While traditional meals are centered around meat, vegetarian travelers can still eat well in Kyrgyzstan. Many local dishes include fresh produce, grains, and dairy. Salads, manty with pumpkin, fried potatoes, and lentil soups are widely available, especially in cities and tourist areas.

Where in Kyrgyzstan is it easiest to find vegetarian food?

Karakol stands out as one of the best destinations for vegetarian travelers. With its diverse community and active trekking culture, Karakol offers a range of restaurants and cafés that cater to vegetarians and vegans, including international and fusion cuisine options.

In larger cities like Bishkek, Osh, and Karakol, you’ll find cafés and restaurants serving European, Asian, and Middle Eastern cuisine that often include vegetarian or vegan-friendly foods.

Are there any local vegetarian dishes to try?

Yes! Try ashlyan-fu, a cold noodle dish from Karakol often served vegetarian, or samsa filled with vegetables or pumpkin. In Osh, you can also find maida manty, which are ravioli/dumplings/stuffed pasta filled with potatoes or spinach.  You can also find fresh dairy products, homemade breads, and seasonal fruit preserves in local guesthouses and bazaars. Many of the large food bazaars have sections with “Korean salads” that are vegetarian/vegan.