Must-Try Foods In Ordabasy Square (Shymkent) For Tourists 2026 - 2027

Food History of Ordabasy Square, Shymkent, Kazakhstan

Ordabasy Square is not only a significant historical site in Shymkent, Kazakhstan but also a place where one can explore the rich culinary heritage of the region. The food history in Shymkent is influenced by nomadic cultures, Turkish cuisine, and the indigenous ingredients found in the vast steppes of Kazakhstan. The area’s gastronomy is marked by the use of grains, dairy, and a variety of meats, although in this context, we will focus on dishes excluding cow meat. The Silk Road, which ran through this region, also introduced a variety of spices and flavors, adding to the complexity of traditional Kazakh dishes.

Must Try Top 10 Food Dishes in Ordabasy Square, Shymkent, Kazakhstan

1. Beshbarmak (Non-Veg) - A traditional Kazakh dish often made with horse or lamb, served over pasta sheets and accompanied by a meat broth called "sorpa".
2. Shashlik (Non-Veg) - Skewered and grilled chunks of marinated chicken or mutton, often cooked over an open flame.
3. Kuurdak (Non-Veg) - A hearty stew made typically from lamb or other meats, seasoned with onions and spices.
4. Baursak (Veg) - A type of fried bread, puffy and light, commonly served as a side or a snack.
5. Samsa (Veg/Non-Veg) - Baked pastries filled with vegetables or minced meat, similar to Indian samosas.
6. Manti (Non-Veg) - Dumplings filled with minced meat, often served with a side of sour cream or yogurt.
7. Kazy (Non-Veg) - A traditional sausage made from horse meat, seasoned with garlic and spices.
8. Kymyz (Non-Veg) - A fermented dairy drink made from mare's milk, known for its unique tart flavor and health benefits.
9. Laghman (Non-Veg) - A noodle dish with a flavorful broth and topped with stir-fried vegetables and meat, reflecting the dish's Uighur origin.
10. Chak-chak (Veg) - A sweet dessert made from dough that is deep-fried and then soaked in a honey syrup, often served at celebrations.

Top Famous Restaurants in Ordabasy Square, Shymkent, Kazakhstan

Below is a list of some of the top restaurants around Ordabasy Square where visitors can indulge in traditional and delicious Kazakh food, along with their address and a famous dish from their menu:

• Zhailau Restaurant
  Address: Tauke Khan Avenue 32, Shymkent
  Famous Dish: Beshbarmak (Non-Veg)
• Barbecue House
  Address: Qonaev St 12, Shymkent
  Famous Dish: Shashlik (Non-Veg)
• Kaganat Dining
  Address: Respublika Ave 16, Shymkent
  Famous Dish: Manti (Non-Veg)
• Tentek Bistro
  Address: Microdistrict Samal-1, 25, Shymkent
  Famous Dish: Kuurdak (Non-Veg)
• Aruzhan National Cuisine
  Address: Baidibek Bi St, Shymkent
  Famous Dish: Kazy (Non-Veg)
• Shimkent City Bakery
  Address: Baytursynuly St 40, Shymkent
  Famous Dish: Baursak (Veg)
• Uighur Restaurant
  Address: Tamerlan Highway, Shymkent
  Famous Dish: Laghman (Non-Veg)
• Sweet Cafe
  Address: Zenkov St 14, Shymkent
  Famous Dish: Chak-chak (Veg)
• Silk Way Restaurant
  Address: Yerubaeva St, Shymkent
  Famous Dish: Samsa (Veg/Non-Veg)
• The Shymkent Pub
  Address: Baitursynov St 19, Shymkent
  Famous Dish: A variety of international and traditional dishes including vegetarian options

Each of these restaurants offers a glimpse into the local flavors and ingredients that make Kazakh cuisine so unique, providing an authentic eating experience for tourists and locals alike.