Khiva, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is known for its well-preserved Silk Road architecture and rich culinary traditions. The city's cuisine reflects centuries of Uzbek heritage, offering dishes like Khorezm-style plov, shivit oshi (green noodles), and grilled kebabs. Here are the top 10 restaurants in Khiva where you can enjoy authentic Uzbek flavors.
1. Terrassa Café & Restaurant
Located in the heart of Ichan Kala, this rooftop restaurant offers breathtaking views of Khiva’s minarets while serving delicious Khorezm-style plov, grilled meats, and fresh salads.
Location: Islam Khodja Complex
2. Bir Gumbaz Restaurant
A cozy restaurant inside a historic caravanserai, Bir Gumbaz is famous for its shivit oshi (dill-infused noodles with meat and yogurt), tandir meat, and pumpkin samsa.
Location: Near the West Gate of Ichan Kala
3. Yasavul Boshi
For a royal Uzbek dining experience, this restaurant serves traditional dishes in a beautifully restored madrasa. Their plov, lagman, and lamb kebabs are highly recommended.
Location: Near Juma Mosque
4. Khiva Moon Restaurant
A hidden gem with a peaceful courtyard, Khiva Moon specializes in grilled fish, homemade bread, and Uzbek dumplings (manti). The atmosphere is perfect for a relaxed meal.
Location: K. Yormatov Street
5. Mirzaboshi Restaurant
This authentic Uzbek eatery serves some of the best handmade samsa, hearty soups, and slow-cooked lamb dishes in Khiva. The traditional décor enhances the experience.
Location: Near Pahlavan Mahmud Mausoleum
6. Caravan Restaurant
Located in a historic Silk Road caravanserai, this restaurant offers a mix of Uzbek and Central Asian dishes, including stuffed grape leaves, shashlik, and flavorful pilaf.
Location: Near Tash Hauli Palace
7. Khorezm Art Café
A modern take on Uzbek cuisine, this café serves fusion dishes alongside traditional favorites like norin (cold noodle dish with horse meat) and fresh salads.
Location: Near Kunya Ark
8. Orient Star Restaurant
Housed in the former Mohammed Amin Khan Madrasa, this restaurant blends history with fine dining. Try their lamb chops, Khorezm-style plov, and fresh yogurt-based appetizers.
Location: Near Kalta Minor Minaret
9. Polvon Restaurant
A family-friendly spot with a laid-back atmosphere, Polvon is known for its grilled meats, fresh non (Uzbek bread), and hearty soups like shurpa.
Location: Itchan Kala District
10. Toza Bog Tea House
One of Khiva’s oldest traditional chaikhanas (tea houses), this spot offers herbal teas, local sweets, and savory pastries in a relaxing courtyard setting.
Location: Outside Ichan Kala
Final Thoughts
Khiva’s culinary scene is deeply rooted in tradition, offering a mix of classic Uzbek dishes, Khorezm specialties, and historic dining experiences. Whether you’re looking for a rooftop restaurant, a cozy tea house, or a Silk Road caravanserai, these top 10 restaurants in Khiva will leave you with unforgettable flavors.
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