Bishkek City Hall taken from the Toktogul Satylganov Philharmonic Square
About Bishkek & Kyrgyzstan
Бишкек formerly Pishpek and Frunze
Beautifully situated at the foot of huge snowcapped Western Tien Shan mountains at an elevation of 800 meters, Bishkek is a former Soviet city with a mellow, friendly atmosphere, lots of trees, large parks, wide avenues, and monumental squares with World War II monuments. The Kyrgyz Republic is located in the northeastern part of Central Asia, occupies the western part of the Tien Shan mountain system and the northern mountainous regions of the Pamir-Alai. More than 80% of the republic's territory is located at an altitude of more than 1,500 meters above sea level.
The Kyrgyz, an ethnic group known in Central Asia already in the first millennium BC, have conveyed their identity and culture through the centuries to the present day. Certain objects of intangible cultural heritage, such as the trilogy of the epic “Manas”, the traditional dwelling of nomadic peoples “Yurt”, types of felt carpet “Shyrdak” and “Ala kiyiz” are included in the UNESCO World Heritage List.
CAFÉS
My favorite cafés in Bishkek
Friend's Coffee
A lively all-day café with an outdoor terrace that serves everything you could want from a hearty breakfast and brunch to evening cocktails.
Address:
125 Toktogul Street
What I like about it
The best brunch spot in Bishkek but if you go at any time of day there will always be something delicious on the menu, even Southeast Asian food!
Social Coffee
A cozy yet posh café with a wide outdoor terrace that also offers a playground for kids. Here one can let the kids play while enjoying the meal.
Address:
62 Razzakov Street
What I like about it
It boasts a perfect spot that is located in the center of Bishkek. It is known for its signature breakfast menus and the healthy salad bowls.
Sushi Room
A cafe restaurant with an impressive Asian-inspired interior. The food here is delicious but can be more expensive than the average price in Bishkek.
Address:
30 Erkindik Avenue
What I like about it
It is located in front of a nice park along the Erkindik Avenue. It is not only known for its various sushi menus, but also for its tasty sweet cakes.
Usta Kafe
A Turkish restaurant with the typical turkish menu, all delicious fast and fresh. This is not for posh dining but good for a quick bite and casual meet ups.
Address:
68 Orozbekova St.
What I like about it
It is located in the center of Bishkek and the Ala too Square. The Baklava and a pot of tea are a must after enjoying a good turkish meal.