Welcome to Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan! I never expected it, but the capital city is a food connoisseur's heaven, filled with the freshest and most delicious food. Whether you're a budget traveler looking for wallet-friendly options or a food enthusiast willing to splurge, Bishkek offers a diverse range of restaurants to satisfy every palate. In this blog post, I'll take you on a journey through the city as I unveil ten must-visit restaurants that span the spectrum from cheap eats to upscale dining experiences.
Hope you're hungry because I unveil my favorite restaurants that are sure to leave you craving for more in this vibrant and dynamic city.
If you'd like to explore other eats in Bishkek, read my other helpful guides:
THINGS TO NOTE
Price Range
I've added a price point for each restaurant, ranging from ($) less than three dollars USD per person to ($$$$$) less than fifty dollars USD per person.
Access to Fish and Seafood
Kyrgyzstan is a landlocked country so getting access to quality, fresh fish is difficult and expensive. If you love sushi like me, expect to eat frozen fish and only the staples like salmon, tuna, and eel. There are tons of Japanese restaurants that serve sushi and rolls but don't be surprised if they are all filled with cream cheese.
Is it a cafe or restaurant?
Back in North America, an establishment that is called a "cafe" typically only serves coffee, drinks, and pastries like croissants or muffins. However, if an establishment is labeled a cafe in Kyrgyzstan, it can also be a restaurant. They will have a full-service food and drinks menu.
BEST RESTAURANTS IN BISHKEK, KYRGYZSTAN
1. Ethno-Complex Supara
Location: https://goo.gl/maps/WdkNQFktyTkbaPwU7
Price Point: $$$
If you're looking for a restaurant that offers a wide range of traditional Kyrgyz dishes, visit Ethno-Complex Supara. The restaurant is designed to show Kyrgyz culture and traditions. The interior decor reflects the country's nomadic heritage and is located in a picturesque atmosphere. The restaurant has outdoor seating options, allowing you to enjoy your meal while taking in the stunning views of the surrounding mountains and landscapes.
Supara offers a diverse menu and the following are my favorite dishes to order:
Chai: In Kyrgyzstan, people love to drink chai. I love the chai from Supara, it tastes so creamy and rich.
Borsok: A traditional fried dough dish that is served as a side dish. Trust me when I say this, but once you pop one in your mouth, you won't be able to stop.
Shashlik: Similar to a shish kebab, it is skewered and grilled cubes of meat. My favorite is to get lamb or beef! Since they grill it outside over wood/coal, the char gives it an extra nice flavor.
Kuurdak: A simple dish of fried mutton and potatoes. The flavor is powerful and has a nice kick of spice.
The staff at Supara have always been friendly and welcoming. During the summer, they also have activities for young children like archery.
2. Cafe Faiza
Location: https://goo.gl/maps/khaDGkgrKCp7eUUW9
Price Point: $
Faiza is an extremely popular restaurant and loved by locals, to the point where it may be difficult to get a table. They serve affordable, traditional Kyrgyz dishes. From hearty meat dishes like manti to flavorful soups and stews, the menu showcases the rich culinary heritage of Kyrgyzstan. This is one of my go-to places to order takeout. My favorite dishes are the plov, a rice dish with spices, meat, vegetables and samsa, a pastry filled with meat and vegetables.
They don't offer a menu in English so I recommend that you download the Google Translate app.
3. Navat Restaurant
Location: https://goo.gl/maps/DPH1jUbUejaANkzA7
Price Point: $$
Navat is a popular chain that offers a wide variety of traditional Kyrgyz cuisine. They have a few locations spread across Bishkek and even in Almaty, Kazakhstan. The atmosphere and environment are more upscale and modern than Faiza so it makes it an ideal choice for a get-together, group or special occasion. They are very foreigner-friendly and have a menu in English.
4. Furusato
Location: https://goo.gl/maps/9ttmdb5xS4uBNsPY6
Price Point: $$$$
Furusato has a spot in my heart and when you visit, you'll know what I mean when I say it's like going to a restaurant hidden in an alleyway in Japan. If you are craving Japanese cuisine, this is the restaurant to go to. They serve traditional dishes such as sushi, sashimi, ramen, and izakaya dishes. Considering they are one of the most reviewed restaurants on Google Maps, you'll frequently see foreigners and the staff speaks English very well. The customer service is impeccable and I had a chance to speak to the owner, and he comes from Japan.
It is perfect for a date night because of the cozy, inviting atmosphere and reminiscent of a traditional Japanese eatery. Make sure you make reservations because it can get busy during the evenings.
5. MyungGa
Price Point: $$$
MyungGa opened its doors on April 2023 and is located on Yunusaliev Ave, near the Korean embassy, along with many of the other Korean restaurants. The term MyungGa in Korean means "prestigious family" or "renowned person" and the interior design of the restaurant does encapsulate this. The contemporary furnishings, and minimalist decorations, combined with the latest built-in barbeque systems creates the perfect atmosphere to come with couples, groups, or for meetings. They do have private rooms and booths in the back of the restaurant which you can reserve in advance.
6. IWA Roof Bar and Restaurant
Location: https://goo.gl/maps/UkjvYemSoZwxgBXj8
Price Point: $$$$$
If you're looking to celebrate a special occasion, IWA Roof Bar and Restaurant, located in the Sheraton Hotel, may be worth the visit. It offers an upscale atmosphere with a contemporary ambiance with modern decor and stylish furnishings. They have a rooftop setting and provide panoramic views of Bishkek. I came on an evening during the summer, so I was able to soak in the beautiful sunset.
The restaurant offers international and fusion dishes, so don't expect to find traditional Kyrgyz cuisine here. I was also impressed by their signature cocktails and crafted drinks. On the weekends, they have live music performances and special events - check out their Instagram page to see the lineup.
7. Truffle and Coffee Gastronomy
Location: https://goo.gl/maps/AqFW7oCHAzBPpQJd8
Price Point: $$$
We came across Truffle and Coffee Gastronomy on our Instagram feed and decided to go for a date night. It opened in March 2023 so the restaurant was extremely clean, had a modern interior, and had these beautiful hanging lights. Since it is located near the embassies and international schools, they do have an English menu available.
They have a mix of Western and fusion dishes like pasta, steaks, soups, and salads. I ordered the braised beef and the tiramisu for dessert, which was absolutely divine.
8. Zaandukki
Location: https://goo.gl/maps/KHHU3BckFamK6A83A
Price Point: $$$
Zaandukki is known for serving authentic Georgian cuisine, allowing visitors to indulge in the rich and flavorful dishes of Georgia. From classic dishes like khachapuri (cheese bread) and khinkali (dumplings) to grilled meats and aromatic stews, the menu captures the essence of Georgian culinary traditions. It was my first time trying Georgian cuisine, and if I'm being honest, the food was quite salty for my taste buds.
The restaurant offers outdoor seating options, particularly during the warmer months. This allows guests to enjoy their meal in a charming outdoor setting, taking in the fresh air and enjoying the lively ambiance of Bishkek. I went on a Saturday evening during the winter season and it was fully booked, so make sure you make reservations.
9. Chinatown Restaurant
Location: https://goo.gl/maps/KGwtWaYNFNZa4Xy48
Price Point: $$$$
Having lived in Toronto, Canada, I grew up eating tons of Chinese food. Considering that China borders Kyrgyzstan, I had an expectation that there would be some amazing Chinese restaurants in Bishkek and I wasn't wrong!
Chinatown Restaurant specializes in serving authentic Chinese cuisine. From popular dishes like peking duck to stir-fries and even sushi, the menu offers a wide range of traditional Asian flavors and culinary delights. The restaurant provides a welcoming and comfortable ambiance for diners. Whether you choose to sit in the spacious dining area or opt for a private room, the relaxed atmosphere creates an enjoyable setting to savor your meal and spend time with friends or family.
10. Oasis Asian Doner and Kabab
Location: https://goo.gl/maps/QNUBBjsC31TZX7ND6
Price Point: $
After moving to Bishkek, doners became my comfort food and luckily, it can be conveniently found anywhere in Bishkek. A popular spot is Oasis, you'll recognize the green signage and the doners consist of marinated meat, vegetables, and a flavorful sauce, all wrapped in a grilled wrap.
It's sort of fast food so it is a convenient option for a quick meal on the go. Most importantly, they offer a satisfying portion size at a reasonable price, making them popular amongst EVERYONE. They have a variety of options such as chicken, beef, or even vegetarian fillings.
11. Bukhara
Location: https://goo.gl/maps/EwV2s8UNV2nU4TuB6
Price Point: $$$
At Bukhara Restaurant, you can indulge in traditional dishes from Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, and Tajikistan, prepared with fresh, high-quality ingredients. From plov (rice pilaf) to tender kebabs and flavorful soups, the menu showcases Central Asian cuisine. My favorite dish to order is ganfan, a dish served with meat, bell peppers, and celery in a tomato-like sauce, served with a side of rice.
Bukhara Restaurant is a popular venue for social gatherings, family celebrations, and business meetings in Bishkek. It is quite similar to the Navat chain. Its spacious layout and private dining options make it an ideal choice for hosting special events or simply enjoying a memorable meal with loved ones.
With multiple locations across Bishkek, Bukhara Restaurant is easily accessible for both locals and visitors. Whether you're exploring the city or staying in the vicinity, the restaurant's central location makes it a convenient dining choice.
12. Chicken Star
Location: https://goo.gl/maps/crHjiXGvbQQCE6pJ9
Price Point: $$$
I'm ethnically Korean so there are times when I miss Korean dishes that are tough to cook at home. Korean-style fried chicken is one of them and Chicken Star is operated by a Korean who also runs a coffee chain called Flask Coffee. Chicken Star is known for its delicious fried chicken, which is crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside. Whether you prefer classic flavors or something with a bit of a kick, the restaurant offers a variety of chicken options to satisfy different taste preferences.
The restaurant provides a casual and relaxed atmosphere, making it a comfortable place to enjoy your meal. Whenever I go during the weekend, they have interesting events like open mic and live music.
13. ZEN
Price Point: $$$
I've mentioned before how much I love Japanese food and I had the most amazing experience at Zen. The restaurant is located inside the Ololo co-working space building, and the interior is extremely modern with an Asian touch. The sushi and sashimi tasted incredibly fresh, and the rolls were extremely well made.
If you had the chance to visit any of these restaurants, I'd love to hear about your experience. Or if you have any other restaurant suggestions, leave it in the comments below!
Comments