Kazakhstan

What to eat in Almaty

Almaty's culinary scene blends Kazakh staples with Russian, Chinese and Central Asian influences. Street stalls, modest canteens and modern cafés serve everything from hearty meat dishes to vegetarian noodles.

Local dishes to try

Beshbarmak

Steamed horse or beef served over flat noodles, traditionally eaten on holidays and family gatherings.

Kuyrdak

A skillet dish of liver, kidneys and heart seasoned with onions, common in winter taverns.

Shashlik

Marinated lamb or beef grilled over charcoal, sold at markets and street corners for lunch.

Lagman

Spicy broth with thick noodles, vegetables and beef, popular in Chinese‑style eateries.

Kurt

Salty, crumbly cheese snacks, often eaten with tea in the afternoon.

Baursak

Small, fluffy dough pieces dusted with sugar, sold at fairs and as a tea accompaniment.

Kymyz

Slightly sour, mildly alcoholic drink, served chilled in traditional tea houses.

Plov

Rice cooked with carrots, onions and lamb, a staple at weekend family meals.

Where to eat

1
Arbat Street
A pedestrian boulevard lined with kiosks offering shashlik, lagman and fresh fruit juices.
2
Green Bazaar (Zelyony Bazaar)
The city’s largest market where you can sample kurt, baursak and local cheeses.
3
Kok Tobe Hill promenade
Food stalls at the cable‑car station serve grilled meats and traditional drinks with mountain views.