From bustling bazaars to modern supermarkets, Kyrgyzstan has diverse options for obtaining your daily essentials and groceries. In this guide, I will take you through the various grocery shopping experiences in Kyrgyzstan, helping you make the most of your culinary adventures in this beautiful country.
WHERE TO GO GROCERY SHOPPING IN KYRGYZSTAN
1. Traditional Bazaars
Kyrgyzstan's traditional bazaars are vibrant hubs of activity, offering a wide array of fresh produce, spices, dairy products, and more. These markets are places to shop and opportunities to immerse yourself in the local culture. Here are a few of my favorite bazaars:
Ortosay Bazaar: Located in the southern district of Seoul, it is my go-to market for groceries and household goods. You can find clothing, household appliances, and a variety of fresh produce, and meats. If you want to see how much I spend on groceries for two - check out my video here. There are also many food vendors where you can buy baked goods and my favorite samsa shop is located here as well.
Osh Bazaar: The Osh Bazaar, located in the capital city of Bishkek, is one of the most famous markets in Kyrgyzstan. It's a bustling hub of activity where you can find an abundance of fruits, vegetables, nuts, dried fruits, and spices. Be prepared for the lively atmosphere, enthusiastic vendors, and a plethora of Kyrgyz specialties, including fresh dairy products like kymyz (fermented mare's milk) and kurut (dried yogurt balls).
2. Supermarkets
In recent years, Kyrgyzstan has seen the emergence of modern supermarkets and hypermarkets, providing a convenient and familiar shopping experience for both locals and expatriates. Here are some popular options:
Globus Supermarket: Globus Supermarket chain is the largest and most popular supermarket chain. They have multiple locations across the city and country, making it easily accessible to residents and tourists alike. They have an impressive product variety. Whether you're in search of fresh produce, pantry staples, meats, or international and local brands, this supermarket has it all. Beyond groceries, they stock household essentials, cleaning products, and kitchenware, providing shoppers with convenience under one roof. I highly recommend you download their flyer and mobile application to see what deals they have. Also a huge plus, most locations are 24/7.
Frunze Supermarket: Frunze Supermarket is a spacious and well-organized supermarket chain that is similar to Globus. You can find a diverse range of products here, from local and international brands to fresh fruits and vegetables. It's a great place to stock up on groceries while enjoying a modern shopping atmosphere. Also, I highly recommend you download their flyer and mobile application to see what deals they have.
3. Specialty Stores
Kyrgyzstan also boasts some specialty stores that cater to specific tastes and preferences. These stores can be a treasure trove for unique and niche ingredients. Here are a few to explore:
Ferma Market: Ferma Market is one of my favorite specialty stores. They specialize in carrying organic items, and most importantly to me, fresh eggs. They have a local farm and have various foods directly from the farm such as eggs, all-natural peanut butter, flour, and honey.
Korean Markets: There are a few located inside Ortosay Bazaar that specialize in carrying foreign ingredients.
TIPS FOR GROCERY SHOPPING IN KYRGYZSTAN
Cash is King: While major supermarkets accept cards (I recommend Visa, my Mastercard has been rejected before), it's advisable to carry cash, especially when shopping at traditional markets and smaller stores.
Bargaining: Surprisingly, I haven't seen people bargain in the traditional markets. You can try it, but I've personally never tried it before.
BYOB (Bring Your Own Bag): It's a good practice to carry your reusable shopping bags, as not all stores provide them, and you can contribute to reducing plastic waste.
Local Currency: Use the local currency, Kyrgyz Som, for your purchases.
Language: Learning a few basic Kyrgyz or Russian phrases can be helpful when communicating with vendors who may not speak English.
Seasonal Foods: Embrace seasonal produce, as it's not only fresher but often more affordable.
Grocery shopping in Kyrgyzstan is an adventure in itself. Whether you choose to explore the bustling bazaars, opt for the convenience of modern supermarkets, or seek out specialty stores, you'll find a rich tapestry of flavors and traditions waiting to be discovered. So, go ahead, embark on your culinary journey through Kyrgyzstan, and savor the tastes of this enchanting Central Asian country.
Comments