Top Local Dishes & Where to Try Them in Tbilisi, Georgia

1. Khinkali ( meat dumplings)

Delicious Georgian dumplings filled with spiced meat. Try them at Khinkali House.

Authentic Experience: A local favorite spot for authentic khinkali in Tbilisi.
Variety of Fillings: Choose from various meat fillings like pork, beef, and lamb.
Social Eating: Shared in groups, khinkali are not only a meal but also a social experience.

Gooey, cheesy bread boat with an egg in the center. Don't miss Adjaruli Khachapuri.

Iconic Georgian Dish: A must-try traditional Georgian dish, representing the country's love for cheese.
Customizable Toppings: Add extra cheese or spices to suit your taste at popular khachapuri spots.
Perfect for Sharing: Sharing a large, cheesy bread boat with friends makes this dish even more enjoyable.

Tender chicken stewed in a creamy mushroom sauce. Try it at Shoti's Palace.

Warm and Hearty: Perfect comfort food for cold Tbilisi evenings.
Traditional Cooking Technique: Prepared using the Georgian method of slow cooking in a large, cast-iron pot.
Versatile Ingredients: Vegetarian and vegan versions also available.

Spiced bean stew cooked in a clay pot. Enjoy it at Mtsvane Conca.

Rich History: Traditionally cooked and served in a Georgian-style clay pot.
Healthy and Nutritious: A vegetarian dish rich in protein, fiber, and iron.
Wide Availability: Found on menus of many local restaurants throughout Tbilisi.

Cold turkey or chicken dish served in a walnut sauce. Try it at Satsivi House.

Unique Taste: Combines the rich, nutty flavor of walnuts with the taste of turkey or chicken.
Cold Dish Option: A refreshing change from the hot dishes typically found in Georgian cuisine.
Festive Presentation: Served with whole spices and pomegranate seeds, making it visually appealing.

Delicate fried fish coated in a garlicky sauce. Try it at Fish House.

Seafood Option: A great choice for seafood lovers looking to try local dishes.
Garlic Lover's Delight: Bold garlic flavor creates a unique and tasty experience.
Fresh Ingredients: Sourced from the Black Sea, ensuring freshness and quality.

Cold herb dip made with walnuts, beets, or spinach. Try it at Café Leila.

Variety of Flavors: Several versions available, each offering a unique taste.
Healthy Choice: A vegetarian and vegan-friendly option made with wholesome ingredients.
Refreshing Appetizer: Ideal for starting a meal on a hot day in Tbilisi.

Sweet candy made from nuts, grape juice, and cornstarch. Try it at local markets.

Traditional Treat: A popular Georgian snack with a long-standing tradition.
Portable and Shareable: Easily shared among friends or purchased as souvenirs.
Unique Texture: The chewy, nutty texture makes churchkhela a fun and tasty treat.

Cabbage rolls filled with walnut-herb paste. Try it at Mtsvane Conca.

Traditional Recipe: A classic dish that showcases the blend of Georgian flavors.
Vegetarian Friendly: An excellent option for vegetarians looking to try traditional Georgian cuisine.
Cultural Significance: Historically, badrijani kharcho was a dish served during important events and celebrations.

Cold bean salad flavored with walnuts, garlic, and herbs. Try it at Mtsvane Conca.

Refreshing Side Dish: A cooling side dish perfect for pairing with spicier main dishes.
Vegetarian and Vegan Friendly: Made with simple, wholesome ingredients suitable for vegetarians and vegans.
Versatile Ingredients: Can be made using a variety of beans available in Tbilisi markets.

Brine-pickled tomatoes served as a side dish. Try it at local markets or restaurants.

Tangy Accompaniment: A tangy and refreshing addition to Georgian meals.
Preserving Freshness: Pickling tomatoes helps preserve fresh produce for longer periods.
Versatile Use: Can be used as a side dish, ingredient in salads, or condiment.

Juicy and flavorful meat skewers grilled over an open flame. Try it at local markets or restaurants.

Barbecue Delight: Delicious barbecue-style dish that is popular throughout Tbilisi.
Variety of Meats: Choose from various meats like pork, beef, or lamb.
Social Eating: Shared among friends and family, making it a fun and social experience.

Tart plum sauce served as an accompaniment to grilled meats. Try it at local markets or restaurants.

Traditional Condiment: A traditional Georgian condiment that complements grilled meats perfectly.
Tart and Tangy: The tart flavor provides a contrast to the rich flavors of grilled meats.
Made with Local Ingredients: Uses locally grown plums, enhancing its freshness and flavor.

Sample locally produced wines like Alabadro and Kindzmarauli. Visit wine cellars in Tbilisi.

Rich Wine History: Georgia is the birthplace of winemaking, with a history dating back over 8,000 years.
Unique Production Methods: Traditional Georgian wine-making methods use qvevri clay pots for fermentation.
Variety of Styles: Experience a wide range of wines, from dry to sweet and still to sparkling.

Sample the strong spirit made from the pressings of grape pomace. Visit local bars.

Strength and Flavor: Chacha is a high-proof spirit with a distinct flavor profile.
Local Tradition: Traditionally produced as a byproduct of wine production in Georgia.
Sharing and Socializing: Chacha is often shared among friends and enjoyed in social settings.