Must-Try Foods In Khiva (Uzbekistan) For Tourists 2026 - 2027

Food History of Khiva, Uzbekistan

Khiva, once an ancient Silk Road city, holds a rich gastronomic heritage that has been influenced by various civilizations that passed through. The food history of Khiva integrates nomadic Turko-Mongol traditions with Persian, Russian, and other Central Asian flavors. Staples include grains, legumes, vegetables, and fruits grown in the oasis, and meats other than cow meat, such as mutton, chicken, and fish due to religious dietary laws. Over the centuries, Khiva developed its unique culinary identity which can be tasted in its traditional dishes, often marked by intense flavors and communal styles of eating.

Top 10 Must-Try Food Dishes in Khiva, Uzbekistan

1. Plov - This is the national dish of Uzbekistan, made from rice, onions, carrots, and mutton (non-veg). While available across the country, each region has its unique take on plov.
2. Shurpa - A hearty soup usually prepared with vegetables and mutton or chicken (non-veg) for a rich flavor.
3. Shivit Oshi - A unique dill-infused noodle dish that is sometimes served with meat (non-veg) although vegetarian versions are available.
4. Dimlama - A slow-cooked stew that is packed with various vegetables and chunks of mutton or chicken (non-veg), ideal for the health-conscious traveler.
5. Manti - Delicious steamed dumplings that are typically filled with minced mutton or chicken (non-veg) and a variety of spices.
6. Lagman - A noodle dish mixed with vegetables and meat (non-veg), it combines a blend of savory and spicy that is essential to Central Asian cuisine.
7. Non - Uzbek bread that is often baked in clay ovens, a staple that can accompany any meal (veg).
8. Tukhum Barak - Egg dumplings that can be considered a luxurious treat and often involve a rich dough (can be veg if made without meat fillings).
9. Somsa - Pastry filled with minced meat (non-veg), onions, and spices, baked to perfection and popular for a quick snack.
10. Chak-Chak - A sweet and sticky dessert made from fried dough covered with honey, often served during festive occasions (veg).

Top Famous Restaurants in Khiva, Uzbekistan

Terras Café

Address: K. Yakubova Street, Khiva

Famous Food: Plov (non-veg)

Khorezm Art Restaurant

Address: Pahlavon Mahmud Street, Khiva

Famous Food: Shurpa (non-veg)

National House Zainab

Address: Tashpulatov Street, Khiva

Famous Food: Shivit Oshi (can be veg or non-veg)

Restaurant Barakacha

Address: Yusuf Yasaulboshi Street, Khiva

Famous Food: Dimlama (non-veg)

Yassavulboshi Restaurant

Address: Pahlavan Mahmud Street, Khiva

Famous Food: Manti (non-veg)