Kazan, the capital of Tatarstan, is home to a rich culinary tradition, blending Russian, Tatar, and Turkic influences. One of the more unique aspects of Tatar cuisine is the use of horse meat, which has been a staple in the region’s diet for centuries. Horse meat is considered tender and flavorful, often featured in dishes like horse meat kebabs, stews, and even dried meats. While the consumption of horse meat may be uncommon in some parts of the world, it remains an important part of the cultural heritage in Tatarstan.
If you’re in Kazan and eager to try this traditional delicacy, here are some of the best restaurants in the city that serve high-quality horse meat dishes.
1. Tatarstan Restaurant
Tatarstan Restaurant is one of the most popular spots in Kazan to experience traditional Tatar cuisine, and it’s known for offering a wide range of local specialties, including dishes made with horse meat. The restaurant’s menu features horse meat kebabs and horse meat stew, both of which are tender and flavorful, cooked using traditional methods and served with fresh, local vegetables and herbs.
The décor of Tatarstan Restaurant is a blend of modern and traditional elements, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere for a relaxed meal. The service is exceptional, and the staff can help you choose the perfect drink to accompany your horse meat dish.
Insider Tip: Be sure to pair the horse meat kebab with some tatar pilaf for a complete and authentic Tatar experience.
2. Süleymaniye Restaurant
If you’re looking for a place that combines both Tatar and Middle Eastern influences, Süleymaniye Restaurant is the perfect spot. Known for its stylish design and fusion of flavors, this restaurant offers a selection of horse meat kebabs, grilled to perfection with aromatic spices that bring out the rich, tender flavors of the meat.
Süleymaniye also offers a variety of side dishes like hummus, baba ghanoush, and pilaf, which are perfect for pairing with your horse meat dishes. The ambiance is relaxed and elegant, making it ideal for a special dinner or gathering with friends.
Insider Tip: Try the horse meat shashlik, which is marinated and grilled to enhance the natural flavors of the meat. Pair it with a refreshing Turkish ayran or a glass of pomegranate juice.
3. Bahetle Restaurant
Located in the center of Kazan, Bahetle is a renowned establishment that combines high-quality ingredients with the flavors of Tatar and Russian cuisine. Bahetle offers a variety of traditional dishes, including those made with horse meat. Their horse meat plov (pilaf) is a popular choice, combining tender meat with aromatic rice, vegetables, and a blend of spices.
Bahetle is known for its welcoming atmosphere and exceptional service, making it a perfect destination for those looking to try horse meat in a more refined setting. The restaurant’s modern yet cozy décor adds to the dining experience, making it a favorite for locals and visitors alike.
Insider Tip: Don’t miss out on their horse meat samsa (savory pastries), which are a perfect combination of crispy pastry and flavorful filling.
4. Kazanlarr
Kazanlarr is a high-end restaurant offering an upscale take on Tatar cuisine, and it’s an excellent place to try horse meat in a luxurious setting. The restaurant serves horse meat steaks, horse meat kebabs, and even horse meat borscht, prepared with the finest cuts of meat and traditional Tatar spices. The meat is expertly cooked, ensuring tenderness and rich flavor in every bite.
The elegant atmosphere at Kazanlarr, combined with its exceptional service, makes it a top choice for those wanting to sample horse meat in a fine dining environment. The restaurant also offers a well-curated selection of wines to complement your meal.
Insider Tip: Try the horse meat steak, which is cooked to your preferred level of doneness and served with a side of grilled vegetables and savory sauce.
5. Tatarskaya Usadba
For a more rustic and authentic Tatar dining experience, Tatarskaya Usadba is an excellent choice. This restaurant is dedicated to serving traditional Tatar dishes, and horse meat is one of the highlights. Their horse meat plov and horse meat kebabs are made with locally sourced meat and served with fresh herbs and vegetables, making them a perfect representation of Tatar cuisine.
Tatarskaya Usadba’s traditional décor, with wooden beams and rustic furniture, creates a cozy and inviting atmosphere for a family meal or a gathering with friends. The food here is hearty, flavorful, and deeply rooted in Tatar culture.
Insider Tip: For a unique experience, try their horse meat in broth—a warming and comforting dish that pairs well with fresh tatar bread.
6. Chaihana
Chaihana offers a blend of Russian and Central Asian flavors, making it an excellent place to enjoy horse meat in a relaxed, stylish setting. The restaurant is known for its wide selection of grilled meats, including horse meat, which is prepared using traditional grilling methods. Their horse meat shashlik is marinated with spices and cooked to perfection, offering a rich and flavorful experience.
The ambiance at Chaihana is cozy yet vibrant, with warm colors and inviting seating areas that make it an ideal spot for a leisurely meal with family or friends. The restaurant also offers a variety of other dishes from the region, making it a great place to explore Central Asian and Russian flavors.
Insider Tip: Pair the horse meat shashlik with lavash (Armenian flatbread) and a refreshing pomegranate juice for a complete experience.
7. Kremlin Restaurant
If you’re looking for a luxurious setting to try traditional horse meat dishes, Kremlin Restaurant offers a sophisticated atmosphere with breathtaking views of the Kazan Kremlin. This upscale restaurant serves a range of gourmet dishes, including expertly prepared horse meat kebabs and horse meat plov. The chefs at Kremlin Restaurant take great care to prepare the horse meat, ensuring a tender and flavorful dish every time.
The interior of the restaurant is elegant, featuring grand chandeliers and plush seating, perfect for a special night out. With exceptional service and an extensive wine list, Kremlin Restaurant is a great place for those looking to indulge in a high-end dining experience.
Insider Tip: The horse meat kebabs are a standout dish here—grilled over an open flame, they have a smoky depth of flavor that pairs wonderfully with a glass of red wine.
Conclusion
Sampling horse meat is a must-try experience for those visiting Kazan and wanting to explore the rich culinary traditions of Tatarstan. From traditional plov and kebabs to luxurious steaks and stews, Kazan’s top restaurants offer a wide variety of dishes made with high-quality horse meat. Whether you’re visiting Tatarskaya Usadba for an authentic rustic experience or enjoying the refined atmosphere at Kazanlarr, these restaurants provide a perfect opportunity to discover the flavors and textures of one of Tatarstan’s most beloved ingredients. Enjoying horse meat in Kazan is a truly unforgettable culinary experience that will leave you with a deeper appreciation for the region’s rich food culture.
