Mongolian cuisine is simple, hearty, and closely connected to the country’s nomadic lifestyle. Meals are often based on meat, flour, dairy products, and warm drinks, reflecting the practical needs of life on the steppe.
During a journey in Mongolia, travellers may try traditional dishes such as buuz, khuushuur, tsuivan, khorkhog, soups, handmade noodles, and home-style meals prepared at ger camps or by local families. In the countryside, food is usually simple, filling, and freshly prepared.
In Ulaanbaatar and larger towns, there are more dining options, including Mongolian restaurants, cafés, bakeries, Korean, Japanese, European, and other international cuisine. Vegetarian and special-diet options are easier to arrange in the city than in remote areas.
Mongolia also has a strong dairy culture. Depending on the season, guests may taste products such as yogurt, dried curds, cream, cheese, butter, and airag — fermented mare’s milk. Suutei tsai, traditional salted milk tea, is commonly served to guests and is an important part of local hospitality.
Must-Try Dishes & Drinks
Khorkhog
A traditional meat dish made with lamb or goat, vegetables, and heated stones. Often prepared for guests, family gatherings, and special occasions.
Buuz
Steamed dumplings filled with minced meat and onion. One of Mongolia’s most popular dishes, especially during Tsagaan Sar, the Lunar New Year celebration.
Khuushuur
A fried meat-filled pastry, crispy on the outside and juicy inside. Commonly enjoyed during Naadam Festival and in local restaurants.
Tsuivan
Handmade noodles cooked with meat and vegetables. A filling everyday meal often served in homes, camps, and countryside stops.
Suutei Tsai
Traditional salted milk tea made with tea, milk, water, and salt. It is commonly offered to guests as a sign of hospitality.
Airag
Fermented mare’s milk with a sour, refreshing taste. It is most common in summer and is an important part of Mongolia’s dairy culture.
Boortsog
Fried dough pieces often served with tea, cream, butter, or dairy products. A simple and popular homemade snack.
Aaruul
Dried curds made from milk. It has a firm texture and a sour dairy taste, and is commonly eaten by nomadic families.
Dining Tips
- tips_and_updatesMeals in the countryside are usually simple, hearty, and based on local ingredients
- tips_and_updatesVegetarian and special-diet meals should be requested in advance
- tips_and_updatesUlaanbaatar offers more international restaurants and flexible dining options
- tips_and_updatesBottled or purified water is recommended during countryside travel
- tips_and_updatesCarrying light snacks is useful for long driving days
- tips_and_updatesTrying milk tea or local dairy products is a good way to experience Mongolian hospitality
Food on your tour
Steppe Travel arranges meals according to your itinerary, route, and accommodation type. Please tell us in advance about allergies, dietary restrictions, vegetarian preferences, or any foods you prefer to avoid.