GASTRONOMIC TOURISM IN SAMARKAND: THE ROLE OF MODERN RESTAURANTS IN PROMOTING UZBEK NATIONAL CUISINE

This article explores the growing significance of gastronomic tourism in Samarkand through the lens of modern restaurants that serve traditional Uzbek dishes. It examines how establishments such as Osh Markazi, Platan, Bibikhanum, and others preserve and present national dishes like osh (pilaf), manti, dolma, shashlik, and more in an environment that combines high-quality service with authentic cultural experience. The paper aims to demonstrate how gastronomy enhances the tourist experience and contributes to cultural preservation and economic development.