Sitting at the cross section of Asia and Europe, one standout point of Georgia and the Caucasus region is the multi-influence from both continents. From the culture, society and most importantly (for us foodies at least), the food! There are many interesting restaurants in Tbilisi which offers different cuisines and experiences.
Here are some of the restaurants and local places that we tried and would recommend; several of them are not obvious on the tourist trail. We liked these places sometimes for the overall experience and some for specific dishes.
Traditional Georgian Restaurants In Tbilisi
Ode ოდე
Located in the old town, near the tranquil 9 April Park, Ode came to our attention after we saw an average of 4.9 ratings across 1000+ reviews on Google. Now, a restaurant with that kind of stats is always intriguing for me.
This is a classy wine bar and restaurant with a nice cozy interior. Despite the appearance, prices here are actually quite standard for restaurants.
It is one of the first restaurants in Tbilisi that we tried, so obviously we went for the Georgian classics – Adjarian Khachapuri and Khinkali. They have 2 versions of Khinkali, one with beef, and the other with pork, which was perfect since one of us don’t like pork.
The Adjarian Khachapuri was immensely satisfying, offering a strong buttery, cheesy flavor. Sinful? probably; I can imagine the amount of butter but definitely tasty.
What stood out for me was the Khinkali. Traditional Georgian Khinkalis are huge with a thick dough wrapping which I’m not a fan of. They are very filling and takes a few mouthful to savor.
In contrast, the Khinkali here are small and bite sized (almost like xiao long bao in Chinese cuisine). I find this to be a better balance of meat and dumpling wrapping; it is a much more enjoyable dish that doesn’t leave you bloated.
Oh, and the Khinkali comes in colorful wrappings, so bonus point for the visuals. They are supposedly also known for their Bio wine although we did not try that since my dinner buddy didn’t drink alcohol.
During the evening, they have someone playing piano at the outdoor seating area which is perfect for the summer. However, if you like to have a conversation that the cozy indoors is better.
Cafe Daphne
Cafe Daphne has been known to serve some of the best Khinkalis around, so I had to give it a try.
This restaurant is often crowded during weekends and weekday evenings, so its good to make a reservation if you are visiting then.
One of the best things about the khinkalis here is that there is no minimum order for each stuffing, so even if you are alone, you can try different “flavours” by ordering just 1 or 2 each.
They also have a special Kinkhali with moulded cheese, that was unfortunately not available when we visited. So I like be back again to try that.
My favourite was the cheese and potato khinkali, that also came with like melted butter. The mushroom and meat ones had a good amount of broth in them which is nice (and you want to eat them in one bite)
The khinkalis here are mid size, they are better than (what I feel) are overly huge traditional ones. For meat ones, I still prefer the small ones at Ode just because I’m not a big fan of too much dough skins.
We also tried the Georgian platter that consists of three different pastes for a lack of better term. Although its an appetiser it is pretty filling when shared between the two of us.
Overall, we ordered 4 khinkalis each and the Georgian platter, and it was already filling, so this is a good spot to bring friends to share different plates.
I Love Georgia
Ok I know this is like such a cliche name, but this family run restaurant in the basement of the building gives you all the vibes of an old school, local Georgian restaurant.
The whole restaurant is plastered with photos, seemingly of the owner with guests, alongside posters of Madonna and celebrities of the past. An old school TV sits at one corner playing local music. It’s a bit of a time travel experience.
We visited for an early dinner and there were increasingly locals coming into the restaurant as time past.
The food is pretty decent and reasonably priced. Out of all the dishes we ordered, we liked the chicken most. It was pan fried to perfection with a thin, crispy skin and tender meat.
The homemade wine is definitely something to try and a steal. A whole 500ml jar for just 5 Lari when we visited.
We did not meet the main male owner but I’ve heard that’s one of the highlights. He goes around carrying a flask of wine and drinking with the guests.
If you are seeking out an old school restaurant in Tbilisi, this is one place to feel what the vibes might have been a decade ago.
Note that they don’t take card payment here, so be sure to bring some cash along.
Radio Cafe
Also located opposite the 9 April Park, the most special thing about Radio Cafe is their selection of Khachapuris. And no, I don’t just mean the different varieties of traditional Khachapuri that Georgian have.
They like to put a spin on things, and there are some interesting dishes you can try here that is served on that iconic boat-shaped bread container. The one that really drew my attention was the blackcharuli which is creamy seafood served inside a charcoal bread.
Apart from the convenience of the location, the cafe is rather tranquil in the day time being next to the park. And during the night, you also have live piano music, giving a different vibe. So it’s a good spot to visit throughout the day.
There’s a few street dogs that like to hang around here. Street dogs are very common in Tbilisi and are generally friendly to people (except motorists). They might stand next to you but won’t really bother you if you choose to ignore them. If you’re a fan of dogs, it’s a plus point.
The cafe and restaurant also have an extensive drinks menu from mocktails/cocktails to wine, coffee and even hot drinks. I like the range of options available.
Family Kitchens In Tbilisi
Now as you roam around Tbilisi and Georgia, you will find these stores selling a variety of ready made cooked food or cold dishes. I call them family kitchens, because that’s what most of them are labeled as in English on Google maps.
These family kitchens are popular haunts for locals, and you will find the common fares that Georgian eat. You basically pick and choose what you want from the selection; most dishes are charged by weigh.
Some of them are purely takeaway stores, where you can only pack to-go, while others also offer seats like a restaurant. Note that the dishes are usually microwaved to serve since they are prepared beforehand.
They are good spots to try multiple food at once and are very affordable since they pimarily serve the local market. So I would encourage you give them a try.
Tar Tun Family Kitchen
One of my favorite is Tar Tun, located near the Parliament house and Liberty Square metro.
You will find that some family kitchens are small and dark, very localized which has its own charm; but quite hard to order if you don’t speak Georgian.
Tar Tun has a bright, modern and charming interior with seats, decent wifi and even power sockets (so you can even work there if it is not crowded).
There is a very helpful young lady there that speaks some English that can help you with ordering and identifying dishes if you don’t speak Georgian.
They don’t just have dishes for regular meals, but also a good selection of bread, pastries and cakes. So it is like both a cafe and restaurant with plenty of options. I tried a bunch of dishes and had a very substantial honey cake with coffee while having an online discussion with my friend.
Kombinati
Another popular spot in the city center located near the public service building (the one that looks like a flower).
Note that Kombinati gets really crowded during lunch hour on weekdays as the hungry office workers come to fill their stomach.
There is a much wider variety of options here compared to most family kitchens. You will find typical Georgian fares along with different pizza options, desserts and salads. In addition, it also has a nice pastry section with very tempting looking croissants and all.
Hot Tip:
If you don’t understand Georgian, and are rather picky about your food, you should definitely not visit during the busy hours. This is because the staff won’t have the luxury of time to explain each dish to you as there is usually a snaking queue waiting to be fed.
Visit during non-peak timings instead if you like to ask about the different dishes on offer.
International Cuisine Restaurants
Fragola
If you are looking for Italian cuisine, Fragola is a nice restaurant/cafe in Tbilisi to check out.
This is bright and rather classy place right on the main streets of Saburtalo, and it caught my attention just from the exterior. It is a great spot for food and meetings both business or casual.
Apart from the nice interior, the biggest standout for me are the pastries and coffee. Personally, they have one of the best Cappuccino I’ve had in Tbilisi.
If I was staying in Saburtalo, this would no doubt be a regular spot for my sweet indulgence. The visuals just make you want to drool.
I tried their Italian Burger – the patty and sauces were great. They even provided disposable gloves for the burger, although I just ate with fork and knife.
This can also be a good place to work from. They have power sockets at certain seats if you need them. There are more seats at the back in case you find the seats at patio and front area are all taken up.
The internet speed is not very fast when I tested it on mobile (approx 5 mbps for both upload and download), so that is probably the main thing to consider if you are planning to work there. But I can see myself going there for some brainstorming and writing sessions.
Otherwise, we have an article on some of the best cafes in Tbilisi to work from as well. A couple are located within 3 mins walk from Fragola.
Palace Restaurant
If you are looking for South Indian cuisine, this is one of the best I have had in Tbilisi and comes recommended by an Indian friend.
They used to only have one outlet that is part of a student hostel. But they have since expanded with another outlet in Saburtalo. In addition, they do deliveries for a small fee and that’s how we ordered.
Prices here are very affordable but mostly the taste is pretty authentic. Usually Indian food in other countries are not spicy enough. This is especially in place where spice is a not a big part of the cuisine., since they have to cater to local tastes.
However, Georgia has a good Indian expat and student population which I think really appreciates some authentic tastes from home.
The dishes from Palace restaurant are spicy and flavorful enough. I have tried their beef biryani and couple of curries. Let’s just say I’m a satisfied customer.
Breakfast IS
This cozy hidden gem is one of the best breakfast spots in Tbilisi. Although it is located in the city center, it has an unassuming exterior and sits in that rather quiet street behind the Garden of the First Republic of Georgia.
While the entrance is on ground level, the seating area is slightly lower and makes it sort of like a basement tavern which is cool (but figuratively and literally).
The place is quite small and thus can get full. Although this is known more as a breakfast spot, they usually open till 6pm; so you can visit later during the day as well.
Many of their dishes like Shakshuka is actually more of an all-day breakfast kinda options. I tried their Creme brûlée with French toast and it was superb. Highly recommend trying it!
Tbilisi Restaurants With Nice Views
Good food is nice, but having a great view is the cherry on top. There are actually many restaurants in Tbilisi overlooking a nice scenery.
Republic Rooftop Restaurant
If you want to enjoy a nice dinner and drinks with a sweeping city view, Republic Rooftop restaurant is a nice option. This spot is particularly popular at night, even among the local crowd.
Although this is not a tall building, but it happens to already be on elevated ground, giving it a good vantage point. Republic is located at the intersection where Radisson Hotel and that giant, photogenic, bicycle monument is at.
Prices here are on the higher end due to the convenient location and rooftop views.
I tried their pumpkin Risotto with blue cheese and it had a strong flavour. The blue cheese definitely overpowers the tastebud, so if you like cheese, this is a great option. And the texture of the Risotto is consistent.
Admittedly, Georgia ain’t well known for their service quality. But you definitely get at least professional service attitude here compared to the overall standards.
Borani
Situated right at the end of XX bridge, this is a great spot by the Kura River. You won’t actually find this as a restaurant on Google maps.
This is because it is one of the boarding spots if you want to do a boat tour. But Borani has a decent menu serving breakfasts, Georgian food, desserts, drinks and more.
I think they also offer hookah. And this is unsurprising, considering the spectacular views they have right next to the river.
The restaurant has an outdoor, elevated terrace which is great during the warmer seasons; particularly during Spring as it is not too hot. You can see many of the iconic landmarks here from Mother Georgia to the Old Town and Tabor Monastery.
Prices here are relatively cheap; I came for breakfast during opening hour. Grabbed a cup of coffee and a nice bacon omelette, and soaked in the views here.
As you can imagine, it gets increasingly popular throughout the day once tourists find a nice spot to grab food or a break after touring the highlights nearby. So come before lunch time if you want the best seats and also enjoy a more tranquil time.
Street Food In Tbilisi
Kerbia
Kerbia is a popular spot amongst locals for Georgian fast food, specifically their Lobiani and Kachapuri. The staff do not speak English and you will find only Georgians here because their menu is also all in Georgian. Although they have a single simple piece that is in English, presumably for the most popular items.
I was not super keen on Lobiani (stuffed bean pie) as beans usually makes me bloated. But seeing that it’s a local classic, plus this place is so known for it, I had to give it a try.
Prices here are also low since their cliente are primarily locals. In addition, they have smoked Lobiani here which is not common to find.
I ordered the small portion (at 7 Lari when I visited), which is definitely sufficient for one pax. It was pretty good and would definitely recommend it if you’re going to try Lobiani. They make it on order, so the pastry crust came out rather crispy.
Authentic, great prices and the staff was friendly enough to help even when I didn’t speak Georgian.
I don’t think they usually see foreigners eating here, much less people working on the laptop. But i’ve got to say, the place is well equipped for it. Despite the lack of any standout character, the place has spacious tables, decent wifi (Download/Upload Speed: 11/13 mbps) and power sockets.
If you want to try some local food while you work, this might just be the spot. I don’t think they mind or care if the place is not crowded, but I’ve heard the place does get busy.
MaHoosa
This is a very small, unassuming stall on the turn of street. You won’t see a sign, so mark it out on Google maps and keep a look out for it when you are near.
What you might see though, is a queue. They sell only one signature food product and that is doughnuts. Not the huge, fat ones, but these smaller, onion-ring-lookalikes. And they are incredibly good.
Plus they are super cheap. When I first visited, it was 4 for 1 Lari. The stall is basically a small ordering window, and you can see inside is literally a single machine churning out these doughnuts.
You want to buy a bunch of them, particularly if you have queued for it. I grabbed like 32 of them just for myself the first time.
The exterior is crispy, and the interior is soft. They are super addictive. The doughnuts taste the best right when you get them, these are freshly made and the turnover is quick. But they are surprisingly still very good even after I kept one bag until the evening.
If you don’t want to queue for long, go during the daytime on weekdays. The stall also sell drinks like coffee and milkshake etc, so you can get something to go along with the sweet, tasty treat.
Wrap Master
If you want a quick meal, or something to grab and go. Wrap Master is a nice option. They have two outlets within the touristic zones.
This is basically a nice alternative to your shawarma or subway. They serve wraps with different stuffings and flavors, primarily segmented by chicken, beef and vegetarian.
There’s a good amount of option and they make for a filling and relatively balanced meal since you get your veg, protein, carbs all in. I tried the blue cheese one and it was great, with sufficient stuffings. I never had a bite which was just pure tortilla.
The wrap is quite big so if you’re a small eater, its can be shared between two as a satisfying snack.
Best of all, they are available on delivery apps, so it’s a very handy option for those who are staying in the city for bit longer.
