Nestled in the bustling heart of Almaty, Kazakhstan, Na Kirova Shashlik stands as a testament to classic Central Asian cuisine. Located at Bogenbai Batyr Street 72, this unpretentious shashlichnaya (kebab house) has earned its reputation as a go-to spot for locals and in-the-know travellers seeking the true flavours of Central Asia. Far from the glitzy tourist traps, Na Kirova offers an authentic experience that's equal parts delicious and affordable, making it a staple in Almaty's food landscape.
What draws people to Na Kirova?
At the heart of it, it's the shashlik (Shashlik is the Russian word for what most people know as Kebabs, essentially marinated meat on long metal skewers) —the skewered, marinated meats grilled over open wood coals that infuse every bite with smoky, savoury perfection. The menu boasts a variety of options: tender lamb that's juicy and well-seasoned, succulent chicken, robust beef, delicious pork and even unique twists like liver or mushroom shashlik. The highlight for many is the duck, with the skin and fat being perfectly rendered.
Beyond the star attraction of shashlik, Na Kirova's menu offers a range of complementary dishes that round out a satisfying meal. Fresh salads like the classic Kazakh onion and tomato salad provide a crisp, tangy contrast to the rich meats. Sides include golden french fries, fluffy pilaf (plov) made with tender rice, carrots, and sometimes lamb, and warm, soft lavash or naan bread perfect for wrapping up bites. For those wanting something heartier, options like grilled vegetables—such as zucchini or eggplant—add a vegetarian-friendly touch. Soups, including hearty shurpa (a traditional lamb broth with potatoes and herbs), are available for cooler days. Desserts are simple but delightful, featuring Kazakh staples like chak-chak (honey-soaked fried dough) or fresh fruit platters. These items keep the focus on quality ingredients and traditional preparation, ensuring a balanced Kazakh dining experience without overwhelming the kebab theme.
Those who know the menu well head straight to the Hichini, a delicious cheesy flat bread originating in the North Caucasus.
Cheap Beer at Na Kirova
One of the unsung heroes of a meal at Na Kirova is the selection of cheap, refreshing beers that perfectly complement the smoky shashlik. Kazakhstan's beer culture is robust, and Na Kirova leans into it with budget-friendly options that keep the vibe laid-back and accessible. The star is Zhiguli, a classic Soviet-era lager that's light, crisp, and malty with a clean finish—ideal for cutting through the richness of grilled meats. At just 500 tenge for a 0.5-liter bottle (about $1 USD), it's incredible value.
Another favourite is Shymkentskoye, hailing from southern Kazakhstan, offering a slightly sweeter profile with fruity notes that's refreshing on a warm day. Priced similarly at 600 tenge per half-litre, it's a local go-to that locals swear by for its authenticity. For variety, they also serve Efes Pilsener (Turkish import) or non-alcoholic options like Bavaria, but the real draw is the domestic drafts.
How to Get There
Getting to Na Kirova Shashlik at Bogenbay Batyr Street 72 is easy. By bus, take lines like 3, 4, or 12. The Alatau-1 metro station is about 1.5 km west or roughly a 20 minute walk. Taxis via apps like Yandex Go cost 500-800 tenge from the city centre, taking 10-15 minutes. If driving, street parking is available nearby. The restaurant is open daily from 10 AM to midnight.
The ambiance at Na Kirova is casual and inviting, especially during Almaty's mild summers when the open-air seating transforms the space into a relaxed outdoor haven. Imagine sitting under umbrellas on a pleasant fall evening, the aroma of grilling meat wafting through the air as you chat with friends. The interior is spacious and no-frills, accommodating up to 250 guests, making it ideal for large gatherings or quick bites. It's not a fancy spot but that's part of its charm.
Service here is prompt and polite, though it can vary with the crowds. On busy nights, waits might occur, but the efficient staff ensures orders arrive hot and fresh.
In a city like Almaty, where fusion cuisines abound, Na Kirova Shashlik reminds us of the simple joys of traditional barbequing. Whether you're a meat lover exploring Kazakh flavours or just craving a budget-friendly meal, this spot won't disappoint.
If this blog has your mouth watering and you want to get you hands on some of this delicious Central Asian BBQ then head over to our website and check out the
group tours we have available
. For more in depth information on how to travel to Kazakhstan, check out our comprehensive
Kazakhstan destination guide on our website.
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