Kitana: Uma Thurman’s Elegance Meets Tashkent’s Dining Scene

When a major hospitality group takes on an unconventional concept, it’s a good sign: the city is afforded time to try it out and get used to the novelty, and the project secures enough investment to keep experimenting without burning out too soon. Seafood in Uzbekistan? Always a gamble. Asian grill in a country with a deep-rooted shish kebab tradition? Some might call it madness or sheer audacity. But not Kitana. This samurai has a clear mission (and, by the way, Tashkent just got its first international franchise) and a path carved out for success.

What you shouldn’t come to Kitana for? Generic sushi rolls — the kind you’d find at chain spots that have come to define Asian cuisine in Tashkent. The truth is, there’s so much more to explore beyond the tired «salmon-rice-nori-cheese» combo and soy sauce-drenched bites. That said, the first thing that catches your eye inside is the ceiling designed to resemble wooden makisu mats — fresh and unexpected, though at some point, your brain might involuntarily start craving sushi rolls. But let’s not stare at the ceiling too long. Instead, dive into the menu — Kitana is here to surprise your palate.

Much of it falls under «exotic for Tashkent», so don’t hesitate to ask the staff for guidance. You might discover the tangy-spicy kimchi pineapple, a scallop hand roll, or a signature ramen with shabu beef. Then there’s the Japanese curry — green, surprisingly — with chicken that’s less fiery than its Indian counterpart but more intricate in its lingering aftertaste. And just when you think you’ve seen it all, Kitana bares its soul. Seafood skewers and robata-grilled Japanese beef deliver flavors so refreshing, they summon a Kyoto-like zen even in Tashkent’s scorching heat.

The restaurant features a curated selection of sake and soju, crafts original cocktails, and offers a solid lineup of premium spirits — but here’s an unexpected tip: try their Americano. Smooth, rich, and almost whispering “Another cup?» — it’s a barista’s love letter. Who knew a Pan-Asian restaurant would make you fall for coffee? Some things just can’t be planned.

As a Novikov project, Kitana delivers predictable glamour: a celebration of japandi aesthetics, light wood tones, enigmatic hieroglyphs adorning the ceiling, and an open kitchen. Bonus points for the live bonsai in the restroom. This is the place for high-stakes business dinners, unconventional dates, or if you want to surprise city guests with something beyond pilaf. The prices? Steep. Locals are learning to accept them like a double-locked country tax. But the food — worth every sum.

Photos: restaurant press service