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
- 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".
- Shashlik (Non-Veg) - Skewered and grilled chunks of marinated chicken or mutton, often cooked over an open flame.
- Kuurdak (Non-Veg) - A hearty stew made typically from lamb or other meats, seasoned with onions and spices.
- Baursak (Veg) - A type of fried bread, puffy and light, commonly served as a side or a snack.
- Samsa (Veg/Non-Veg) - Baked pastries filled with vegetables or minced meat, similar to Indian samosas.
- Manti (Non-Veg) - Dumplings filled with minced meat, often served with a side of sour cream or yogurt.
- Kazy (Non-Veg) - A traditional sausage made from horse meat, seasoned with garlic and spices.
- Kymyz (Non-Veg) - A fermented dairy drink made from mare's milk, known for its unique tart flavor and health benefits.
- Laghman (Non-Veg) - A noodle dish with a flavorful broth and topped with stir-fried vegetables and meat, reflecting the dish's Uighur origin.
- 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.