How is gastrotourism changing Uzbekistan’s tourist image?

Uzbekistan is actively promoting its national cuisine globally by leveraging gastronomic tourism, viewing culinary traditions as key to boosting the country’s international recognition.

Modern gastronomy is increasingly regarded as a vital element of cultural diplomacy, bringing together diverse traditions and fostering new forms of international collaboration. Over centuries, culinary traditions grew along the trade routes of the Great Silk Road, making this approach a logical extension of cultural policy.

Tourism experts note that hosting international gastronomic events not only attracts foreign guests but also supports the growth of the restaurant business, the hotel industry, farms, and small businesses. Such events are becoming an additional reason to visit the country and to increase tourist flow.

Uzbekistan regularly hosts international gastronomic events. From May 18 to May 25, 2026, the international expedition “Gastronomic Map of Uzbekistan” took place in Uzbekistan, showcasing the culinary diversity of different regions.

Currently, dozens of tour operators offer specialized gastronomic tours as a primary way to promote national cuisine. Organizers describe these tours as unique travel experiences that enable travelers to explore regional or country-specific culture through local food. For gastrotourism to succeed, national dishes must be varied and distinct from familiar tourist foods. These tours typically include not only tastings but also cooking classes.

The growth of gastronomic tourism impacts much more than just the restaurant industry. Experts note that it also boosts related sectors such as hotels, farms supplying ingredients to restaurants, and small businesses overall.

Uzbekistan’s national cuisine is evolving from a source of national pride into a strategic means of international promotion. Events such as international festivals, regional gastronomic journeys, and culinary tour programs are organized to demonstrate that Uzbek culinary traditions are firmly embedded in the country’s culture and history. The increasing scale and consistency of these initiatives suggest that gastrotourism will likely become a key focus in future efforts to position Uzbekistan as a prominent tourist destination.

Orash Akaboyev, UzA