Travelers arrive in Samarkand to gaze at breathtaking monuments, mosques and mausoleums. Between abundant sightseeing, there’s surely time to expand palates, marinate in the flavors of Uzbek cuisine. To avoid tourist traps, here are some family-run businesses and local recommendations that were offered by my local tour guide during my time in this gem of a city. Here are some of the best restaurants to try traditional Uzbek cuisine in the magnificent Samarkand.

 

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Cubed meats skewered on a stick is a typical dish in Uzbekistan. Shashlik refers to larger chunks, the best part is the lightly spiced aroma. Many agree that Ikrom Shashlik is an iconic choice for the most delicious lamb kebabs in Samarkand. The grill genius behind the fire pit has been serving up everyone’s favorite shashliks for two decades. If you’re not afraid to be adventurous, try smoked fats or bull testicles for something other than the ubiquitous chicken and beef.

Emirhan Restaurant is a beautiful restaurant, as part of Emirhan Hotel and encompasses a rooftop terrace offering a breathtaking view of Registan Square, in addition to a two-floor indoor space plated with traditional Uzbek dishes with hints of Russian and Mediterranean flavors. To start, make sure to order baqlajon urama gazak (eggplant rolls.) This might be a pricier dining option, but the view is worth the cost. Be sure to make a reservation, especially for a table on the rooftop.

Platan is a fan-favorite when it comes to traditional Uzbek cuisine as the hotel-restaurant creates a homey setting, satiating hungry travelers with delicious plov – Uzbekistan’s national dish made of rice cooked in stock, spices, vegetables and meat. There are also European tastes, like: tuna cooked in Spanish Josper oven, or grilled salmon steak. The restaurant oozes omantic ambiance, initiated from its entrance guided by arches covered with luscious greens and hanging plants.

For a lovely platter of fragrant meats and fresh salads, head over to Samarkand Restaurant in a large dining hall featuring live music and show. Part of the experience is almost like being invited to a local wedding. After dinner, guests bust their moves on the dance floor right in front of a neon-lit stage. While sipping on a warm bowl of dumpling soup, locals are celebrating birthdays or a girls night out.

For a crusty snack, head over to Kokandskaya Somsa – a family-run business known for exactly what the name of the café refers to: a flakey Uzbek pastry stuffed with meat or vegetables. Somsa come in different flavors, think: barbecue or with spices. Each somsa costs 7,000 som (approximately $0.50 USD,) and there’s also a charming courtyard where you can rest your feet while indulging in this savory treat with a cup of lemon tea!

If you can’t get enough of plov, head over to Samarkand Osh Markazi known for the city’s best rice dish. Different from Tashkent plov, Samarkand plov is stacked in layers. Yellow carrots, beef and a lighter flax seed oil is used in the Samarkand way of cooking plov. It’s recommended to order a half-order since portions are generous. Each half-order costs 40,000 – 70,000 som (USD $3-5.) Despite its location just  outside of the city center, this joint is also frequented by locals and that’s how you know it’s the real deal.

Old City Restaurant is an ideal option for vegetarians since there are many available items on the menu, including: pumpkin manti (dumplings) and vegetarian plov. Its Uzbek dishes also highlight Russian and European-style cuisines, like chickens with cashews, goat meat with honey. All served in a cozy setting with a working fireplace that truly resembles eating in a local’s home.

One more gorgeous restaurant with the ultimate view of Bibi Khanym Mosque’s turquoise domes and azure tiles is Zargaron. An elegant and sophisticated choice when it comes to the decor, the food is traditionally Uzbek so expect to see seasoned kebabs and vegetables on the menu. Emphasizing a throwback energy, the friendly staffed is dressed in Uzbek garments.

For a fun show to accompany splendid baklava dessert and coffee, check out El’ Merosi. The coffeeshop is a restaurant and a theater catered to foreign travelers looking for traditional dance performances while enjoying local snacks. It might be a touristy activity, but this is a great option for a break after hours of sightseeing around Samarkand.