The 10 Best Restaurants in Tbilisi (2023)

Tbilisi’s culinary scene, including its renowned restaurants, is a delightful blend of Eastern European, Mediterranean, and Middle Eastern cuisines that reflect its diverse cultural influences. Georgian food, in particular, has become increasingly popular with its flavorful dishes such as khinkali (dumplings), khachapuri (cheese bread), and shashlik (grilled meat skewers). One can find traditional Georgian cuisine at many Tbilisi restaurants, offering various international options, including Italian, Turkish, Lebanese, and Vietnamese. In addition to restaurants, Tbilisi boasts a vibrant street food culture, with vendors selling everything from fresh oysters to hot chicken wings. Food markets like Deserter’s Bazaar and Dry Bridge Market are also worth exploring for those seeking local flavors and unique ingredients. In this article, we will introduce you to the ten best restaurants in Tbilisi.
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Tbilisi Restaurant


1. Ninia’s Garden

Ninia’s Garden is a charming restaurant that combines Georgian flavors with a Middle Eastern influence. This restaurant is a hidden gem with its delightful atmosphere, delectable food, and picturesque garden. Situated within a residential house, Ninia’s Garden offers a spacious yard and an open area where up to 150 guests can be accommodated. Experience elegance and warm hospitality while indulging in the authentic tastes of Tbilisi restaurants at Ninia’s Garden.

Address: 97 Dimitri Uznadze St, Tbilisi 0102, Georgia 

Tbilisi Restaurant
Tbilisi Restaurant


2. Keto and Kote

Inspired by the Georgian opera “Keto & Kote,” Keto & Kote restaurant showcases a unique blend of artistic flair and culinary excellence. With a focus on using locally sourced ingredients, this restaurant in Tbilisi offers a modern interpretation of Georgian cuisine. The chefs expertly combine traditional flavors with innovative cooking techniques, creating a memorable dining experience. Alongside the exquisite dishes, the restaurant’s elegant ambiance, attentive staff, and stunning city views contribute to its reputation as one of the top Tbilisi restaurants, where the dining experience goes beyond just the food.

Address: Zandukeli Dead End, 3, Tbilisi 0179 Georgia

Tbilisi Restaurant
Tbilisi Restaurant


3. Shavi Lomi

Shavi Lomi, one of the renowned Tbilisi restaurants, offers a contemporary twist on beloved Georgian dishes. Inspired by the works of Niko Pirosmani, the restaurant pays tribute to the artist through its décor and ambiance. A must-try at Shavi Lomi is their signature dish, ‘Goby,’ which presents a delectable assortment of Georgian specialties artfully combined in a single bowl. This culinary delight provides a delightful sampling of must-eat Georgian flavors, resembling a tempting tasting menu.

Address: Qvlividze St.,30, Tbilisi 0114, Georgia

 

Tbilisi Restaurant


4. Kakhelebi

Kakhelebi, a gem among Tbilisi restaurants, specializes in delectable dishes from Georgia’s eastern Kakheti region, lovingly prepared by owners from this area. The restaurant takes pride in using fresh, organic produce sourced directly from their farm, while their house wine is crafted from grapes grown in their vineyard, established in 1955. The menu showcases three main highlights: abundant salads featuring unique combinations like a sorrel salad with dehydrated strawberries and pomegranate, traditional soups bursting with flavors, and irresistible meat dishes such as spit-roasted mtsvadi, slow-roasted pork, boiled chicken, and kebabs. With a choice of sit-down dining and a balcony upstairs, as well as a cafeteria-style eatery and take-away bakery downstairs, Kakhelebi offers a delightful culinary experience.

Address: 41 Akaki Beliashvili St, Tbilisi 0159, Georgia

Tbilisi Restaurant
Tbilisi Restaurant


5. Barbarestan

Barbarestan, one of the remarkable Tbilisi restaurants, embraces its identity as an actual family establishment. As you step inside, you’ll be warmly greeted by one of the members of this expansive family, with ten children, many of whom are actively involved in the restaurant’s operations. The name “Barbarestan” pays homage to the legendary Georgian chef Barbare Jorjadze, renowned for penning the first comprehensive book on Georgian cuisine in the 19th century. Drawing inspiration from this culinary treasure, the restaurant offers locals and visitors the chance to rediscover forgotten delights from Georgia’s rich heritage. If you ever visit this restaurant, remember to try rabbit wrapped in ham, pumpkin patties, and cherry soup with a refreshing hint of mint, prepared using locally sourced ingredients. While Barbarestan doesn’t serve beer, it boasts an exceptional selection of kvevri wines.

Address: D, 132 Davit Aghmashenebeli Ave, Tbilisi 0112, Georgia

Tbilisi Restaurant
Tbilisi Restaurant


6. Klike's Khinkali

You cannot miss out on visiting one of the renowned dumpling houses in Tbilisi. Situated uphill from Rustaveli Avenue, Klike’s Khinkali is a must-visit destination, offering the most authentic Khinkali in town. With a variety of delicious fillings to choose from, this restaurant also serves exceptional Georgian cuisine in a charming and cozy atmosphere. The attentive staff is always at your service, ensuring a memorable dining experience at one of the top Tbilisi restaurants.

Address: #1 Shio Chitadze St, Tbilisi 0108, Georgia

Tbilisi Restaurant


7. Cafe Littera

Tekuna Gachechiladze, a pioneering chef in Tbilisi’s culinary landscape, remains at the forefront of the city’s upscale dining scene. Her second establishment, Cafe Littera, showcases her talent for infusing traditional local ingredients with innovative techniques. Dishes like seared duck breast, fried sulguni cheese, and wild trout tartare incorporate Georgian delicacies such as adjika hot sauce, wild mushrooms, and sunflower seed oil. Located within a historic residence, the restaurant is enveloped by a picturesque garden that once housed and inspired numerous Georgian writers of the previous century. 

Address: 0105, 13 Ivane Machabeli St, Tbilisi, Georgia

Tbilisi Restaurant
Tbilisi Restaurant


8. Ethno-Tsiskvili

A short taxi ride from the city center, Ethno Tsiskvili is a must-visit among Tbilisi restaurants. This unique establishment offers more than just a dining experience, immersing guests in Georgian culture and history. The restaurant feels like a living museum with its stunning décor featuring an actual waterfall, vintage balconies, and traditional artifacts. Their extensive menu offers many authentic Georgian dishes, including rare specialties not easily found elsewhere. Don’t miss the nightly performances of classic songs and dances, starting at 8 pm. Be sure to request a table in the section of the restaurant where the show takes place for an unforgettable evening.

Address: 99 Akaki Beliashvili St, Tbilisi, Georgia

Tbilisi Restaurant


9. Mapshalia

When seeking a budget-friendly dining experience in Tbilisi, locals and visitors often point to Mapshalia as the top choice among Tbilisi restaurants. This establishment provides an authentic taste of Georgian cuisine and culture with prices that won’t break the bank. Be sure to try the elarji, a traditional dish best enjoyed alongside kharcho, a flavorful walnut-tomato sauce. To complete the experience, quench your thirst with a pitcher of the restaurant’s house wine.

Address: 137 Davit Aghmashenebeli Ave, Tbilisi, Georgia

Tbilisi Restaurant


10. Cafe Daphna

Cafe Daphna stands out as one of the most visually appealing Tbilisi restaurants, with its stunning interior design matching the quality of its cuisine. The restaurant offers a relaxed ambiance and affordable prices, making it an ideal choice for a quick lunch while exploring Dry Bridge Market or sightseeing along Rustaveli Avenue. Gather friends to savor the khinkali options, including the herb-free mtiuluri beef and pork-boiled dumplings. On chilly days, complement your khinkali with a comforting bowl of chikhirtma, a traditional Georgian chicken soup, and remember to pair your meal with a bottle of wine. Making a reservation in advance is advisable, as Cafe Daphna is immensely popular and tends to fill up quickly.

Address: Dry Bridge, 29 Atoneli St, Tbilisi, Georgia

 

Tbilisi Restaurant
Tbilisi Restaurant


Conclusion

In conclusion, Tbilisi boasts a vibrant culinary scene with diverse dining options. From traditional Georgian cuisine to international flavors, the city offers something for every palate. Whether seeking a fine dining experience or a budget-friendly meal, Tbilisi restaurants cater to all tastes and budgets. The 10 best restaurants in Tbilisi showcase Georgia’s rich flavors, warm hospitality, and unique cultural heritage. With their exquisite dishes, charming ambiance, and attentive service, these establishments truly stand out as the epitome of gastronomic excellence in the city. 

Best Restaurants in Tbilisi FAQ

Tbilisi restaurants offer a range of options, including traditional Georgian cuisine and international choices.

Tbilisi's street food culture offers diverse options, including fresh oysters, hot chicken wings, and much more.

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