Must-Try Foods In Nur Sultan (Kazakhstan) For Tourists 2026 - 2027

Food History of Nur Sultan, Kazakhstan

The food history of Nur Sultan, formerly known as Astana, is deeply rooted in the nomadic culture of Kazakhstan. The harsh climatic conditions and the nomadic lifestyle of the past have significantly influenced the traditional dishes, which primarily include ingredients that could be preserved over long periods or were readily available. Meat, dairy, and grain are staples of Kazakh cuisine, reflecting the pastoral ways of life. However, as Nur Sultan is a modern city and a melting pot of cultures, its food scene has evolved, incorporating Russian, Turkish, Korean, and other cuisines, all while retaining its unique Kazakh essence.

Must-try Top 10 Food Dishes in Nur Sultan, Kazakhstan

1. Beshbarmak (non-veg): Traditionally made with horse meat or mutton, Beshbarmak is Kazakhstan's national dish. It’s a hearty meal of boiled meat served over homemade pasta and adorned with a meat broth called sorpa.
2. Kazy (non-veg): A sausage made from horse rib meat, Kazy is a delicacy often enjoyed on special occasions.
3. Plov (non-veg): A fragrant rice dish combined with carrots, onions, and chunks of meat, where each region has its own variation.
4. Shashlik (non-veg): Grilled skewered meat, which is similar to kebabs and can be made from various types of meat except cow.
5. Manti (non-veg): Large dumplings filled with minced meat (lamb or chicken), onions, and spices, usually steamed and served with sour cream.
6. Lagman (non-veg): A noodle soup laden with vegetables and meat, it showcases the influence of Chinese and Uzbek cuisines.
7. Shelpek (vegetarian): A traditional flatbread, fried in oil and often enjoyed as an accompaniment to main dishes.
8. Baursaks (vegetarian): These are fluffy, deep-fried dough pieces that are a favorite Kazakh snack, served with tea.
9. Kurt (vegetarian): A traditional salty-sour snack made from dried cheese balls. It's portable and has a long shelf-life, reflecting the nomadic traditions.
10. Chak-chak (vegetarian): A sweet dessert made from deep-fried dough drenched in a honey syrup, often served during celebrations.

Top Famous Restaurants in Nur Sultan, Kazakhstan

1. The Ritz-Carlton Astana
   Address: Dostyq Street 16, Nur-Sultan 010016, Kazakhstan
   Famous for: Luxurious dining experience with a fusion of international and local flavors. The restaurant offers both vegetarian and non-vegetarian options.
2. Arba Wine
   Address: Kabanbai Batyr Ave 6/1, Nur-Sultan, Kazakhstan
   Famous for: An extensive selection of wines paired with European and Kazakh dishes, serving both vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes.
3. Kishlak
   Address: Saryarka Ave 4, Nur-Sultan 010017, Kazakhstan
   Famous for: Authentic Central Asian atmosphere and specializing in Uzbek cuisine, which includes non-vegetarian dishes like kebabs and plov.
4. Zheti Kazyna
   Address: Tauelsizdik Ave 33, Nur-Sultan 010000, Kazakhstan
   Famous for: Traditional Kazakh dishes in a culturally decorated setting, offering primarily non-vegetarian dishes.
5. Del Papa
   Address: Kenesary St 20, Nur-Sultan, Kazakhstan
   Famous for: Italian cuisine with a variety of vegetarian and non-vegetarian options including pasta, pizza, and seafood.
6. Saksaul
   Address: Turan Ave 37, Nur-Sultan 010000, Kazakhstan
   Famous for: A contemporary take on Kazakh and Russian cuisine with a diverse menu catering to both vegetarian and non-vegetarian preferences.
7. Ali Baba
   Address: Kabanbay Batyr Ave 48, Nur-Sultan, Kazakhstan
   Famous for: Middle Eastern cuisine, with an array of kebabs and other meat dishes along with vegetarian sides.
8. Traveler's Coffee
   Address: Various locations in Nur-Sultan
   Famous for: Cozy coffee shop chain offering light international fare including vegetarian sandwiches, salads, and sweet treats.
9. Tiflis
   Address: Syganak St 10/1, Nur-Sultan, Kazakhstan
   Famous for: Georgian cuisine including vegetarian options like Khachapuri and eggplant rolls with nuts alongside rich non-vegetarian dishes.
10. Tomato
    Address: Dostyq St 13, Nur-Sultan 010000, Kazakhstan
    Famous for: A relaxed eatery serving both Russian and European dishes with vegetarian and non-vegetarian options available.