Tbilisi, the capital of Georgia, is renowned for its delicious food, including traditional Georgian dishes and international cuisine. While there are many high-end restaurants and cafes in Tbilisi that are popular among tourists, it's always a good idea to explore the places where the locals eat. Here's a guide to some of the best local eateries in Tbilisi.
Pasanauri
Located in the heart of Tbilisi's old town, Pasanauri is a popular restaurant that serves khinkali, a traditional Georgian dumpling filled with meat, cheese, or mushrooms. The restaurant's interior is simple and cozy, and the khinkali is made fresh daily. A plate of hot khinkali, paired with a cold beer or Georgian wine, is the perfect meal to enjoy with friends.
Barbarestan
Barbarestan is a charming restaurant located in a historic building in Tbilisi's old town. The restaurant is named after a 19th-century cookbook written by a Georgian princess. The menu at Barbarestan features traditional Georgian dishes made with locally-sourced ingredients. Some of the standout dishes include the khachapuri (cheese bread) and chakapuli (a lamb stew with herbs and sour plums).
Samikitno
Samikitno is a popular bakery that serves some of the best khachapuri in Tbilisi. The bakery is located in the Vake neighborhood and is always busy with locals grabbing a quick breakfast or snack. The khachapuri at Samikitno is made fresh daily and is served hot and gooey.
Sakhachapure No.1
Sakhachapure No.1 is another popular bakery that specializes in khachapuri. The bakery has several locations throughout Tbilisi, including one in the Saburtalo neighborhood. In addition to the classic cheese-filled khachapuri, Sakhachapure No.1 also serves a variety of other savory and sweet pastries.
Shaurma Club
Shaurma Club is a popular fast food chain in Tbilisi that serves delicious shaurma (also known as shawarma). The restaurant's interior is modern and stylish, and the menu features a variety of shaurma options, including chicken, beef, and falafel. The portions are generous, and the prices are affordable.
Lomsia
Lomsia is a traditional Georgian restaurant located in the Vera neighborhood. The restaurant's interior is rustic and cozy, and the menu features a variety of Georgian dishes, including grilled meat and vegetable dishes. Lomsia is a favorite among locals for its delicious food and friendly atmosphere.
Natakhtris Khe
Natakhtris Khe is a small restaurant located in the Sololaki neighborhood that serves traditional Georgian dishes made with fresh, locally-sourced ingredients. The menu changes frequently based on what's in season, but some of the standout dishes include the lobio (a bean stew) and the mtsvadi (grilled meat on skewers).
These are just a few of the many local eateries in Tbilisi that are popular among locals. Whether you're looking for a quick snack or a hearty meal, these places offer a delicious taste of Georgian cuisine.
