We will tell you about the best restaurants and cafes in the city, where you should go to eat a tourist.
When visiting Georgia, you can completely forget about cooking—at least for a while. The local cuisine is so delicious and diverse that everyone who travels to this country should try dishes prepared by local chefs at least once. Every Georgian city, including the capital, is known for its culinary masterpieces. This article is dedicated to the best places to eat in Tbilisi, as tens of thousands of travelers come to this city every year. In addition to historical landmarks, they are also interested in places where they can enjoy a hearty and tasty meal. We hope our information will make it much easier for you to find such spots.
Where to Eat in Tbilisi
It’s quite difficult to cover everything this city has to offer in terms of gastronomy in a short overview. Tbilisi boasts a large number of quality establishments where you can not only satisfy your hunger but also have a great time.
Guests and locals alike are warmly welcomed in fine-dining restaurants as well as places offering a more casual dining experience. Those who are not fond of formal restaurant settings can stop by one of the many khinkali houses scattered throughout the capital. Fast food lovers will find familiar options at McDonald's. And of course, there's always the option of preparing your own meals using fresh ingredients from local stores.
Cafes and Restaurants
We present to you a list of the most popular establishments, compiled according to a specific scheme, starting with the most popular ones.
"Maspinzeli"
This restaurant is located near the sulfur baths in Abanotubani, and its name translates from Georgian as "welcoming guests." The building has a summer terrace where it's very comfortable to sit during the summer season. It's a cozy place that serves traditional Georgian cuisine and is loved by the locals. The portions are simply enormous, so those with a hearty appetite won't go hungry when visiting this place.
Address: 7 Gorgasali Street.
Average Price: $20-30 per person.
"Tsiskvili"
This restaurant offers fine dining, and the interior will captivate you from the moment you enter. The national-style decor creates an incredibly vibrant atmosphere. There is a real mill inside that is powered by a small waterfall. Several halls, some of which are private, attract visitors with their unique ambiance and mood.
Address: 99 Beliashvili Street.
Average Price: $30-40 per person.
"Phaeton"
This restaurant, like "Maspinzeli," is very popular among the locals. So, those who plan to have lunch or spend an evening there should make a reservation in advance. The restaurant serves beautifully presented local cuisine. The cozy, ethnic-style ambiance allows guests to experience the atmosphere of Georgia while enjoying delicious dishes and beverages.
Address: 105 Beliashvili Street.
Average Price: $30-40 per person.
"Urmuli"
"Urmuli" can be called a restaurant complex since guests are accommodated in wooden cottages designed for 6 people. There is also a large central hall, but it is less cozy and more suitable for large events like weddings, anniversaries, and other celebrations. The restaurant is famous for its signature dish, "chkmeruli," which is made from pieces of chicken according to a special recipe originating from the village of Chkmeri.
Address: Near Guramishvili Metro Station.
Average Price: $20-25 per person.
Cafe "LEGVI"
This unique cafe with a loft-style interior is located in the historic part of the city. According to Tbilisi traditions, it is usually a popular spot for dates. Visitors are provided with blankets on cool evenings, and there is wheelchair access. The cafe serves delicious coffee and offers a wide range of desserts.
Address: 1 Botanikuri Street.
Average Price: $25-35 per person.
"Zahar Zaharich"
"Zahar Zaharich" is a small restaurant conveniently located near the Dry Bridge. It offers a wide selection of primarily Georgian dishes at very affordable prices. This establishment is perfect for those who enjoy hearty and budget-friendly meals.
Address: 3 Right Bank.
Average Price: $20-25 per person.
Khinkali Restaurants
"U Velyaminova"
"U Velyaminova" is one of the oldest places of its kind in Tbilisi, where you can try some of the tastiest khinkali. Here, you’ll also learn how to eat them properly. First, bite the edge of the dough, drink the broth inside, and only then eat the rest. The top knot of dough is usually left on the plate.
Address: 8 Dadiani Street.
Average check: 20 – 25 GEL per person.
House of Khinkali
The House of Khinkali is a place where you’ll be served quickly and deliciously. It’s not luxurious inside, but the food is good, and the staff are extremely friendly. You can also order takeaway here.
Address: on the square near Rustaveli metro station.
Average check: 25 – 40 GEL per person.
Affordable and Fast
Like in any other European city, Tbilisi offers many fast food options. Pizza lovers can order a portion at local pizzerias for around 2–3 GEL.
If you decide to visit McDonald's, be prepared for the following prices:
Big Mac — 9.5 GEL;
Cheeseburger — 4.2 GEL;
French fries — 5.5 GEL;
Coffee — 4.0 GEL;
Ice cream — 3.0 GEL.
All McDonald's locations are well air-conditioned, making them a great place to relax and escape the heat.
Shops and Supermarkets
If you're not a fan of restaurant food or dislike eating on the go, we recommend shopping at supermarkets and grocery stores. The variety in Tbilisi is excellent, so you'll easily find everything you need to cook a home-style lunch or dinner.
