Taste Tbilisi – a delicious Food & Drink walk of Tbilisi

Taste Tbilisi – a delicious Food & Drink walk of Tbilisi

This 3.5-hour guided food walking tour in Tbilisi offers an authentic taste of Georgian cuisine, led by knowledgeable local guides. The tour begins at Freedom Square outside Dunkin Donuts and takes you through the historic Sololaki district, renowned for its Art Nouveau architecture and lively backstreets. With a focus on local food, wine, and spirits, the experience combines culinary exploration with cultural insights. The tour is available as a private or small-group experience, ensuring personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere.

Rated 5 out of 5 from 29 reviews, this tour consistently delights visitors with its diverse tastings, engaging storytelling, and authentic atmosphere. While it includes meat dishes and alcohol, options for vegetarian, vegan, alcohol-free, and other dietary restrictions are available upon request. It’s ideal for those eager to go beyond typical tourist spots and dive into Tbilisi’s culinary scene with a friendly, expert guide.

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Key Points

• Authentic Georgian cuisine served in historic venues and backstreets of Tbilisi’s Sololaki district
• Taste at least 10 different foods and drinks including khinkali, wine, and chacha
• Learn about Georgian history and culture through storytelling from experienced guides
• Flexible options available for vegetarian, vegan, and dietary restrictions
• Start at Freedom Square and explore hidden gems beyond typical tourist routes
• Tour duration of 3.5 hours makes it an ideal introduction to the city’s culinary scene

Starting Point at Freedom Square with a Local Guide

The tour begins at outside Dunkin Donuts, Pushkin Street 1-3, located at Freedom Square — a central and recognizable spot in Tbilisi. From here, the guide leads guests into the backstreets of Sololaki, a district once filled with splendor, now bustling with authentic eateries, wine bars, and taverns. The meeting point provides a convenient starting location for those staying in or near the historic center.

Throughout the tour, the guide shares insights into the history of the neighborhood, including its Art Nouveau architecture and its role in Tbilisi’s past. The walk ends back at the starting point, making it easy for participants to continue exploring or head to their next destination.

Exploring the Historic Sololaki District

As the tour progresses, visitors find themselves in backstreets lined with magnificent Art Nouveau buildings that showcase the city’s former elegance. These streets are full of hidden taverns and trendy restaurants, many of which are not easily found by self-guided exploration. The guide ensures guests see these special spots, offering insights into local architecture and history.

The district’s vibe is lively yet intimate, making it a great place to truly experience Tbilisi’s authentic atmosphere. The area’s ambiance, combined with the stories shared by guides Luka or Levan, creates an engaging backdrop for sampling Georgian cuisine.

Tasting Georgian Classics – From Khinkali to Beets

One of the tour’s highlights is tasting a variety of over 10 foods and drinks. Guests enjoy Khinkali dumplings, the iconic Georgian meat or vegetarian-filled dumplings, alongside vegetarian starters like eggplant and stuffed peppers. Flaky cheese and bean pastries are offered as savory treats, complemented by fresh salads made from seasonal ingredients.

Warm dishes such as stews and baked chicken are also sampled, showcasing the hearty side of Georgian cooking. The guide explains the culinary heritage behind each dish, adding context to the flavors.

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Savoring Georgian Wines and Spirits

No Georgian experience would be complete without sampling its renowned natural wines produced with Qvevri technology. These wines feature unique flavors found only in Georgia’s wine regions. Plus, the tour offers a taste of Chacha, a traditional strong spirit often called “liquid happiness”.

Guests are encouraged to ask questions about the wines and spirits, gaining an appreciation for Georgia’s ancient wine-making traditions. The guide shares stories behind each beverage, making the tasting moments both educational and enjoyable.

Sampled Delights: Spices, Churchkhela, and More

As part of the experience, guests sample spices and Churchkhela, a traditional Georgian “candle” candy made with nuts and grape juice. This sweet treat provides insight into local confectionery traditions. The tastings are carefully selected to highlight Georgia’s diverse flavors, from savory to sweet.

These treats, paired with the wines and spirits, offer a well-rounded glimpse into Georgian culinary artistry. The guide’s explanations help guests understand what makes each item special.

Customizable Dining Options for Dietary Restrictions

While the tour naturally includes meat dishes and alcohol, vegetarian, vegan, and alcohol-free options are available. Guests are advised to inform the provider beforehand if they have specific dietary needs. This flexibility ensures everyone can enjoy the culinary journey comfortably.

Note that Halal and Kosher options are not provided, but the vegetarian and vegan choices can still offer a satisfying experience. The emphasis remains on authentic local flavors, with the guide tailoring the experience to suit dietary preferences.

The Quality of Guides: Knowledge and Storytelling

Reviews frequently praise the guides for their knowledgeable, friendly, and engaging storytelling. Guides like Luka, Giorgi, or Levan share history, cultural insights, and personal stories, making the tour educational and fun. Many mention how guides go above and beyond by adjusting the experience to suit dietary requests and by providing personalized attention.

Their ability to share local secrets and answer questions enriches the experience, making it feel more like exploring with a local friend than just a tour.

The Value of the Experience

Given the inclusion of at least 10 tastings of food, wine, and spirits, the tour offers good value for money. The small-group or private setting enhances the experience’s intimacy, and the local guide’s expertise ensures you learn about Tbilisi beyond just eating.

The flexibility in booking, with options to cancel up to 24 hours in advance and reserve now and pay later, adds convenience for travelers planning their Georgia itinerary.

Is This Tour Suitable for All Travelers?

This experience suits food lovers, culture enthusiasts, and those eager to explore beyond tourist hotspots. It is accessible for most, though guests should be comfortable with walking on uneven streets and standing for periods. The tour’s casual pace and the opportunity to ask questions make it particularly engaging.

For those with specific dietary restrictions or vegetarian preferences, advance notice is recommended to ensure suitable options are available.

Final Reflection: A Taste of Georgia’s Heart

The Taste Tbilisi Food & Drink Walk offers an authentic, friendly, and flavorful introduction to Georgia’s culinary heritage. Its knowledgeable guides, diverse tastings, and charming neighborhood stops make it a memorable way to discover Tbilisi’s local flavors.

While the tour includes meat and alcohol by default, the availability of vegetarian and vegan options broadens its appeal. The experience is best suited for foodies, culture buffs, or anyone looking to see a different side of Tbilisi—away from busy tourist routes, in lively historic streets filled with stories and flavors.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts 3.5 hours, offering a relaxed pace to enjoy multiple tastings and stories.

Where does the tour start and end?
It starts outside Dunkin Donuts at Freedom Square and finishes back at the same location, making it easy to continue exploring afterwards.

Are vegetarian options available?
Yes, vegetarian, vegan, and alcohol-free options can be arranged if informed in advance.

What foods are included?
Guests sample Khinkali dumplings, vegetarian starters, cheese and bean pastries, salads, warm dishes, spices, Churchkhela, wine, and chacha.

Do I need to pay extra for drinks?
No, local wines and spirits like chacha are included in the tour price.

Is this tour private or shared?
It is available as a private group or small shared group, ensuring a personalized experience.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, full cancellation is possible up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Who are the guides?
Guides such as Luka, Giorgi, or Levan are known for their knowledgeable, friendly, and storytelling skills.

Is this suitable for families or solo travelers?
Absolutely, especially for those interested in food and culture, and the tour is enjoyable whether you’re solo or in a small group.

Are there any dietary restrictions I should inform about?
Yes, please notify the provider in advance if you require vegetarian, vegan, or alcohol-free options.

What makes this tour stand out?
Its focus on authentic Georgian cuisine, personalized storytelling, and exploring hidden neighborhoods distinguishes it from other culinary tours in Tbilisi.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby