If you're a business traveler in Tbilisi, Georgia, you're in for a treat when it comes to food. Georgian cuisine is a unique blend of flavors and traditions that reflect the country's rich history and cultural influences. From hearty meat dishes to fresh salads and cheesy bread, there's something for everyone to enjoy. In this guide, we'll take a closer look at some of the must-try dishes and where to find them in Tbilisi.
Khinkali – The Georgian Dumpling
One of the most iconic Georgian dishes is khinkali, a type of dumpling that's filled with meat, spices, and sometimes vegetables. Khinkali is usually served hot and steaming, and the traditional way to eat them is to hold them by the top knot and take a bite out of the side. Be careful not to spill the hot broth inside! There are many variations of khinkali, but the most popular are filled with beef or pork. Vegetarian options are also available, usually filled with mushrooms or cheese.
Khinkali is not only delicious but also a cultural experience. In Georgia, eating khinkali is a social activity that brings people together. In fact, there's even a traditional way of counting how many khinkali you've eaten. The top knot of each khinkali represents a number, and you're supposed to keep track of how many you've eaten by stacking the knots on your plate. It's a fun and interactive way to enjoy a meal with friends or colleagues.
Where to try khinkali in Tbilisi:
- Zakhar Zakharich – This popular restaurant chain has several locations in Tbilisi, and their khinkali is considered some of the best in the city.
- Pasanauri – This cozy restaurant in the old town serves up traditional Georgian cuisine, including delicious khinkali.
- Samikitno – This restaurant is known for its rustic atmosphere and authentic Georgian dishes, including khinkali.
Khachapuri – The Cheesy Bread
Another must-try Georgian dish is khachapuri, a type of bread that's filled with cheese and sometimes other ingredients like spinach or potatoes. Khachapuri comes in many shapes and sizes, but the most common is the boat-shaped version called adjaruli khachapuri. The cheese is melted and gooey, and the bread is crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. It's the ultimate comfort food!
Khachapuri is not only delicious but also a cultural symbol. In Georgia, khachapuri is more than just a food item. It's a symbol of hospitality and generosity. In fact, it's customary for Georgians to offer khachapuri to guests as a sign of welcome and friendship. So, if you're invited to a Georgian home or office, don't be surprised if you're served a piping hot khachapuri.
Where to try khachapuri in Tbilisi:
- Shemoikhede Genatsvale – This restaurant is famous for its khachapuri and has several locations throughout Tbilisi.
- Barbarestan – This restaurant is located in a historic building and serves up traditional Georgian dishes, including several types of khachapuri.
- Ezo – This trendy restaurant in the old town is known for its modern take on Georgian cuisine, including a delicious khachapuri with spinach and feta cheese.
Mtsvadi – The Georgian Barbecue
Georgians love their meat, and one of the most popular dishes is mtsvadi, a type of barbecue made with marinated chunks of pork or beef. The meat is skewered and cooked over an open flame, giving it a smoky flavor and crispy exterior. Mtsvadi is usually served with sliced onions and fresh herbs, and it's a great option for a hearty meal after a long day of meetings.
Mtsvadi is not only a delicious dish but also a cultural tradition. In Georgia, mtsvadi is more than just a food item. It's a symbol of friendship and camaraderie. In fact, it's customary for Georgians to gather around a fire and cook mtsvadi together, sharing stories and laughter as they grill the meat. So, if you're invited to a Georgian barbecue, don't be surprised if you're welcomed with open arms and a skewer of mtsvadi.
Where to try mtsvadi in Tbilisi:
- Khasheria – This restaurant is located in a historic building and serves up traditional Georgian dishes, including delicious mtsvadi.
- Kavkazskaya Plennitsa – This restaurant is known for its cozy atmosphere and authentic Georgian cuisine, including mtsvadi.
- Samikitno – This restaurant is a great option for trying several types of Georgian dishes, including mtsvadi.
Lobio – The Georgian Bean Stew
For a vegetarian option that's still full of flavor, try lobio, a type of bean stew that's made with red kidney beans, onions, garlic, and a blend of Georgian spices. Lobio is usually served with fresh herbs and a side of mchadi, a type of cornbread. It's a hearty and satisfying dish that's perfect for a chilly evening.
Lobio is not only a delicious dish but also a symbol of simplicity and sustainability. In Georgia, lobio is a traditional peasant dish that's made with simple, locally sourced ingredients. It represents a way of life that's in harmony with nature and the land. So, if you're looking for a dish that's both delicious and meaningful, give lobio a try.
Where to try lobio in Tbilisi:
- Gabriadze Theater Cafe – This charming cafe is located in the old town and serves up delicious Georgian dishes, including a tasty lobio.
- Pur Pur – This restaurant is known for its cozy atmosphere and creative take on Georgian cuisine, including a delicious vegetarian version of lobio.
- Barbarestan – This restaurant is a great option for trying several types of traditional Georgian dishes, including a flavorful lobio.
Other Georgian Delicacies to Try
Of course, there are many other delicious Georgian dishes to try while you're in Tbilisi. Here are a few more to add to your list:
- Badrijani – This dish is made with eggplant that's stuffed with a mixture of ground walnuts, garlic, and herbs. It's usually served cold and makes a great appetizer.
- Chakhokhbili – This is a type of stew made with chicken, tomatoes, onions, and a blend of Georgian spices. It's a comforting and flavorful dish that's perfect for a chilly evening.
- Pkhali – This dish is made with chopped vegetables like spinach, beets, or green beans, mixed with ground walnuts, garlic, and herbs. It's usually served cold and makes a great side dish or appetizer.
Conclusion
Georgian cuisine is a unique and flavorful experience that's not to be missed while you're in Tbilisi. From hearty meat dishes to fresh salads and cheesy bread, there's something for everyone to enjoy. Be sure to try some of the must-try dishes like khinkali, khachapuri, mtsvadi, and lobio, and don't be afraid to explore other Georgian delicacies as well. With so many delicious options to choose from, you're sure to have a memorable culinary experience in Tbilisi.