Vanilla at Medeu: Breakfasts, Coffee, and Pastries Now in the Mountains

The interior is instantly recognizable: the white vanilla color palette used across all the brand’s locations and an open space free of visual clutter. The central feature is the bar counter framed with wood, which does not obstruct the view of the baristas at work. Inside, there are several tables with comfortable, well-spaced seating; outside, a small summer terrace where you can sit facing the Zailiyskiy Alatau mountains and enjoy that very morning pause that draws Almaty residents up into the hills. Especially since terrace season in Almaty starts as early as February, and Vanilla becomes one of the first stops up there.

The menu mirrors the city locations but includes one important addition — a hearty mountain breakfast designed for those who have already taken a morning hike or came to Medeu for a substantial meal. It features scrambled eggs, hash browns, and kimchi, priced at 3,900 KZT. There are also the beloved waffles, which can be customized with egg, avocado, salmon, or turkey.

During the day, Vanilla operates in its usual format: serving salads, soups, four types of fresh pasta, as well as hot dishes such as sous-vide chicken thigh or tender beef cheeks. There is also a dessert display that always draws attention: tartlets, pastries, croissants — something to take away if you feel like extending your breakfast.

The coffee menu remains one of Vanilla’s strongest features. It includes classics (Americano, cappuccino, latte) as well as signature drinks like irimshik raf or popcorn raf. There is also ceremonial-grade Uji Premium matcha, hot chocolate, cocoa, and signature teas (for example, ginger with lemon) — a full set for those looking for something warming after a walk. And for those who prefer something refreshing, new options have been introduced: blueberry–lime tea and blueberry–lemon lemonade — their flavors open up especially vividly in the mountain air.

Photo: restaurant websites and social media; Yandex Maps