Georgian cuisine is one of the country's greatest treasures, combining fresh ingredients, bold flavors, and centuries-old traditions. From cheese-filled bread to savory dumplings, Georgian food is a culinary adventure that will delight every food lover.
Khachapuri - Georgia's National Dish
No visit to Georgia is complete without trying khachapuri, the beloved cheese-filled bread. The most famous variety is Adjarian khachapuri, shaped like a boat and topped with a raw egg and butter. Other regional varieties include Imeretian (circular with cheese inside) and Megrelian (with extra cheese on top).
Khinkali - Georgian Dumplings
These juicy dumplings are filled with spiced meat (traditionally beef and pork), herbs, and broth. The proper way to eat khinkali is to hold them by the twisted top, take a small bite, sip the broth, then eat the rest. The twisted top is typically left on the plate as a way to count how many you've eaten.
Mtsvadi - Georgian Barbecue
Georgian shashlik (mtsvadi) is marinated meat grilled over an open fire. Usually made with pork or beef, it's seasoned simply with salt, pepper, and sometimes pomegranate juice. It's often served with tkemali (sour plum sauce) and fresh vegetables.
Badrijani Nigvzit - Eggplant Rolls
Thin slices of fried eggplant rolled around a walnut paste filling, garnished with pomegranate seeds. This elegant appetizer showcases Georgia's love for walnuts and represents the perfect balance of flavors and textures.
Lobio - Bean Stew
A hearty stew made with red kidney beans, herbs, and spices, traditionally served in a clay pot. It's often accompanied by mchadi (cornbread) and pickled vegetables. Lobio is comfort food at its finest and a staple of Georgian home cooking.
Pkhali - Vegetable Pâté
These colorful vegetable pâtés are made from spinach, beets, or beans mixed with ground walnuts, garlic, and herbs. Shaped into balls and garnished with pomegranate seeds, pkhali is both beautiful and delicious.
Churchkhela - Georgian Snickers
Often called "Georgian Snickers," churchkhela is a traditional candy made by dipping strings of nuts (usually walnuts or hazelnuts) into grape juice thickened with flour. The result is a chewy, sweet treat that's perfect for energy on the go.
Georgian Sauces
Georgian cuisine features several distinctive sauces:
- Tkemali - Tart plum sauce, perfect with grilled meats
- Ajika - Spicy pepper paste with herbs and garlic
- Satsebeli - Tomato-based sauce with herbs and spices
- Bazhe - Walnut sauce often served with fish or chicken
Georgian Bread
Beyond khachapuri, Georgia has several traditional breads. Shoti is the classic Georgian bread baked in a tone (traditional oven), with a distinctive elongated shape. Mchadi is cornbread often served with lobio or cheese.
Dining Etiquette
Georgian meals are social occasions centered around the supra (feast), led by a tamada (toastmaster). Expect multiple courses, generous portions, and many toasts with wine. It's considered polite to try everything offered and to participate in toasts.
Where to Try Georgian Food
While Tbilisi has excellent restaurants, some of the best Georgian food is found in family-run establishments and home kitchens. A private tour with a local guide can include authentic dining experiences and even cooking classes where you can learn to make these dishes yourself.
Ready to embark on a culinary journey through Georgia? Contact us to arrange a food-focused tour that includes the best restaurants, local markets, and authentic Georgian dining experiences.