While the Atyrau Bridge itself, spanning across the Ural River and connecting the European and Asian sides of the city of Atyrau in Kazakhstan, does not have a food history of its own, the region of Atyrau is rich in culinary tradition. The city, with its proximity to the Caspian Sea, is renowned for its seafood and fish dishes, diverging somewhat from the meat-heavy diet that is common in much of the country. Fish such as sturgeon and perch are local favorites. Historically, the cuisine from this region has been influenced by the nomadic culture of the Kazakhs as well as Russian and Middle Eastern culinary practices. Atyrau's position as a hub for oil and gas industries has also brought in a diversity of cultures, and this melting pot has created a unique food scene where traditional Kazakh foods meet international dishes.