Almaty’s local markets and street food corners offer an authentic taste of Kazakh daily life—vibrant, aromatic, and full of color. From bustling bazaars to roadside stalls serving hot samsa, the city’s street food culture is a treat for adventurous eaters and bargain hunters alike. Here are the top markets and street food spots to explore in Almaty.
1. Green Bazaar (Zelyony Bazaar)
Why visit: Almaty’s most famous traditional market, offering everything from spices to sweets.
Highlights: – Dried fruits and nuts – Fresh meat and kumis – Local cheese and kurt – Friendly haggling culture
Timing: 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM
Entry: Free
2. Kok Bazaar Food Stalls
Why visit: Small food section within Green Bazaar where you can eat like a local.
Highlights: – Fresh samsa and shashlik – Boiled manti dumplings – Ayran and tea – Shared tables available
Timing: 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Entry: Pay per item (₹100–₹300)
3. Arbat Pedestrian Street
Why visit: Almaty’s central walking street lined with souvenir stands and mobile food carts.
Highlights: – Corn on the cob – Ice cream and sweet pastries – Cotton candy and popcorn – Local music vibe
Timing: 11:00 AM to 10:00 PM
Entry: Free; snacks ₹50–₹200
4. Outside Dostyk Plaza
Why visit: A modern shopping area with casual street food kiosks around its entrance.
Highlights: – Wraps and sandwiches – Bubble tea and smoothies – Outdoor seating – Great evening hangout
Timing: 12:00 PM to 10:00 PM
Entry: Free; food from ₹200–₹400
5. Nighttime Shashlik Stalls (Al-Farabi Ave)
Why visit: Grilled meat lovers can’t miss these smoky kebab stalls open till late.
Highlights: – Chicken, lamb, and liver shashlik – Flatbread and raw onion sides – Cooked over charcoal
Timing: 6:00 PM to 1:00 AM
Entry: ₹300–₹500 per plate
6. Food Trucks at First President’s Park
Why visit: A scenic park setting with mobile food options, especially in summer.
Highlights: – Hot dogs and plov bowls – Seasonal drinks – Benches for picnics – Weekend crowds
Timing: 3:00 PM to 9:00 PM (seasonal)
Entry: Free; food from ₹150–₹350
7. Market near Sayran Bus Station
Why visit: A more local market atmosphere with cheap eats and no tourist markup.
Highlights: – Fried pastries and samsa – Cheap plov portions – Everyday Kazakh fare
Timing: 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Entry: Free; meals ₹100–₹250
8. Local Bakery Stalls (citywide)
Why visit: Grab freshly baked baursak, lepyoshka (round bread), and pies from morning till noon.
Highlights: – Simple, warm snacks – Sweet and savory options – Often sold on sidewalks
Timing: 7:00 AM to 12:00 PM
Entry: ₹30–₹100 per piece
9. University Area Food Corners (Abay Ave)
Why visit: Budget-friendly food courts serving quick Kazakh and Uyghur bites for students.
Highlights: – Lagman bowls – Noodle stir-fry – Russian-style piroshki – Quick and cheap
Timing: 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM
Entry: ₹100–₹300 per meal
10. Weekend Pop-up Markets
Why visit: Artisanal food events pop up in parks and squares with handmade snacks and local treats.
Highlights: – Honey, jams, and cheese – Street musicians – Craft stalls – Family-friendly vibe
Timing: Weekends, 11:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Entry: Free; snacks from ₹150–₹400
