local dishes and a modern twist on the classics, visit “Caravan” or “Afsona.” You can also find vibrant markets like “Chorsu Bazaar” for more authentic, down-to-earth meals. If street food and local flavors are your thing, head to “Eski Juva” for traditional snacks and sweets.
In Samarkand
Samarkand combines great food with its historic atmosphere. Dining here means enjoying local dishes in one of the country’s oldest cities. “Platan” serves gourmet versions of Uzbekistan staples, while “Plov Lounge” specializes in Uzbekistan’s iconic rice dish. For something more casual, visit “Siyob Bazaar” where you’ll find everything from freshly made sweets to traditional kebabs.
In Bukhara
Bukhara may feel more traditional, and its dining scene reflects that. Local chaikhanas are your best bet here, with some great options including “Chinar Chaikhana” or “Karakul Chaikhana” for plov, lagman, and stews. The old town is packed with small eateries where you can enjoy meals in an open-air courtyard.
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