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Good Restaurants in Tbilisi – Your Ultimate Guide to Culinary Delight

Good Restaurants in Tbilisi – Your Ultimate Guide to Culinary Delight
Houari Eddrief
8 min read
#tbilisi

Looking for good restaurants in Tbilisi that cater to every taste and craving? Whether you're a fan of traditional Georgian cuisine, a budget traveler, or a vegan foodie, Tbilisi's dining scene has something special for you. From scenic rooftop views to hidden local gems, the city is packed with mouthwatering flavors and unforgettable dining experiences. This guide will help you navigate the best places to eat, ensuring every meal in Tbilisi is a memorable one.


Traditional Georgian Cuisine – Must-Try Dishes in Tbilisi

When in Tbilisi, it’s essential to experience the authentic taste of Georgian cuisine. From savory pastries to hearty stews, each dish is a masterpiece of flavor and tradition. Here are some must-try dishes and where to find the best restaurants serving them.

Signature Dishes to Look For

  • Khinkali – Juicy dumplings filled with spiced meat or mushrooms.
  • Khachapuri – Cheese-filled bread that comes in different regional styles, with Adjarian Khachapuri being the most famous.
  • Lobio – A hearty bean stew, often served with cornbread (Mchadi).
  • Badrijani Nigvzit – Eggplant rolls filled with walnut paste, a popular appetizer.
  • Pkhali – A mix of vegetables, walnuts, and spices, perfect for vegans and vegetarians.

Best Places to Try Authentic Georgian Cuisine

  • Ezo – A family-style restaurant with a cozy backyard garden serving homestyle Georgian food.
  • Racha Tavern – A local favorite for budget-friendly, traditional meals.
  • Salobie Bia – Known for its delicious Lobio and Pkhali platters.

🍽️ Experience it yourself! Take part in a Georgian Cooking Class with Khinkali and Khachapuri and learn to make these iconic dishes from scratch.

Popular Georgian dishes served at good restaurants in Tbilisi

Best Fine Dining Restaurants in Tbilisi

If you’re looking for an elevated dining experience, Tbilisi’s fine dining scene won't disappoint. With elegant ambiance, gourmet menus, and world-class chefs, these upscale restaurants deliver a memorable experience.

Elegant Ambiance and Gourmet Menus

Fine dining in Tbilisi is not just about food—it’s an experience. These restaurants often feature modern interior design, scenic views, and impeccable service. Expect dishes crafted with fresh, local ingredients, often paired with Georgia's world-famous wine.

Top Recommendations for Fine Dining Restaurants

  • Shavi Lomi – A stylish restaurant offering a modern twist on traditional Georgian cuisine.
  • Barbarestan – A historic restaurant inspired by 19th-century Georgian recipes, located in a charming, rustic house.
  • Funicular Restaurant – Set on top of Mtatsminda Hill, it offers a stunning view of Tbilisi along with fine dining menus.
Khinkali and other traditional Georgian dishes served at good restaurants in Tbilisi

Best Budget-Friendly Restaurants in Tbilisi

Traveling on a budget? No problem! Tbilisi has plenty of restaurants where you can enjoy authentic meals at affordable prices. Here’s where to go if you want great food without breaking the bank.

Delicious Meals on a Budget

Budget-friendly restaurants in Tbilisi are known for offering large portions of delicious local food at low prices. Many of these spots offer traditional family-style meals, and you’ll often see locals dining here. Don’t be surprised if you spend under $10 for a full meal.

Top Affordable Restaurants to Visit

  • Machakhela – A casual chain restaurant known for its khinkali and Adjarian khachapuri.
  • Mapshalia – A local canteen serving homestyle Georgian food at unbeatable prices.
  • Shemoikhede Genatsvale – Affordable and delicious, with a great selection of traditional dishes.
Khachapuri, a delicious and affordable meal served at good restaurants in Tbilisi

Best Cafes and Brunch Spots in Tbilisi

Tbilisi’s café culture is thriving, and it's the perfect place for travelers who love brunch, specialty coffee, and cozy vibes. From Instagram-worthy latte art to hearty brunch platters, the city's cafes are worth exploring.

Cozy Atmosphere and Delicious Coffee

Tbilisi's cafe scene ranges from minimalist design spaces to quirky, artsy hangouts. They often double as coworking spaces, making them a great spot for digital nomads. Expect to find artisanal coffee, homemade pastries, and full brunch menus.

Top Brunch and Cafe Spots

  • Fabrika – A hipster hotspot with a courtyard filled with food stalls, cafes, and workspaces.
  • Linville – Vintage-style cafe known for its unique design and cozy ambiance.
  • Skola Coffee & Wine Bar – Offers specialty coffee, wine, and delicious all-day brunch options.
Cozy cafe interiors in good restaurants in Tbilisi

Rooftop and Scenic View Restaurants in Tbilisi

Dining with a view? Yes, please! Tbilisi’s rooftop restaurants provide breathtaking views of the city's skyline and the Mtkvari River. Here’s where to go for a dinner with a view.

###Dine with a View – Top Picks for Scenic Dining There’s something magical about dining with a panoramic view of the city below. Tbilisi’s best rooftop restaurants offer both aesthetic appeal and delicious food, making them perfect for romantic evenings or Instagram-worthy dining.

Best Restaurants with Rooftop Views of the City

  • Filini Restaurant – A chic rooftop spot located in the Radisson Blu hotel with stunning views of the river.
  • Sky Bar – A modern rooftop bar with cityscape views, cocktails, and casual dining.
  • Art-Cafe Home – A bohemian rooftop space with a cozy, artsy vibe, serving both food and drinks.
    Panoramic views from Filini Restaurant and Sky Bar.
Panoramic views from Filini restaurant in Tbilisi

How to Choose the Best Restaurant in Tbilisi

With so many options, how do you choose the perfect restaurant? Here are some tips to ensure you have an unforgettable dining experience.

Key Factors to Consider

  • Cuisine – Do you want traditional Georgian dishes, vegan options, or international flavors?
  • Ambiance – Looking for rooftop views, a cozy cafe, or a fine-dining experience?
  • Budget – Tbilisi offers both affordable options and upscale fine dining.
  • Location – Stay within the Old Town for proximity to tourist attractions.

Pro Tips for an Unforgettable Dining Experience

  • Make reservations at fine dining restaurants like Barbarestan.
  • Ask locals for recommendations on hidden gems.
  • Visit restaurants with live music for a lively experience.

🏨 Need a place to stay? Check out our guide on Where to Stay in Tbilisi for top-rated accommodations.

Couple enjoying a dinner at a restaurant in Tbilisi

Top Vegetarian and Vegan Restaurants in Tbilisi

If you're looking for vegan-friendly options in Tbilisi, you won't be disappointed. The city's growing vegan scene offers a variety of spots that cater to plant-based diets. Here are a few must-visit options:

  • Kiwi Vegan Cafe – A cozy spot with a creative menu of vegan burgers, wraps, and smoothies.
  • Mama Terra – Known for its fresh, healthy vegan dishes and homemade desserts.
  • Loving Hut – International vegan chain offering affordable, hearty meals.
  • Holmes & Watson – While not exclusively vegan, it offers several delicious plant-based options.

From veganized Georgian classics to international cuisine, Tbilisi has something for every taste.

Delicious vegan meal served at a restaurant in Tbilisi

Conclusion

Tbilisi is quickly becoming a hub for plant-based dining, with a wide range of vegan-friendly restaurants offering delicious meals that cater to every taste. Whether you're craving international flavors or local Georgian dishes with a vegan twist, you'll find plenty of options. From casual cafes to more upscale dining experiences, Tbilisi has something to offer for everyone on a plant-based diet.

If you're also interested in experiencing traditional Georgian cooking, consider joining a Georgian Cooking Class with Khinkali and Khachapuri and dive deeper into the country's culinary traditions.


FAQs about Good Restaurants in Tbilisi

What is the best restaurant for traditional Georgian food?

Some of the best options for traditional Georgian cuisine in Tbilisi include Ezo, Racha Tavern, and Salobie Bia.

Where can I find budget-friendly restaurants in Tbilisi?

If you're on a budget, head to places like Machakhela, Mapshalia, and Shemoikhede Genatsvale.

Are there good vegan or vegetarian restaurants in Tbilisi?

Yes! Many restaurants like Pkhali House and Sioni 13 offer vegetarian and vegan-friendly dishes.

Which restaurants offer the best views in Tbilisi?

For the best views, check out Filini Restaurant, Sky Bar, and Funicular Restaurant.

Do I need to make reservations at fine dining restaurants in Tbilisi?

It's recommended, especially for popular spots like Barbarestan and Shavi Lomi, as they fill up quickly.


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