Must-Try Foods In Altyn Asyr Bazaar (Ashgabat) For Tourists 2026 - 2027

1. Food History of Altyn Asyr Bazaar, Ashgabat, Turkmenistan The Altyn Asyr Bazaar, also known as Tolkuchka Bazaar, is a vibrant marketplace located in Ashgabat, Turkmenistan. This bazaar holds a significant place in Turkmen history as a central hub for trade and cultural exchange. Traditionally, bazaars have been places where different cultures meet, and Altyn Asyr is no exception. It has witnessed the trade of spices, fabrics, and, importantly, food. Food at the Altyn Asyr Bazaar is a reflection of Turkmenistan's culinary history, which is deeply influenced by the Silk Road caravans that passed through the region. The dishes found here incorporate elements from various cuisines, including Persian, Central Asian, and Russian, due to the diverse ethnicities present in the nation. Today, the bazaar continues to be an essential part of Ashgabat's gastronomic scene. It offers locals and tourists alike the chance to taste traditional Turkmen food, fresh produce, spices, and a variety of other regional specialties. 2. Top 10 Food Dishes to Try at Altyn Asyr Bazaar - Plov (Palaw) – A hearty rice dish often served with carrots, onions, and pieces of mutton or chicken. This is a traditional dish of Central Asia and is considered a staple in Turkmen cuisine. (Non-Veg) - Manty – Large dumplings filled with spiced pumpkin or lamb. They are usually steamed and served with a side of sour cream or tomato sauce. (Veg option available) - Shashlik – Skewers of marinated meat, such as chicken or lamb, grilled over a fire. It’s a popular street food found throughout the bazaar. (Non-Veg) - Chebureki – Deep-fried turnovers filled with minced meat and onions or a mixture of cheese and spinach for a vegetarian option. (Veg option available) - Samsa – Baked pastry with various fillings, such as minced meat, vegetables, or pumpkin. (Veg option available) - Borshch – A hearty beet soup that often includes vegetables and is sometimes served with a dollop of sour cream. (Veg) - Ash – A traditional soup made with noodles, vegetables, and sometimes meat. It often contains chickpeas and herbs. (Veg option available) - Kutabi – Stuffed flatbread that can be filled with pumpkin, spinach, or herbs for a vegetarian treat. (Veg) - Ichlekli – A meat pie that can also be prepared with a potato or cheese filling for those seeking vegetarian options. (Veg option available) - Turkmen Halva – A sweet, dense confection typically made with sugar, flour, and clarified butter. It often contains nuts such as pistachios or almonds. (Veg) 3. Top Famous Restaurants in Altyn Asyr Bazaar and Their Specialties - Turkmen Traditional Cuisine Restaurant Address: Close to the central area of Altyn Asyr Bazaar Famous Food: Plov made with chicken instead of lamb or beef, accommodating non-cow non-veg preferences (Non-Veg) - Ashgabat Vegetarian Delights Address: Southern section of Altyn Asyr Bazaar Famous Food: Veggie Kutabi packed with a mixture of spinach, herbs, and a rich cheese blend (Veg) - Kebab House Ashgabat Address: Near the entrance of Altyn Asyr Bazaar Famous Food: Chicken Shashlik, a succulent skewered grilled chicken dish, seasoned with local spices (Non-Veg) These establishments and the bazaar itself enable tourists and locals to enjoy the diverse tapestry of flavors found in Turkmen cuisine, catering to both traditional meat-based diets and the ever-growing demand for vegetarian options.