Uzbekistan · tool
Samarkand food guide
Signature dishes, best food neighborhoods, and the dining etiquette that actually matters — all specific to Samarkand.
Photo by Hendrik Morkel on Unsplash
What to eat in Samarkand
5 signature dishes, 3 food-forward neighborhoods, and the etiquette you actually need to know.
Must-try dishes
Plov (O'sh)
$3–$7
The national dish of Uzbekistan, this hearty rice pilaf is slow-cooked with lamb or beef, carrots, onions, and spices. Each region has its own variation, but Samarkand's is known for its rich flavour and generous portions.
Where to try: The stalls and small eateries lining the streets around the Siyob Bazaar.
Samsa
$0.5–$1.5
A savory pastry baked in a tandoor oven, typically filled with spiced lamb or beef and onions. The flaky crust and juicy, flavourful filling make it an irresistible snack or light meal.
Where to try: Street vendors and small bakeries throughout the Old City, especially near Registan Square.
Shashlik
$2–$5
Marinated skewers of lamb, beef, or chicken grilled over charcoal. The smoky aroma and tender, flavourful meat are a hallmark of Uzbek cuisine.
Where to try: Specialized shashlik restaurants and outdoor grills in the neighbourhoods surrounding the Bibi-Khanym Mosque.
Lagman
$2.5–$5.5
A hearty noodle soup or stew, often made with hand-pulled noodles, meat (usually lamb or beef), and a variety of vegetables like peppers, tomatoes, and onions. It's a comforting and flavourful dish, with variations in spice level.
Where to try: Cafes and 'kafe' establishments in the older parts of the city, particularly in areas with a strong Uzbek and Uighur culinary influence.
Non (Lepyoshka)
$0.2–$0.8
The ubiquitous round, flatbread baked in a tandoor oven, often decorated with intricate patterns. It's a staple at every meal, perfect for scooping up sauces or eating on its own.
Where to try: Everywhere! From dedicated bakeries to street vendors and market stalls, especially at Siyob Bazaar.
Where locals eat — best neighborhoods
Siyob Bazaar Area
Bustling, authentic, sensory overload.
street foodlocal producepeople watching
Old City (near Registan)
Historic, atmospheric, tourist-friendly with local gems.
plovsamsatraditional cafes
University District
Lively, youthful, more modern cafes and eateries.
budget eatslocal hangoutsquick bites
Dietary notes
Uzbek cuisine is traditionally meat-heavy, with lamb and beef featuring prominently in many signature dishes. Vegetarian options are limited, though vegetable-based soups, salads, and breads are available. Vegan diets can be challenging but are possible with careful selection of dishes like vegetable plov (if prepared without animal fat) and samsa filled with vegetables.
Local etiquette
- •Accepting tea is a sign of respect; always take a bowl if offered, and don't fill it more than two-thirds full.
- •When eating plov, it's customary to eat from your own portion and avoid mixing it with others'. Use your right hand to eat if no utensils are provided.
- •Tipping is not customary in most places, but rounding up the bill or leaving a small amount (5-10%) for exceptional service is appreciated.
- •Cash is king, especially at markets and smaller eateries. While larger restaurants may accept cards, it's wise to carry enough local currency (Som) for most transactions.
- •It's polite to wait to be seated or invited to join a table, especially in more traditional settings.
Plan the rest of your Samarkand trip
Food guides elsewhere