Things to Do in Georgia for Food Lovers: A Guide to Georgian Cuisine
It won’t be news to travelers planning to visit Georgia that the country’s local cuisine is among the most distinctive and delicious. This concept wasn’t new in the old times, but now it’s more widely known, because of social media and the internet praising Georgian traditional food.
So you shouldn’t leave this country without tasting at least its main dishes. For those visiting Georgia for the first time, it might be a little confusing which ones to try and where to get the best dining experience. So let us give you some directions for making the right choices.
Must-try Traditional Georgian Food Choices
Georgian cuisine is famous for its unique flavors, which are formed by delicious, fresh, locally produced ingredients, spices, and recipes handed down through generations. So here are the main dishes that best represent the country's culinary heritage.
Khinkali
For foreigners, getting to know Georgian cuisine starts with khinkali, a dish that originates from the mountains. Imagine large dumplings filled with meat, usually beef or pork, seasoned with special spices and herbs – this is khinkali.
Before you taste it, you will need instructions on how to do it: Use just your hands. Grab the thick doughy knot at the top of the khinkali and take a small bite from one side. There will be hot broth inside; sip it and drink it entirely. Only afterward can you eat the rest. You will be considered a professional khinakli eater if you don’t pour juice on the plate. Don’t manage it the first time? It’s okay; next time it will be much easier.
Alongside traditional khinkali, you can also taste its vegetarian and vegan versions, filled with cheese, mushrooms, and potatoes. They are as delicious as the meat version.
Khachapuri
The second-most famous dish in Georgia is kachapuri, made with cheese and dough. One of the most popular versions originates from the Imereti region. Imeretian khachapuri's outstanding taste is created by the local cheese and baking techniques. Another popular version is the Adjarian Khachapuri also known as Cheese Boat, which originates from the seaside region. Because of its seaside location, it has a boat shape, filled with cheese and topped with an egg.
You can find khachapuri everywhere, from small bakeries and cafes to restaurants, but if you want to experience its true taste, you should choose your place carefully. If you visit us, we promise to serve you the best Georgian food possible.
Mtsvadi
Mtsvadi is a traditional Georgian barbecue prepared with pork, veal, or lamb. It’s not just cooked meat – it is the symbol of the Georgian feast and hospitality. In Georgia, Mtsvadi was always associated with special occasions – whether it was the country's main celebrations or family gatherings marking important dates.
Traditionally, mtsvadi is prepared on skewers, which gives the meat its distinctive texture and flavor. Slowly grilled over an open fire. With this cooking method, meat develops a subtle smoky aroma and flavor.
Plant-Based Delights: Pkhali and Lobio
Georgia is a paradise for vegans, vegetarians, and anyone who just enjoys plant-based dishes. One of the most distinctive dishes is phkali, prepared with minced leafy vegetables, crushed walnuts, garlic, onions, vinegar, and local spices. The mixture is shaped into small portions and is usually served cold as an appetizer before the main course.
Spinach is one of the most common ingredients used in pkhali, although beetroot, cabbage, eggplant, and beans are also popular variations.
Another plant-based dish is lobio (beans), whose uniqueness is also determined by Georgian spices. It is usually served with pickles and mchadi – Georgian corn bread. Believe us, you won’t have ever tasted beans in the form that you can taste in Georgia.
Experience the Authentic Georgian Supra
Georgian supra is something you need to experience. To explain, imagine a big table with a variety of local dishes, from appetizers like phkali to hot khinkali, mtsvadi, khachapuri, etc., all accompanied by local wine. It is not only about having dinner; it is an experience of tasting excellent dishes, drinking the best natural wine, and creating connections with loved ones.
You can experience it in Georgian families or create it yourself by visiting us at Tsiskvili. We will do our best to show you real Georgian hospitality, serve you delicious food, and offer a wide variety of local wines. We should mention that the dishes at our restaurants are made using traditional recipes and the freshest, highest-quality local ingredients.
If you decide to visit us at Ethno Tsiskvili, you will also have the possibility to attend our folk show, which is held every evening. On our main stage, you will enjoy Georgian polyphonic singing and choreography, performed by the outstanding ensembles.
Call us directly at +995 32 2 005 555 to reserve your place for an evening of exceptional dining and live folk performances.
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Guests will be able to taste a specially created menu featuring Tushetian khinkali and grilled dishes. They will also have a wide range of premium beers to choose from, including German Warsteiner, Schofferhofer, unfiltered Benedictine, Dutch Grolsch, and Czech Pilsner. Additionally, guests will have the opportunity to purchase beer at a special price during Beer Days.
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On the weekend of June 10-11, The culture of Kakheti will be showcased in the Tsiskvili's yard. offering guests authentic folklore, choreography, and the delights of Kakhetian wine and cuisine.
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On May 20, the "Festival of Georgian Regions" will open in the yard of Tsiskvili with the days of Imereti, introducing Georgian and foreign guests to the authentic culture and gastronomy of Imereti.
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The "Festival of Georgian Regions" is another initiative of the "Tsiskvili Group" aimed at popularizing the culture, folklore, choreography, and gastronomy of the country's various regions.
Approximately 400 specially invited guests attended "The Show," enjoying both the captivating performance and an exquisite dinner crafted specifically for the occasion under the guidance of Alex Natadze, the culinary expert behind the "Theatre" brand.
"The Tsiskvili Group proudly introduces its latest venture, a cutting-edge concept space - 'Theatre,' located on Beliashvili Street. This versatile venue comprises a stage and pavilion designed to host a diverse array of styles and genres. In a unique twist, guests attending events at 'Theatre' will also have the opportunity to enjoy a delightful dinner.
"On October 27-28, Tsiskvili Restaurant played host to a vibrant two-day beer festival at Beer Square. Attendees had the opportunity to savor premium-quality beers, including German Warsteiner and Schoferhofer, Dutch Grow, and Czech Pilsner—all available at half price during the festival.
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