Tashkent , Uzbekistan

Tashkent Vegan Street Food Tour

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(22 reviews)

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Manual confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

We will show you Tashkent unbeknown to tourists and visitors and cover different parts of the city including two markets: in the traditional old town and the busy city centre, each offering their best-known local street food.

As vegans who grew up in this meat-heavy city we were able to pick the best-to-offer spots for local plant-based street food and wanted to share our knowledge with others and tell the story of our city in a personal and unique way.

That means we don't want to make it a typical boring tour of eating food from place to place all the time. Instead we will happily customise it on the go with walks, pictures, stories and people.

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Part of the money from the tour goes to support imprisoned vegan activists.

Available options

Tashkent Vegan Street Food Tour

Pickup included

What's included

Private transportation

All food and tea is included in the price during the tour

Detailed itinerary

We will start the tour with the oldest and most picturesque bazaar in Tashkent located in the old town and head straight to the 'Gluttony Lane' for the all-city-known Khanum - potato pastries in rich tomato sauce. À la lasagne but faster and better.

Stop 2

After leaving the bustling market, we'll stroll through the narrow, winding alleys of Tashkent's Old City. Take a moment to soak in the leisurely pace of local life as we notice the neighborhood children at play. Our destination is the Xadra neighborhood, where we will sample delicious, fresh-made steamed dumplings (manti) right before our eyes. Depending on the season, you can choose from wonderful savory fillings such as pumpkin, spinach, potato, or a vibrant vegetable mix!

We will then head to Oloy market - a centrally located farmer's market. We will try Uzbek round bread staffed with traditional Korean salads popular among local school students during lunchtime.

We will end the tour at a local restaurant (not far from the National Library) that dared to adapt local dishes into veganized ones. And yes, we will try the oxymoron of Central Asian cuisine: vegan beshbarmak, a traditionally Kazakh meaty dish turned into a plant-based wonder.

Available languages

Guide guide

RU EN

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

11 reviews

5★

4★

3★

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1★

Tripadvisor 5.0

11 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Service animals allowed

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

About Tashkent

Tashkent, the capital of Uzbekistan, is a vibrant city that blends modern urban life with rich historical heritage. Known for its Soviet-era architecture, bustling bazaars, and beautiful parks, it offers a unique mix of cultures and experiences. The city's rapid development and strategic location make it a gateway to Central Asia.

Top Attractions

Khast Imam Complex

This historic religious complex houses the Osman Quran, one of the world's oldest Qurans. It's a significant site for Islamic pilgrimage.

Historical/Religious 1-2 hours Free (small fee for the museum)

Chorsu Bazaar

One of the oldest and largest bazaars in Central Asia, Chorsu offers a vibrant atmosphere with a variety of goods, from fresh produce to traditional crafts.

Market/Cultural 1-2 hours Free to enter, prices vary for goods

Amir Timur Square

Named after the famous conqueror, this square is the heart of Tashkent, surrounded by beautiful architecture and monuments.

Historical 30 minutes to 1 hour Free

Tashkent Metro

The Tashkent Metro is not just a mode of transport but a work of art, with beautifully decorated stations showcasing Soviet-era design.

Architecture/Historical 1-2 hours for a full tour 1,200-1,500 UZS per ride

Tashkent TV Tower

The Tashkent TV Tower is the tallest structure in Uzbekistan, offering panoramic views of the city from its observation deck.

Architecture/Adventure 1-2 hours Moderate (entry fee for the observation deck and suspension bridge)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Plov

A rice dish cooked with carrots, meat (usually lamb or beef), and spices. It's a staple of Uzbek cuisine and often served at celebrations.

Main dish Contains meat, can be made with chicken or vegetarian versions

Lagman

A noodle soup with meat, vegetables, and a rich broth. It's a comforting and hearty dish, often enjoyed for lunch.

Main dish Contains meat, can be made with chicken or vegetarian versions

Shashlik

Grilled skewers of marinated meat, usually lamb or beef. It's a popular street food and often served with onions and flatbread.

Main dish Contains meat, can be made with chicken or vegetarian versions

Samsa

Baked pastries filled with meat, pumpkin, or potatoes. They are a popular street food and can be found in bakeries and markets.

Snack Can be vegetarian or with meat

Popular Activities

Hiking in the nearby mountains Exploring the Chimgon Water Park Visiting the hot springs in Chimgon Enjoying a traditional tea ceremony Exploring the Khast Imam Complex Visiting the Tashkent Metro stations Swimming in the Chimgon Water Park Skiing in the nearby mountains

Best Time to Visit

April to June, September to October

These months offer pleasant weather, ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. The city is vibrant with festivals and cultural events.

15°C to 30°C 59°F to 86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Uzbek
Widely spoken: Russian
English: Limited

Currency

Uzbekistani Som (UZS)

Time Zone

GMT+5

Electricity

220VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Tashkent is generally safe for travelers, with low crime rates and a strong police presence. However, petty crime and scams can occur, especially in crowded areas and tourist spots.

Important Precautions:

• Use official taxis or app-based services
• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Be cautious of strangers offering unsolicited help or services

Getting there

By air

Tashkent International Airport • 10 km from city center

By train

Tashkent Railway Station

By bus

Tashkent International Bus Terminal, Seragelsk Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

The metro is clean, efficient, and affordable. It's the fastest way to get around the city.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Yandex.Taxi, Uber

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Old City City Center Yunusabad District Seragelsk

Day trips

Chimgon

25 km from Tashkent • Half day to full day

Chimgon is a popular resort town known for its hot springs, parks, and recreational facilities. It's a great place to relax and enjoy nature.

Ohangaron

70 km from Tashkent • Full day

Ohangaron is a picturesque area known for its natural beauty, hiking trails, and traditional Uzbek villages. It's a great place for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

Jomboy Valley

80 km from Tashkent • Full day to overnight

Jomboy Valley is a stunning area known for its natural beauty, hiking trails, and traditional Uzbek villages. It's a great place for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

Festivals

Tashkent Fashion Week • April Tashkent International Film Festival • September Navruz (Nowruz) • March 21

Pro tips

Learn a few basic phrases in Uzbek or Russian to enhance your experience and interact with locals
Use the metro for a unique and efficient way to get around the city, and take the time to appreciate the beautiful station designs
Visit the Chorsu Bazaar early in the morning for the freshest produce and fewer crowds
Try a traditional Uzbek plov cooking class for a unique and delicious cultural experience
Explore the city's parks and green spaces, such as the Amir Timur Museum Park and the Tashkent Botanical Garden, for a relaxing and scenic break from the bustling city