Georgia is a country that is famous for its delicious cuisine and drinks. Georgian food is a blend of various cultures, and it is known for its rich flavors and unique cooking techniques. If you are planning to visit Georgia, one of the essential things you need to know is how to order food and drinks like a pro. In this guide, we will provide you with tips and tricks on how to order food and drinks in Georgia, so you can have a memorable culinary experience.
Learn Some Basic Georgian Phrases
The first step to order food and drinks like a pro in Georgia is to learn some basic Georgian phrases. Even though most Georgians speak English, ordering food and drinks in their language will make your experience more authentic and enjoyable. Here are some basic Georgian phrases that you should learn:
- Gamajoba – Hello
- Madloba – Thank you
- Didi madloba – Thank you very much
- Sakartvelos khidi – Cheers (literally means "To Georgia's Victory!")
- Gamarjobat – Bon Appetit
- Minda – Salt
- Tskhali – Pepper
- Mtsvadi – Georgian barbecue
- Khinkali – Georgian dumplings
- Khachapuri – Georgian cheese bread
Learning these basic phrases will help you communicate with the locals and make your dining experience more enjoyable. The locals will appreciate you making an effort to speak their language and it will make your experience more authentic.
Understand the Menu
When you visit a Georgian restaurant, you will find that the menus are often written in Georgian and English. However, some restaurants may only have menus in Georgian, so it is important to understand the menu. Most Georgian dishes are named after their main ingredients, so if you know the basic Georgian phrases for food, it will be easier for you to understand the menu.
It is also important to note that Georgian cuisine has a lot of vegetarian and meat options. If you are a vegetarian, look for dishes that are marked as "pkhali" or "badrijani" on the menu. These dishes are made with vegetables and nuts and are a great option for vegetarians.
One of the most famous Georgian dishes is khachapuri, which is a cheese-filled bread. There are many different types of khachapuri, but the most famous one is called "Adjaruli khachapuri." This dish is shaped like a boat and is filled with cheese, butter, and a raw egg. When you order Adjaruli khachapuri, make sure to mix the egg with the cheese and butter before eating it.
Another popular Georgian dish is khinkali, which is a type of dumpling that is filled with meat or cheese. Khinkali is usually eaten with your hands, and it is a fun and interactive dish to share with friends.
Georgian cuisine also has a lot of unique sauces and condiments that you should try. One of the most famous Georgian sauces is "Tkemali," which is made with sour plums. Tkemali is usually served with meat dishes and adds a tangy flavor to the dish.
Order the Right Drinks
Georgian wine and chacha (a Georgian brandy) are famous all over the world. When you visit a Georgian restaurant, you should try some of the local drinks. If you are not sure what to order, ask the waiter for recommendations.
Georgian wine is made from unique grape varieties that are grown only in Georgia. Some of the popular Georgian wines are Saperavi, Kindzmarauli, and Mukuzani. Chacha is a strong alcoholic drink that is made from grape pomace, and it is often served as a digestif after a meal.
If you are not a fan of alcoholic drinks, you can try Georgian lemonade (called "limonati") or Georgian tea (called "chai"). Georgian tea is usually served with sugar and a slice of lemon, and it is a great way to end your meal.
Try the Local Specialties
Georgian cuisine has a lot of unique dishes that you should try when you visit Georgia. One of the most popular Georgian dishes is khinkali, which is a type of dumpling that is filled with meat or cheese. Khinkali is usually eaten with your hands, and it is a fun and interactive dish to share with friends.
Another popular Georgian dish is khachapuri, which is a cheese-filled bread. There are many different types of khachapuri, but the most famous one is called "Adjaruli khachapuri." This dish is shaped like a boat and is filled with cheese, butter, and a raw egg. When you order Adjaruli khachapuri, make sure to mix the egg with the cheese and butter before eating it.
If you are a meat lover, you should try Georgian barbecue (called "mtsvadi"). Mtsvadi is made with marinated chunks of meat (usually pork or beef) that are grilled over an open flame. Mtsvadi is usually served with onions and a side of Georgian bread.
Georgian cuisine also has a lot of unique desserts that you should try. One of the most famous Georgian desserts is "Churchkhela," which is a type of candy that is made by dipping a string of nuts into grape juice and then drying it. Churchkhela is a great snack to have on the go, and it is a popular souvenir to take home.
Don't Be Afraid to Ask Questions
If you are not sure what to order or how to pronounce a dish, don't be afraid to ask the waiter for help. Most Georgians are friendly and hospitable, and they will be happy to assist you.
One thing to keep in mind is that Georgian portions are usually large, so if you are not sure how much to order, ask the waiter for recommendations. Also, if you have any dietary restrictions or allergies, make sure to inform the waiter before ordering.
Final Thoughts
Ordering food and drinks in Georgia can be a fun and exciting experience. By learning some basic Georgian phrases, understanding the menu, trying the local specialties, and asking questions, you can have an authentic culinary experience in Georgia. Don't forget to try some Georgian wine or chacha, and enjoy the warm hospitality of the Georgian people.