Top Georgian Dishes and Restaurants in Tbilisi: A Culinary Journey

Tbilisi, the vibrant capital of Georgia, is a hub of rich culinary traditions. From street food to fine dining, Tbilisi boasts a diverse range of options to satisfy your taste buds. Let's explore the best places to sample Georgian cuisine and the dishes they are most famous for.

Sukhumi Eatery

Sukhumi Eatery is one of the leading restaurants in Tbilisi, known for its authentic Georgian cuisine. Their main specialty is sukhi, a traditional baked Georgian pizza. This flatbread is cooked in a clay oven called a cibich.

Other must-try dishes at Sukhumi Eatery include:

Khachapuri: A cheese-filled bread that is a must-try in Georgian cuisine. The modified version here offers a unique twist that you won't find elsewhere. Djolima: A savory, bread-based dish that is perfect for a hearty meal. Tskhoveli: A meat-based dish that is slow-cooked until tender and flavorful.

Darilekhi

Darilekhi is a more upscale restaurant that offers a refined Georgian dining experience. They are particularly known for their dolma, which is stuffed vegetables, and jighama, a sweet and sour stew typically made with a variety of root vegetables.

Additional recommended dishes at Darilekhi include:

Mtsvadi: Grilled kebabs that are skewered with pieces of various meats and vegetables. Each piece is marinated before grilling, offering a rich and smoky flavor. Pkhleeni Kakheti: A lamb dish that is marinated in wine and herbs before being roasted in the oven. This dish is known for its tender and flavorful meat. Gozleme: A triangular flatbread filled with cheese, spinach, or yogurt, and baked until golden and crispy.

Surami

Surami is a cozy, family-run restaurant that offers a more traditional dining experience. They are particularly known for their khinkali, Georgian dumplings that are filled with a meat and herb filling and served with a spicy pepper sauce.

Additional dishes to try at Surami include:

Tbetulebi: A cold cucumber soup that is light and refreshing. Machapkhali: A hearty chicken dish that is served over a bed of rice. Tamada: A dish of marinated meat that is often served as part of a platter.

Best Places to Eat Georgian Food in Tbilisi

Whether you prefer a relaxed street food scene or a more formal dining experience, Tbilisi has a variety of establishments that serve top-notch Georgian cuisine. Some of the key places to explore include:

Sukhumi Eatery (Sukhumi) for traditional pizza and other regional specialties. Darilekhi (3 Lenturi St) for a sophisticated Georgian dining experience. Surami (47 Marta Derbechi St) for a cozy, traditional dining atmosphere.

Conclusion

Tbilisi offers a diverse range of Georgian culinary experiences that cater to all tastes and preferences. From street food to fine dining, these recommended dishes and restaurants provide an authentic taste of Georgia. Make sure to try some of these popular Georgian foods when you visit Tbilisi!