Ulaanbaatar eats better than you expect. A curated guide to modern Mongolian, authentic local, fine dining, coffee, brunch, and hot pot in the capital.
Oyungerel Enkhbat
Rosewood Bistro: Chef Dugar's modern takes on Mongolian classics. Khorkhog with beetroot reduction. Buuz with lemongrass. Our favourite for first-time guests. Reserve ahead.
Modern Nomads: An institution. Classic Mongolian prepared well, Mongolian musicians live nightly, tourist-friendly but authentic. Three UB locations.
Khaan Buuz: The national dumpling chain. Cheap, fast, everywhere. A meal for 2 USD.
Broadway Pizza (yes, really): Mongolian-owned, Mongolian-interpretation pizza. Try the Mongolian pizza with diced horse meat and feta. Not tourist-facing; beloved by locals.
SkyLounge Hennessy, Shangri-La: Cocktails with city views, European menu executed well. Sunset timing.
Hutong, Shangri-La: Authentic Northern Chinese. Excellent dim sum, Peking duck, and handmade noodles.
Novel, Best Western Premier: New, ambitious, modernist Mongolian tasting menus. 8-course for 150 USD. Requires a week booking.
Mongol Kopi: Mongolian specialty coffee roaster. Single origin flights available. Scandinavian industrial vibe.
Tom n Tom: Korean chain but the UB branch serves excellent brunch.
Green Zone Cafe: Organic, all-vegetarian menu. Rare in UB.
Shifu Hot Pot: Mongolian-Chinese fusion hot pot. Exceptional broth. Near Zaisan.
TaoLi: Higher-end hot pot. Chinese expats love it.
Osh: Uzbek and Uyghur. Plov, lagman, kebabs. Warm welcome.
Hazara: Best Indian restaurant in Asia north of Delhi. Surprising, essential.
Grand Khaan Irish Pub: The local expat scene. Decent fish and chips. Live sports.
Brau Meister: German beer hall. Excellent local sausages.
Veranda Cafe: Upscale, quiet, espresso-quality. Our remote-worker guests love it.
Solongo Cafe: Cosier, with views of the Gandan monastery golden spire.
Chain fast food. You can get KFC anywhere. Come to UB for Mongolian.