Georgia is a country filled with history, striking landscapes, and—of course—amazing food. The cuisine here is delicious and hearty. Best of all, it’s incredibly affordable. There are countless dishes that deserve to be on your must-try list, from stews to flatbreads filled with cheese. If you’re planning a trip to Georgia and want to know what local foods you should try, this guide will help you out. I’ll also share some top restaurant spots where you can get a taste of authentic Georgian cooking.
Traditional Georgian Dishes You Shouldn’t Miss
Khachapuri
This is probably the most famous dish in Georgia. Khachapuri is a cheese-filled bread that varies in style depending on the region you visit. The Adjaruli version, which looks like a boat filled with melted cheese, butter, and a raw egg on top, is indulgent and incredibly delicious. Tear off a piece of the dough and mix the cheese and egg together before eating. You simply can’t leave Georgia without trying this one.
Khinkali
These are Georgian dumplings, typically stuffed with spiced meat. When cooked, they release a flavorful broth inside. You eat khinkali by picking them up by the top and biting into the base while sucking out the broth. Beef and pork are common fillings, but you can also find mushroom, potato, and cheese variations. They’re best enjoyed piping hot, fresh off the stove.
Lobio
A simple but tasty stew made from red beans, herbs, and sometimes walnuts. Lobio is traditionally served in clay pots and pairs well with mchadi, a type of cornbread. It’s filling, cheap, and perfect for vegetarians.
Shkmeruli
This dish consists of chicken slowly simmered in a garlicky milk sauce. It’s creamy and flavorful, with a strong garlic punch that will keep you coming back for more. The chicken is cooked until it’s tender and juicy, and the sauce clings to every piece.
Badrijani
This is one of the best appetizers to start your meal in Georgia. Badrijani are eggplant slices rolled around a filling of ground walnuts, garlic, and spices. They’re typically garnished with pomegranate seeds that add a little burst of sweetness and crunch.
Pkhali
Pkhali refers to a variety of vegetable dishes mixed with walnuts, garlic, and herbs. The most common pkhali dish you’ll encounter uses spinach, but beetroot and cabbage are also popular choices. It’s a great vegetarian option and often served as an appetizer or side dish.
Chakapuli
If you love lamb, chakapuli should be on your food itinerary. It’s a stew made with lamb and stewed in a broth of fresh herbs (like tarragon), white wine, and a sour note from green sour plums (tkemali). The result is a fragrant and rich dish packed with bold flavors.
Street Food You Have to Try
Kubdari
If you like meat pies, you need to try kubdari. This is a savory bread stuffed with spiced beef or pork, mixed with herbs and sometimes onions. It’s best eaten on the go from a street vendor. You can find this dish all over, but it’s originally from the Svaneti region.
Churchkhela
These colorful, candle-shaped sweets can be spotted hanging in markets and roadside stands. Churchkhela is made by dipping strings of nuts (usually walnuts or hazelnuts) in a thickened grape juice mixture until they’re coated. Once dried, they’re a chewy, sweet snack perfect for travelers on the move.
Gozinaki
Popular during the holidays but available year-round, gozinaki is a traditional candy made from caramelized nuts and honey. It’s often cut into squares or rectangles, making it easy to enjoy as a quick treat on the street or in a crowded bazaar.
Top Restaurants for Authentic Georgian Cuisine
Barbarestan (Tbilisi)
Barbarestan is a family-run restaurant that’s become a beloved gem in Tbilisi. They serve recipes from a famous 19th-century Georgian cookbook by Barbare Eristavi-Jorjadze. It’s an excellent spot to try classic Georgian dishes with a modern twist. The atmosphere here is cozy, and the food is top-notch. Make sure to book a table ahead of time, as it’s a popular spot.
Pasanauri (Tbilisi)
If you want to try khinkali and khachapuri in Tbilisi, Pasanauri is the place to visit. This local restaurant offers a traditional dining experience, and their dumplings are among the best in the city. It’s also quite affordable. Don’t be surprised if you end up ordering a second—or third—round of dumplings.
Ethnographer (Kutaisi)
This hidden gem is located in Kutaisi, offering traditional dishes in a cozy, homestyle setting. Ethnographer is best known for its khachapuri and lobio. The ambiance makes you feel like you’re eating in a Georgian home, and the food portions are generous. Be sure to try one of their regional Western Georgian dishes!
Sakhli #11 (Tbilisi)
Sakhli #11 offers a home-cooked Georgian meal experience in the heart of Tbilisi. The restaurant is a bit tucked away, but it’s well worth finding. The intimate setting, along with flavorful dishes like chakapuli and pkhali, will give you a true taste of homemade Georgian cooking. The friendly staff will also happily help you choose something from the menu if you’re unsure where to start.
Machakhela (Tbilisi)
Machakhela is another great option for classic Georgian food, particularly if you’re craving khachapuri. The restaurant has multiple locations around Tbilisi, making it an easy stop for lunch after a day of sightseeing. Don’t miss their Adjaruli khachapuri! It’s fresh, hot, and slightly salty—just the way it should be.
Alubali (Batumi)
Alubali is an excellent choice if you’re visiting Batumi. It offers fresh, tasty Georgian food mixed with a cozy garden atmosphere. The locals love it, and tourists quickly become fans as well. Alubali’s khinkali and salads are big hits, and the outdoor seating is perfect on a warm day.
Market to Visit for Local Foods
Dezerter Bazaar (Tbilisi)
No trip to Georgia is complete without a visit to a local market, and Dezerter Bazaar is a must-visit when you’re in Tbilisi. Here, you’ll find everything from fresh fruits and vegetables to spices, cheese, and even homemade wine. It’s a great place to grab some local snacks or pick up a bottle of Georgian wine to take home with you. Churchkhela is sold everywhere here, so be sure to grab some before you go.
Kutaisi Market (Kutaisi)
In the heart of Kutaisi, this open-air market offers a glimpse into daily Georgian life. You can explore stalls brimming with spices, honey, cheeses, and fresh produce. If you’re a fan of street food, there are plenty of vendors here selling snacks like kubdari to eat while you explore. It’s a feast for the senses and a great place to buy souvenirs, like dried spices or traditional sweets.
Tips for Eating Like a Local in Georgia
Here are some quick tips for enjoying Georgian food like a pro:
- Try a little bit of everything. Georgian meals are typically shared, and it’s normal for people to order a variety of dishes to sample together.
- Don’t skip the wine! Georgia is one of the world’s oldest wine regions, and you’ll find that many meals are accompanied by a glass (or several).
- Ask for recommendations. Georgian hospitality is famous, and people love sharing their favorite foods. If you’re unsure what to try, your server will likely have great suggestions.
- Be aware of portions. Georgian meals can be very filling, so you might want to start small and then order more if you’re still hungry.
- Visit bakeries in the morning. Many places start baking fresh bread and khachapuri early, and they can sell out by afternoon!
Whether you’re tucking into a steaming plate of khachapuri or grabbing a street snack like kubdari, Georgia’s food scene is something you won’t soon forget. Be sure to stop at these great restaurants and markets during your trip, and you’ll experience some of the best food the country has to offer!
Leave a reply