The Taste of Georgia: The Best Dishes to Try!

When you think of Georgia, the breathtaking mountain landscapes, ancient culture, and welcoming people probably come to mind. But there is one aspect you absolutely cannot miss: Georgian cuisine. A mix of Eastern and European influences, spiced with ancient traditions and local ingredients. It may not be well-known among us Westerners, but did you know that Georgian cuisine is just as popular in the former Soviet countries as Italian food is in Western Europe? Join us on a culinary journey through Georgia, as we introduce you to the most iconic dishes and drinks you must try.

Khinkali

One of Georgia's most famous dishes, and you’ll find it on every restaurant menu. These are dumplings filled with spiced meat (or sometimes cheese or mushrooms). The trick is to take a small bite first and slurp out the broth before finishing the rest. Khinkali is a favorite among both locals and tourists, and an absolute must-try.

Khachapuri

Khachapuri is another iconic Georgian dish. This savory bread is filled with a rich cheese filling and comes in several variations. The most famous is Adjarian Khachapuri: a boat-shaped bread filled with cheese, butter, and an egg yolk that you mix in yourself. A real treat for cheese lovers! It’s usually served in restaurants and hard to find in bakeries. Originally, all the different versions come from various regions of Georgia. Over time, many variations have become widely available in bakeries and restaurants.

Mtsvadi

For meat lovers, Mtsvadi is the Georgian version of grilled meat skewers. Known as "shashlik" in other former Soviet countries, Mtsvadi is made from juicy pieces of pork, beef, and/or chicken, roasted over an open fire and often served with fresh herbs and onion rings. This dish is a favorite at festive gatherings and barbecues in the mountains. You'll find Mtsvadi on the menu in most restaurants, though the quality can vary.

Kupati with Tkemali

Kupati is a traditional dish, especially eaten in winter. These spicy sausages, made from pork and offal, are often served with Tkemali, a sour plum sauce that perfectly complements the spicy flavor.

Ostri

For those who love spicy food, Ostri is an excellent choice. This beef stew is cooked with tomatoes, garlic, and red pepper, delivering a wonderfully warming taste. Perfect for cold days or when you crave something savory. It's not as widely known, so not every restaurant has it on the menu.

Chkmeruli

Chkmeruli, a dish from the Racha region, is typically meant for two people. It consists of a whole roasted chicken drenched in a creamy garlic milk sauce. The combination of butter, milk, and lots of garlic makes this dish irresistible. Nowadays, it’s often served in restaurants as a dish for one, with half a chicken. While not available everywhere, a little searching will lead you to this tasty dish.

Iagni

Iagni is a traditional lamb stew, often cooked with tomatoes, onions, and fragrant spices. It’s served in a thick walnut sauce. This dish is rare in restaurants, as it’s not very popular. However, you’ll have the best chance of finding it in Batumi, where it originates. It might take some effort to find, but it’s definitely worth it when you do!

Baklava

Although Baklava is popular in many countries, the Georgian version has its own unique twist. With a rich walnut filling and a layer of honey or syrup, this sweet treat is the perfect way to end a Georgian meal or enjoy as a snack.

Churchkhela

Speaking of snacks, Churchkhela looks like a colorful candle but is actually a nutritious candy made from walnuts strung together and dipped in thickened grape juice. It’s a popular snack and a perfect energy boost for travelers and hikers. You can find it almost everywhere, but for the best quality, look for it at a local market.

Georgian Bread

Georgian bread is traditionally baked in a clay oven, which gives it a crispy crust and soft interior. It’s available almost everywhere in small bakeries, costing usually between 1 and 2 lari (€0.30 to €0.60). It’s so delicious and fresh that it's wonderful even without any toppings.

Georgian Wine

Georgia is considered the birthplace of wine production, with over 8,000 years of history. Local grape varieties such as Saperavi (red) and Rkatsiteli (white) are still fermented in traditional qvevri (clay vessels buried underground). The taste is incredibly pure and intense.

Chacha

Chacha is a strong drink distilled from grape pomace, with an alcohol content that can reach up to 60%. This potent beverage is often served as a digestif after a large meal. Chacha is so popular that there’s even a fountain in Batumi that used to flow with Chacha instead of water.

Feijoa

Feijoa is an exotic fruit used in Georgia to make juices and jams. Its flavor is a mix between pineapple and guava, offering a refreshing twist for sweet treats and beverages.

Handy to Know

By the way, a small note: The way restaurants in Georgia operate might be a little different from what you’re used to. On a menu, you won’t find distinct starters, main courses, and desserts. You just order whatever you feel like, and the dishes will often arrive in a random order. While Westerners may see this as bad service, it’s perfectly normal in Georgia and done in every restaurant this way.

These are just some of the best dishes you absolutely must try during your trip to Georgia. But Georgian cuisine has so much more to offer. You could easily travel through Georgia for three months and have something different to eat every night. Enjoy your culinary adventure and have fun on your journey through Georgia!

Do you want more information about this article, or do you have any questions about this article? Let me know in the comments, and I'll respond as soon as I can!