Sighnaghi, often called the “City of Love,” is a small town in Georgia that offers much more than its charming streets and stunning views. It’s a perfect place to indulge in authentic Georgian cuisine, especially during lunch. Whether you’re after a quick taste of local flavors or a full culinary experience, Sighnaghi has something for every eater. I personally enjoy how some tours combine wine tastings with hearty regional food, making for a well-rounded midday break. For example, the From Tbilisi: Bodbe and Sighnaghi Tour with Supra Lunch offers a traditional Georgian supra—a lively feast accompanied by local wines and toastmasters—perfect if you want to experience Georgian hospitality firsthand.
While all these experiences promise authentic local flavors, they vary in scope, style, and focus. Some are full-day adventures with multiple tastings and visits, while others center on a single, memorable meal paired with wine. Below, I’ve compiled a list of the four best lunch experiences in Sighnaghi, highlighting what makes each special and who it’s best suited for.
1. From Tbilisi: Bodbe and Sighnaghi Tour with Supra Lunch
This lively full-day trip kicks off with a wine tasting at KTW Winery in Kakheti, followed by a visit to the Badiauri village for fresh Georgian bread and cheese. The highlight is the supra, a traditional Georgian feast led by a local toastmaster, where you’ll enjoy regional dishes, homemade wine, and the friendly atmosphere that Georgia does so well.
The tour includes a guided tour of Sighnaghi, a visit to Velistsikhe for a BBQ lunch with regional flavors, and wine tastings that showcase Georgia’s ancient winemaking traditions. What sets this experience apart is the interactive, communal style of eating—you won’t just sample food; you’ll be part of a lively celebration with locals. The guide speaks English, and the supra is a highlight for those wanting to dive into Georgian culture.
Perfect for travelers who love combining sightseeing with culinary immersion, this tour offers a balanced glimpse of Kakheti’s wine culture and local hospitality. The three-hour BBQ lunch and wine tasting make it a good value, especially if you want an all-in-one experience.
Bottom line: Ideal for those seeking a full day of cultural flavor, wine, and food with a lively atmosphere.
2. From Tbilisi: Kakheti Wine Tour with Lunch and Tastings
This tour offers a more personalized experience of Kakheti’s wineries and historic sites. Starting with a visit to the Bodbe Monastery, where Saint Nino’s tomb rests, it combines spiritual history with scenic beauty. Afterward, you’ll stroll through Sighnaghi, known as the “City of Love,” with its cobblestone streets and panoramic views.
The highlight is the lunch at a local winery or restaurant, where you’ll enjoy traditional Georgian dishes. You’ll also visit family-owned wineries, sampling artisanal red, white, and amber wines—a treat for wine lovers. The tour is private, making it flexible and tailored to your pace.
While reviews for this experience are mixed at 3/5, many appreciate the chance to learn about Georgia’s wine-making process from passionate locals. The tour balances cultural sites with authentic food and wine, making it a solid choice for travelers interested in both history and viticulture.
Bottom line: Best suited for those who want a relaxed, immersive day with a focus on wine and history, rather than a large group experience.
3. Tbilisi: Kakheti Wine Tour with Tastings and Lunch
This full-day trip combines cultural sightseeing with wine tasting and a hearty lunch. Starting from Tbilisi, you’ll visit Badiauri cheese tasting, explore Bodbe Monastery, and stroll through Sighnaghi for about 2.5 hours, soaking in the town’s charm. The trip also includes a visit to Telavi and a wine tasting at a local winery.
The lunch is designed to showcase Georgian hospitality, with regional dishes served at a local restaurant or winery. The tour is led by a friendly guide who offers insights into Kakheti’s historical and cultural significance. The itinerary’s pace is relaxed, making it accessible even for those with limited mobility.
Reviewers mention the warm, welcoming atmosphere, and the opportunity to learn directly from locals. The mix of history, scenery, and food makes it a good fit for travelers who want a comprehensive experience in just over ten hours.
Bottom line: Well suited for history and wine enthusiasts wanting a guided, cultural day with a good balance of sights and flavors.
4. Full-Day Wine Tour in Kakheti with Homemade Lunch
Rated 5/5, this tour offers an authentic taste of Georgian hospitality. Starting at 45 Betlemi St, you’ll visit Patardzeuli Wine for an hour-long tasting and Badiauri cheese for a quick snack. The highlight is the lunch with a local family, where you get to see how authentic Georgian meals are prepared and enjoy a warm, personal connection.
What makes this experience stand out is the small group size, ensuring a more intimate encounter with local hosts and their food. After lunch, you’ll visit a family winery to sample more homemade wines—red, white, and amber—adding another layer of authenticity to your day. All entry fees, tastings, and lunch are included, making it a hassle-free experience.
Many reviewers praise the genuineness of the experience and the quality of the homemade food and wine. It’s perfect for those who value personal connections and want to see the Georgian way of life firsthand. The focus on authenticity and hospitality provides a memorable, enriching experience.
Bottom line: An excellent choice for travelers looking for a personal, all-inclusive day with a focus on warm hospitality and genuine Georgian cuisine.
How to Choose Your Lunch Experience in Sighnaghi
When deciding between these options, consider your priorities: Are you after a full-day cultural and wine experience (full details here), or do you prefer a more relaxed, private tour (see here)?
If you enjoy interactive, lively meals with local traditions, the Supra Lunch is perfect. For those interested in history coupled with wine, the Kakheti wine tour from Tbilisi offers a rundown. And if authentic family hospitality appeals most, the Full-Day Kakheti Wine Tour should be your pick.
Remember, booking early is advised, especially during peak season, to secure your preferred time and ensure a smooth experience.
To sum it up, Sighnaghi’s lunch experiences are as diverse as its landscape. Whether you want a full culture with a lively supra, a relaxed private tour with emphasis on history and wine, or a personal meal with local family, there’s something to satisfy your appetite for authentic Georgian flavor. For most travelers, a combination of wine tastings and regional dishes offers the best taste of what makes this region unique. Whichever you choose, these tours promise a memorable midday feast—so be sure to reserve your spot early and prepare to enjoy the warmest hospitality Georgia has to offer.