International restaurant chains and new urban formats are boosting Tashkent’s tourist appeal
2026-05-01 20:35:00 / News

The development of urban infrastructure today is also linked to the growth of the HoReCa sector and improvements in the quality of the restaurant business. The restaurant industry is increasingly becoming part of the city’s lifestyle and the overall tourist experience, creating new points of attraction for both residents and visitors.
This dynamic is also noted by international experts. Henrik Winther, President of Tigrus Restaurant Holding—whose brands in Tashkent include Osteria Mario and Shvili, part of an international network of 89 restaurants worldwide across Europe, the Middle East, and Asia—emphasizes that Uzbekistan is now among the fastest-growing restaurant markets in the region. According to him, in recent years the country has seen a significant rise in the level of gastronomic concepts, stronger attention to service quality, and the emergence of a more mature dining culture. This creates a solid foundation for further industry development and for attracting international players.
The Government of Uzbekistan has set a strategic goal: to increase the number of foreign tourists from 12 million in 2026 to 20 million by 2030. The gastronomic industry will play an important role in achieving these targets.
Overall, the growing presence of international restaurant chains is becoming a key part of the transformation of Tashkent’s urban economy and its tourist appeal. The restaurant sector is increasingly contributing to shaping the image of a modern city where local culture and international culinary practices coexist. This creates a more diverse and competitive environment, increases interest among travelers, and supports Uzbekistan’s development as a dynamic and open tourist destination.






