Georgian Cuisine

Welcome to the page that explores Georgia’s culinary delights, including must-try dishes like khachapuri, khinkali, and churchkhela, and where to find the best traditional restaurants.

Food took second place after Wine and traditional Georgian songs and dances. Georgian cruising is full of flavors and tastes and is famous for using eco-products from the local gardens and farms.

In this article, we tried to combine the information and restaurant recommendations for every foodie person and anyone who wants to explore the taste of Georgia.

Must Try Georgian Dishes

Georgian cuisine is a patchwork of flavors, textures, and aromas that reflect the country’s rich history and various regional influences. For tourists who want to get into real Georgian food, here are some traditional Georgian dishes you must try:

Khachapuri – Georgia’s National Dish

Khachapuri is Georgia’s national identity on a plate. This is a cheese-filled bread and comes in various regional Georgian versions:

• Adjarian Khachapuri: Shaped like a boat, this one is filled with cottage cheese and topped with a raw egg yolk and a pat of butter. You eat it by dipping the bread into the egg yolk and butter to get a rich and creamy combination.
• Imeretian Khachapuri: Round and filled with a lot of cheese in the dough, this one is simpler but just as delicious.
• Khevsur Khachapuri: This bread is filled with fresh herbs and sometimes string beans, a nice twist on the classic cheese bread.

Preparation involves using leavened dough with sour milk to get a soft texture. The dough is rolled, filled with cottage cheese and many fresh herbs, and baked until golden brown. Served fresh from the oven, khachapuri is best eaten hot from Georgian restaurants or street food vendors.

Khinkali – Georgian Soup Dumplings

Khinkali are soup dumplings that are a part of Georgian cuisine. These traditional dishes are made by wrapping minced meat—beef, pork, or lamb – in a thin layer of dough. You eat them by holding the top knob, taking a small bite to get the broth inside, and then eating the rest of the dumplings.

• Kalakuri Khinkali: This is an urban version. It has a fresh and distinct flavor because fresh ingredients, like greens, are mixed with the meat.
• Spicy Beef Stew Khinkali: This dish combines Georgian spices with spicy beef stew elements, making it flavorful and rich.

Khinkali is best served with a sprinkle of ground coriander and pomegranate seeds, which add sweetness and acidity to the savory flavors.

Chakapuli – Spicy Lamb Stew

Chakapuli is a spicy beef stew that showcases the lamb meat in Georgian cuisine. This hearty dish is made by stewing veal or lamb with fresh herbs, onions, hot peppers, and garlic. Sour plum sauce (tkemali) and Wine are added during the cooking process, making the stew tangy and aromatic.

Variations:

• Veal Chakapuli: Milder version for those who don’t like too much spice.
• Lamb Chakapuli: Richer and more intense, shows the lamb meat.

Chakapuli is served with fresh bread and a glass of grape juice or Georgian Wine, so it’s a great meal for any time of the year.

Pkhali – Nutty Vegetable Salads

Pkhali is a collection of Georgian vegetarian dishes made from kidney beans, spinach, beets, or other fresh vegetables blended with chopped walnuts, garlic, and Georgian spices. These finger foods are eaten as appetizers and are often garnished with pomegranate seeds for extra flavor.

Popular Variations:

• Spinach Pkhali: Mixed with walnut oil and fresh herbs.
• Beet Pkhali: Incorporates tart cherries for a sweet and tangy twist.

Pkhali pairs beautifully with cheese-added dishes and is commonly found on restaurant menus across Georgia, making it a must-try for those seeking lighter yet flavorful options.

Satsivi – Walnut Sauce Chicken

Satsivi is a beloved Georgian dish featuring chicken meat or turkey in rich walnut sauce. This traditional Georgian dish is especially popular during the winter months and festive occasions.

Preparation:

• Chicken or Turkey is first boiled until tender.
• The walnut sauce is made by blending ground walnuts with garlic, Georgian spices, and sometimes lemon juice for acidity.
• The sauce is then generously poured over the meat, creating a creamy and flavorful combination.

Satsivi is typically served alongside fresh vegetables and cheese baskets, making it a comprehensive and satisfying meal.

Lobio – Kidney Bean Stew

Lobio is a hearty Georgian dish made from kidney beans cooked with fried onions, bell peppers, and an array of Georgian spices. This vegetarian – and vegan-friendly stew is often served in a thermal clay pot, keeping it warm and flavorful.

Variations:

• Red Bean Lobio: Enhanced with bacon-scented beans for added depth.
• Herb Lobio: Infused with summer savory and other fresh herbs for a lighter taste.

Lobio is commonly accompanied by cheese-added dishes and freshly baked bread, making it a staple in home cooking and Georgian restaurants.

Shkmeruli – Garlic Chicken in Milk Sauce

Shkmeruli is a delightful Georgian meat dish featuring fried chicken drenched in a creamy garlic milk sauce. Originating from the village of Shkmeri in western Georgia, this traditional dish has become a favorite nationwide.

Preparation:

• Chicken is roasted until golden and crispy.
• A milk-garlic sauce is prepared with fresh herbs like coriander, basil, and tarragon.
• The fried chicken is then bathed in the sauce, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.

Shkmeruli, embodying the essence of Georgian cooking, is best enjoyed with chewy shortbread and a side of fresh vegetables.

Georgian Dining Culture

Eating georgian food is not just about tasting georgian food; it’s also about immersing yourself in georgian culture and traditions. Understanding georgian table etiquette will make your culinary journey even more enjoyable and respectful.

Etiquette and Tips

1. Join the Supra (Feast):
   • Supra is a traditional georgian feast with plenty of traditional dishes, drinks, and toasts. Participate fully, and don’t be shy about joining the toasting rituals led by the tamada (toastmaster).
2. Eat Khinkali with Your Hands:
   • Khinkali, the soup dumplings, are eaten with your hands. Hold the top knob, take a small bite, sip the broth, and enjoy the rest of the dumpling without the knot.
3. Respect the Order of Courses:
   • Georgian meals start with finger foods and appetizers like pkhali and eggplant rolls, then main dishes like spicy beef stew or roasted chicken, and finish with cheese-added desserts like churchkhela.
4. Share Dishes:
   • Sharing is key in georgian dining. Order a few traditional dishes and share them with your group. This creates a sense of community and allows everyone to try more flavors.
5. Enjoy with Grape Juice or Wine:
   • Georgian cuisine is often paired with grape juice or georgian Wine. Don’t hesitate to try the local orange Wine made with grape skins for a unique taste.
6. Love Fresh Herbs:
   • Fresh herbs like coriander, basil, and tarragon are staples in georgian dishes. They not only add flavor but also symbolize the importance of freshness in georgian cooking.
7. Don’t Rush:
   • Georgian meals are meant to be slow. Take your time to enjoy each dish, savor the flavors, and chat. Rushing through the meal is impolite.
8. Use Bread as a Utensil:
   • Freshly baked bread is part of the georgian table. Use it to scoop up dips and sauces and even as a utensil for some dishes. It’s a sign of appreciation for the host.
9. Respect Dietary Preferences:
   • Georgian cuisine has vegetarian and meat options. If you have dietary restrictions, inform your host or georgian cooks in restaurants in advance so they can accommodate your needs.
10. Say Thank You:

• Showing appreciation for the meal and the host is essential. Simple gestures like complimenting the food or thanking the host go a long way in georgian hospitality.

Georgian Cuisine: Best Places to Eat in Georgia

After we learned what dishes to try and some cuisine etiquette, it was time to choose a place. We will share our top-rated places with the best khinkali and khachapuri in the world. Let’s start our travel from the main city of Georgia, its capital – Tbilisi.

Tbilisi: Discover the Heart of Georgian Food

Let’s start from the capital city of Georgia, which is stunning Tbilisi.

Shavi Lomi Restaurant

• Address: 28 Zurab Kvlividze St, Tbilisi, Georgia
• Open Time: Daily 12:00 PM – 11:00 PM
• Prices, $$: Main dishes from 30-60 GEL (nearly 11-22 USD)

What They Serve:

Shavi Lomi offers a contemporary take on traditional Georgian dishes. The restaurant specializes in dishes like:

• Chicken chakhokhbili – stewed chicken with fresh herbs
• Spicy beef stew with pomegranate seeds.

The cozy atmosphere and modern vibe of Georgian cuisine make it a must-visit.

Barbarestan Restaurant

• Address: 132 Davit Aghmashenebeli Ave, Tbilisi, Georgia
• Open Time: Daily 11:00 AM – 10:30 PM
• Prices, $$$: Main dishes from 40-80 GEL (nearly 15-30 USD)

What They Serve:

A family-run restaurant known for reviving old Georgian recipes from the 19th-century cookbook of Barbare Jorjadze.

The menu features traditional Georgian dishes like:

• Pork meat with sour plum sauce
• Kidney beans in walnut paste.

Barbarestan offers an authentic Georgian dining experience with a historical flair.

Cafe Littera

• Address: 13 Ivane Machabeli St, Tbilisi, Georgia
• Open Time: Daily 6:00 PM – 11:00 PM
• Prices, $$$: The main course from 35-75 GEL (nearly 13-28 USD)

What They Serve:

Situated in the beautiful garden of the Georgian Writers’ House, this cafe serves elegant Georgian dishes like lobio (kidney beans) and khachapuri with a selection of Georgian spices and fresh herbs. The atmosphere is perfect for a relaxed evening in the heart of Tbilisi.

Culinarium Khasheria

• Address: 23 Abano St, Tbilisi, Georgia
• Open Time: Daily 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM
• Prices, $$: Main plates from 25-55 GEL (nearly 9-20 USD)

What They Serve:

Known for its innovative Georgian cuisine, Culinarium Khasheria is famous for:

• Khash, a traditional Georgian soup,
• Chkmeruli.

The restaurant is a favorite among locals and tourists looking for a modern vibe on classic dishes.

Samikitno Restaurant

• Address: 3 Sharden St, Tbilisi, Georgia
• Open Time: Daily 9:00 AM – 12:00 AM
• Prices, $: Main plates from 15-30 GEL (nearly 5-11 USD)

What They Serve:

A more casual option, Samikitno offers a wide range of classic Georgian food at very affordable prices. Popular dishes include:

• Khinkali
• Mtsvadi – Georgian kebab)
• Eggplant with ground walnuts.

It’s an excellent spot for experiencing authentic Georgian street food.

Kutaisi: Savoring Western Georgian Delicacies

After our food trip in Tbilisi, it was time to move on and chewy shoti bread on the way to Kutaisi.

Palaty Restaurant

• Address: 5 Akaki Tsereteli St, Kutaisi, Georgia
• Open Time: Daily 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM
• Prices, $$: Main course from 25-50 GEL (9-18 USD)

What They Serve:

A cozy restaurant offering traditional Georgian dishes with a focus on local ingredients. Try their top dishes like:

• Imeretian khachapuri
• Pork meat with grape juice reduction
• The lobio is served in clay pots.

The intimate setting and delicious food make it a must-visit in Kutaisi.

Sisters Restaurant

• Address: 3 Tsereteli St, Kutaisi, Georgia
• Open Time: Daily 12:00 PM – 11:00 PM
• Prices, $$: Main plate from 20-40 GEL (7-15 USD)

What They Serve:

Sisters is a modern eatery offering classic dishes with a contemporary flair. Their pomegranate seeds sprinkled over salads add a refreshing touch to the meal. They are famous for:

• Cheese-filled khachapuri
• Sour plum sauce over lamb meat.

El Depo

• Address: 1 Irakli Abashidze St, Kutaisi, Georgia
• Open Time: Daily 12:00 PM – 10:00 PM
• Prices, $$: Main plates from 20-45 GEL (7-16 USD)

What They Serve:

This unique restaurant offers a mix of Georgian and international cuisine. Try their:

• Mtsvadi (grilled meat) with freshly baked shoti bread
• Fried onions
• Pork with walnut oil

The rustic decor adds to the charm of this Kutaisi favorite.

Bungalow Restaurant

• Address: 33 Shota Rustaveli Ave, Kutaisi, Georgia
• Open Time: Daily 12:00 PM – 11:00 PM
• Prices, $$: Main course from 30-60 GEL (11-22 USD)

What They Serve:

The bungalow is known for its fresh herbs and Georgian spices used in traditional Georgian cooking. Their menu includes:

• Satsivi (chicken in walnut sauce)
• Chakapuli (lamb stew)

These dishes make it a perfect spot for trying authentic Georgian dishes.

Toma’s Wine Cellar

• Address: 9 Eristavi St, Kutaisi, Georgia
• Open Time: Daily 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM
• Prices, $$: Main courses from 25-50 GEL (9-18 USD)

What They Serve:

Specializing in orange Wine and traditional Georgian dishes, Toma’s Wine Cellar is a cozy spot for a more intimate dining experience. Enjoy their:

• Chkmeruli with pomegranate juice and fresh veggies
• Their signature kidney beans with chopped walnuts.

Batumi: Coastal Delights with Georgian Flair

If the journey through Georgia brings you to Batumi, it means your way must stop a few times in the places below.

Heart of Batumi

• Address: 11 Giorgi Mazniashvili St, Batumi, Georgia
• Open Time: Daily 9:00 AM – 11:00 PM
• Prices, $$: Main courses from 25-55 GEL (9-20 USD)

What They Serve:

Heart of Batumi is renowned for:

• Adjarian khachapuri
• Cheese-filled breads
• Lamb meat with summer savory is a must-try
• Georgian orange Wine

The casual atmosphere and delicious food make it popular among locals and tourists alike.

360 Sky Bar Restaurant

• Address: 14 Rustaveli Ave, Radisson Blu Hotel, Batumi, Georgia
• Open Time: Daily 12:00 PM – 12:00 AM
• Prices, $$$: Main dishes from 40-80 GEL (15-30 USD)

What They Serve:

Located on the 19th floor of the Radisson Blu Hotel, this upscale restaurant offers stunning views and a refined menu. Enjoy Georgian dishes like:

• Mtsvadi with pomegranate seeds
• Beef stew with fresh Batumi herbs.

This place is perfect for a special night out.

Adjarian Wine House

• Address: 12a Khimshiashvili St, Batumi, Georgia
• Open Time: Daily 10:00 AM – 11:00 PM
• Prices, $$: Main dishes from 30-60 GEL (11-22 USD)

What They Serve:

A great spot to sample local wines and traditional Georgian food. The menu features:

• Khachapuri varieties
• Pork meat with walnut oil
• Fruit roll-ups made from concentrated grape juice are a local favorite.

Chacha Time

• Address: 6 Kobaladze St, Batumi, Georgia
• Open Time: Daily 11:00 AM – 12:00 AM
• Prices, $$: Main courses from 20-50 GEL (7-18 USD)

What They Serve:

Known for its relaxed vibe and classic dishes, Chacha Time offers:

• Chkmeruli
• Lobio with red onion.

It’s a great place to unwind with friends and enjoy the best of Georgian cuisine.

Pairing Georgian Food with Wine

Georgia is known as the “cradle of wine” and has an 8,000+ year-old winemaking tradition. Central to this tradition is the qvevri Wine, made in large clay vessels buried underground, where the wine ferments and ages naturally.

This ancient method is recognized by UNESCO as an intangible cultural heritage and gives the Wine its distinct flavor, which is deeply rooted in Georgian cuisine.

Georgian wines are diverse, with over 500 grape varieties grown in different regions. The most famous wine region is Kakheti in eastern Georgia, where most of the Georgian Wine is produced.

Other notable regions are Imereti in the west and Racha-Lechkhumi in the north. Each region has its own expression of Georgia’s terroir, so wine tasting is a rich and varied experience.

Wine Pairing Suggestions

To upgrade your experience of traditional Georgian dishes, consider these wine pairings:

1. Khachapuri (Cheese-filled Bread)
   • A crisp Tsinandali from Kakheti, a dry white wine made from Rkatsiteli and Mtsvane grapes, pairs beautifully with the rich, cheesy flavors of khachapuri.
   • Its acidity cuts through the richness, while its citrus notes complement the buttery dough.
2. Khinkali (Soup Dumplings)
   • For these savory dumplings, often filled with minced meat and broth, a light red wine such as Saperavi is ideal.
   • This Wine, also from Kakheti, offers robust berry flavors and a hint of spice, enhancing the meaty filling and the burst of broth with each bite.
3. Mtsvadi (Georgian Shashlik)
   • Mtsvadi, a popular Georgian meat dish of grilled skewered meat, pairs excellently with Mukuzani, a fuller-bodied red wine made from Saperavi grapes.
   • Mukuzani’s deep, rich flavors complement the charred exterior and tender meat of the mtsvadi.
4. Satsivi (Chicken in Walnut Sauce)
   • A traditional Georgian dish like satsivi, with its rich walnut sauce, pairs well with Rkatsiteli, a versatile white wine known for its balance and subtle fruitiness.
   • The Wine’s acidity helps to balance the richness of the walnut sauce while enhancing the dish’s earthy flavors.
5. Chakapuli (Lamb Stew with Herbs)
   • This hearty dish, made with lamb meat and many fresh herbs, finds a perfect match in Kisi, another white wine from Kakheti.
   • Kisi’s floral notes and soft acidity complement the fresh herbs and tender lamb, enhancing the dish’s overall flavor.

Exploring Wine Regions

If you want to dive deeper into Georgia’s wine culture, consider visiting these key wine regions:

• Kakheti:
  • The heart of Georgian winemaking, Kakheti, offers numerous wineries and vineyards where visitors can explore traditional qvevri winemaking processes.
  • Must-visit wineries include Telavi Wine Cellar and Shumi Winery.
• Imereti:
  • Known for its lighter and fresher wines, Imereti is ideal for those who prefer wines with a bit more acidity.
  • Baia’s Wine in the village of Obcha is a popular stop.
• Racha-Lechkhumi:
  • Famous for sweet wines like Khvanchkara, this region is perfect for those with a sweet tooth.
  • A visit to Khvanchkara Winery offers insight into the production of Georgia’s most celebrated semi-sweet red Wine.

Pairing Georgian cuisine with the right Wine not only improves the flavors of the food but also offers a deeper connection to the rich cultural traditions of this ancient winemaking country.

So, don’t waste your time and come to Georgia to try all that miracles of food and Wine covered with the hospitality of Georgian people.