As we stepped into the stunning interior of Yurt, we were immediately met with the warm greeting and felt at home right away. We observed the stylish design of the restaurant which gave an ode to the kazak culture and traditions in every detail.
The best way to start the culinary adventure at Yurt is definitely ordering a meat platter, a selection of Baursaks as well as the Samsa. The meat platter featured Kazy-the traditional delicacy made from horse meat, salted lamb fat and smoked rabbit meat. The samsa selection came in different shapes and had camel, horse and lamb inside. We loved the presentation of everything and the freshness of the Baursaks.
For the main course we indulged on Kazak meat, or Besbarmak which came with bouillon sprinkled with Kurt (local salty dry cheese). Besbarmak is one of the most famous and popular dishes that is served on special occasions both at Tois (celebrations) and important family gatherings. We also tried the lamb heart on a buckwheat bed which was very rich in texture and flavour.
If you feel brave enough to try something out of your comfort zone, our team recommends the traditional Lamb Head which historically is served to the most important guest.
The Yurt team will happily bring you the head cut into small slices with the flat bread on the side so you can enjoy it after getting done with your pictures. The sheep’s brain is served separately as well.
To end things on a sweet note we chose two desserts that were definitely very different to any desserts we had in Almaty. One featured buckwheat popcorn and buckthorn jam and was a very exciting combination of texture and taste. The other dessert came in a form of Asyk, or a sheep bone used in a popular game. We loved its look and how the chef playfully played with the inspiration and the taste.
A special pride of the Yurt project is the region’s first Qymyz Bar — a complete gastronomic experience led by a professional kumys sommelier. Guests are introduced to 20 varieties of kumys, sourced from 11 regions of Kazakhstan — from light and fresh to aged and deeply fermented.
Our verdict: Yurt is a perfect choice whether you love Kazakh cuisine like a local or discover it as a foreigner. Come here with your colleagues and your family and you will definitely be inspired by the stories shared here.
About the Project
Yurta Boutique Hotel & Restaurant opens its doors in Almaty — the first boutique hotel inspired by the Turkic world, its culture, the voice of the steppe, and the heart of the nomad. This is not just a beautiful location or a trendy restaurant. It’s a place where you suddenly remember who you are. Where the food smells like childhood, silence sounds deeper than music, and the air is filled with authenticity.
The project was created by the Sun Group restaurant holding, under the direction of Alexander Orlov. This is not just another venue — it’s an invitation to pause, reflect, and feel: here, there is essence, warmth, and sincerity.
For more information and reservations, please visit yurtaalmaty.com and follow yurta.almaty
