Where to Eat Cheap and Tasty in Bishkek: Top Canteens & Cafes

Kyrgyz cuisine is incredibly filling, meaty, and at the same time affordable. In Bishkek, you can dine like a king for just a few dollars if you avoid expensive tourist restaurants.

Canteen chain "Bufet": This is a lifesaver for any budget traveler. The canteens operate 24/7 in many locations across the city. Here you will find perfect cleanliness, modern interior, and a huge assortment of European and Asian dishes. A hearty meal (salad, soup, main course, and tea) will cost you about 200–280 KGS (about $2.5–$3.5).

Local chaikhanas: If you want a real national atmosphere, go to small cafes in the Rabochiy Gorok area (just 10-15 minutes walk from Too Too Hostel). Try boso lagman (fried hand-pulled noodles), juicy manti with chopped meat, or shorpo (rich mutton soup). Be sure to order a hot flatbread and a teapot of green tea with any dish.

Portion advice: In most traditional places, portions are simply huge. Do not rush to order many dishes at once — one portion of lagman or plov is usually more than enough to keep you full for half a day.