Tbilisi Food Guide: Where to Eat in Tbilisi, Georgia

15 best restaurants in Tbilisi

1. Pasanauri

If you’re searching for traditional Georgian food in Tbilisi, Pasanauri is a must-visit. This popular restaurant has several locations across the city and is one of the best-rated spots on TripAdvisor. For all the right reasons.

Pasanauri offers all the classic Georgian dishes you’d expect, making it a perfect place for anyone trying local food for the first time. We ended up visiting multiple times and tried almost everything on the menu. 

One surprising highlight for me was the kebabi. Normally, not something I order, but here it was unforgettable. Juicy, flavorful, and perfectly grilled, it might just be the best kebabi in Tbilisi.

If you’re after khinkali, khachapuri, or grilled meats, Pasanauri covers all the essentials in a casual, no-fuss setting. It’s a great place to get a full taste of Georgian cuisine without spending too much or needing a reservation.

2. Old City Wall

Old City Wall is a medieval-style restaurant in the heart of Tbilisi’s historic center and one of the most unique places to eat in Old Tbilisi. The atmosphere is warm and authentic, with stone walls and a cozy interior that feels like a step back in time.

The menu features creative Georgian dishes made with traditional ingredients, many of which aren’t commonly found in other restaurants. It’s a great place to try something new and enjoy a different side of local cuisine.

They sometimes host live music, which adds even more character to the experience. To check the schedule, it’s best to contact them on Facebook. This spot is perfect for those looking to enjoy good food in a setting full of history and charm.

3. Rigi

If you’re looking for one of the best restaurants in Tbilisi, Rigi is a great choice. This stylish spot serves classic Georgian food with a modern touch, focusing on bold flavors and comforting hot dishes. The setting is elegant but relaxed.

At Rigi, we ordered a variety of plates to share, which gave me the chance to try many dishes. Everything was delicious, but the standout for me was shkmeruli, which is a rich and creamy garlic chicken dish. The khachapuri and cheese plate were also excellent.

With its mix of tradition and style, Rigi is easily one of the fanciest places where to eat in Tbilisi. It’s ideal if you want to enjoy a refined version of Georgian cuisine in a warm, welcoming atmosphere.

4. Grafika

Grafika quickly became one of my favorite top places to eat in Tbilisi. I passed by this restaurant many times while staying nearby, but I wrongly assumed it might be just another trendy spot. I finally gave it a try, and honestly, I wish I had gone in sooner.

The menu at Grafika is full of creative dishes that still stay true to Georgian roots. Some standouts include the rich mushroom soup, juicy mini kebabs, and an unforgettable chicken with blackberry sauce that perfectly blends sweet and savory.

With its stylish vibe, great service, and inventive food, Grafika is a place that feels both familiar and fresh. It’s a perfect pick if you’re looking for a meal that goes beyond the basics but still reflects Georgian tradition.

5. Kakhelebi

If you’re looking for authentic local food spots in Tbilisi, Kakhelebi is a place you shouldn’t miss. While I found many restaurants through online research, this one came highly recommended by not one, but two local friends. So I knew it had to be something special.

What makes Kakhelebi stand out is its focus on quality ingredients. Many of the products come directly from their own farm and garden, which you can really taste in every dish. The menu is simple, but everything is done right. 

If you’re into grilled meats, you’ll love the veal shashlik. It was hands down the best I’ve ever had, even coming from a country known for barbecue. Pair it with a fresh Georgian salad and a glass of house wine, and you’ve got a truly satisfying meal. 

Kakhelebi is a great choice if you want traditional flavors, high-quality food, and a local experience without the touristy feel. It is a bit far away from central Tbilisi, but a great stop on your way to Mtskheta.

6. Restaurant Littera

For anyone seeking fine dining in Tbilisi, Georgia, Restaurant Littera is an excellent place to start. Located in the peaceful garden of the Writers’ House, this elegant spot offers a refined dining experience in one of the city’s most beautiful settings.

The menu doesn’t focus heavily on traditional Georgian cuisine, but the quality of the food is outstanding. Every dish is carefully prepared and beautifully presented. Highlights include the perfectly cooked sea bass and tender pork belly, both rich in flavor and balance.

With its quiet atmosphere, professional staff, and attention to detail, Restaurant Littera is ideal for a special evening out or anyone looking to enjoy high-end dining in Tbilisi.

7. Café Leila

Café Leila is one of the most charming spots in the city and easily the best restaurant in Tbilisi for vegetarians who still want to try Georgian-inspired food.

While many vegetarian places in Tbilisi lean toward international dishes, Café Leila blends plant-based cooking with local traditions.

The menu includes tasty vegetarian versions of Georgian favorites, and the bean dishes are especially worth trying. The interior is beautifully designed, with vintage touches and a cozy, artistic vibe that makes the whole experience even more special.

Café Leila proves that vegetarian food in Tbilisi can be both traditional and creative, and it’s a great choice for a relaxed and satisfying meal.

8. Marani

Marani is one of the most popular restaurants in Tbilisi with a view, and once you arrive, it’s easy to see why. The panoramic views over the city are stunning, especially in the evening when everything lights up.

As for the food, it’s traditional Georgian cuisine. Overall, it’s decent and enjoyable, but what truly stood out for me was the dessert.

After being a bit disappointed by sweets in other places, I was ready to skip it, but I’m so glad I didn’t. Their honey cake was absolutely amazing, definitely a 5 out of 5.

If you’re looking for a restaurant with a great vibe and beautiful views, Marani is a great place.

–> Want to learn more about Georgian food? Book this top-rated food tour in Tbilisi.

9. Churi (ჭური)

Churi is one of those rare finds that you stumble upon by chance and never forget. We came across it while visiting a local market and noticed it was full of locals, which is always a good sign. 

Located far from the usual tourist areas, this spot is as authentic as it gets and definitely one of the top budget-friendly restaurants in Tbilisi.

The food here is simple, traditional, and full of flavor. I had my best khinkali at Churi, perfectly filled with broth and just the way it should be. We also shared khachapuri and left fully satisfied. The price? Only 8 euros for lunch for two people. That kind of value is hard to beat.

Churi is a local gem that deserves more attention. But bring Google Translate because the menu is only available in Georgian.

10. Cafe Stamba

Cafe Stamba stands out among the many popular cafes in Tbilisi thanks to its unique setting inside a former Soviet-era publishing house.

The space is large, bright, and beautifully designed, with high ceilings, indoor plants, and an artsy vibe that makes it a favorite for both locals and visitors.

The menu mixes international dishes with a few Georgian touches, and everything is well-prepared and nicely presented. It’s a great place for brunch, coffee, or even a casual dinner.

I have to admit that this wouldn’t be my number one choice when it comes to the Tbilisi food scene, however, the atmosphere is great! I also recommend ordering from the international menu, because local dishes were a bit disappointing compared to other Tbilisi restaurants.

11. Old Metekhi

Old Metekhi is a great place to enjoy authentic Georgian cuisine in Tbilisi with a view to match. Located right above the river, the restaurant overlooks the rooftops of old Tbilisi, so try to get a table by the window for the full experience.

The menu features all the classic Georgian dishes, cooked with care and full of flavor. The service is warm and professional, making the whole visit even more enjoyable.

With its combination of traditional food, great hospitality, and scenic views, Old Metekhi is a memorable place to enjoy a meal in Tbilisi.

12. Cafe Frida’s at Hotel Checkpoint

Cafe Frida’s at Hotel Checkpoint is one of the most Instagrammable places in Tbilisi, and it’s easy to see why. With its colorful design, stylish decor, and artistic atmosphere, it quickly became a favorite photo spot in the city.

They serve only pancakes, and surprisingly, they were some of the best I’ve had in a long time. Fluffy, flavorful, and beautifully presented. It’s a great place for a late breakfast or a sweet treat.

13. Entreè

Finding a proper breakfast in Georgia can be tricky since most places open after 10am, and early coffee isn’t always easy to come by. That’s why Entreè is one of the best breakfast spots in Tbilisi.

This French-style bakery and café opens early and offers good coffee, fresh pastries, and light breakfast options, perfect for starting your day. They have multiple locations across the city, so it’s easy to find one near you.

Entreè might not be traditional, but it’s reliable, tasty, and exactly what you need when everything else is still closed.

14. Karalashvili wine cellar

Karalashvili Wine Cellar was one of my favorite discoveries in Tbilisi. It’s a family-run wine cellar hidden in the heart of the Old Town, and it truly offers the best wine tasting in Tbilisi.

The space itself is over 200 years old and full of character. Walls lined with antiques, old barrels, and a cozy atmosphere that instantly pulls you in.

The tasting included five different wines, all made using traditional Georgian methods, plus a glass of chacha (which is strong but worth trying). We also got a cheese board to go with the wine, which made the whole experience even better.

The host shared stories about their family’s winemaking history, and I really appreciated how personal and authentic it all felt. If you want to learn about Georgian wine and taste something truly special, this is the place to go.

15. Cooking Class

At this point, we all know khinkali and khachapuri, but do you think you can actually cook them? I decided to challenge myself and joined a cooking class. It was one of the most fun things I did in Tbilisi.

I’m not a great cook, but with a bit of help, I managed to make tasty khinkali, so I’m pretty sure you can do it too. We learned how to prepare Ajarian khachapuri (the one with the egg in the middle) and khinkali, and it all ended with a proper Georgian feast.

It’s a hands-on experience and a great way to understand Georgian food culture. If you want something fun, tasty, and memorable, this is your sign to book it.