Taste Tbilisi – a delicious Food & Drink walk of Tbilisi

If you’re planning to visit Tbilisi and want to get a genuine taste of what Georgian cuisine and culture have to offer, a food and drink tour like Taste Tbilisi might just be perfect. While we haven’t personally taken this exact walk, reviews and descriptions paint a clear picture of an engaging, flavorful experience that balances local history with culinary delights.

What stands out most about this tour are the authentic food tastings—from regional dishes to traditional wines—and the knowledgeable guides who bring the city’s stories alive. On the flip side, it’s worth noting that the tour is centered around a specific neighborhood and may not suit those with strict dietary restrictions unless you communicate beforehand.

This experience is ideal for travelers eager to explore Tbilisi through its flavors, especially if you enjoy wandering through historic streets, tasting at small local spots, and learning about Georgian culture from a friendly guide. It’s also a great way to start your Georgian adventure, leaving you with a deeper appreciation of the city and its culinary roots.

Key Points

• Authentic Tbilisi Cuisine: Focuses on local dishes, wines, and spirits, offering a genuine taste of Georgian flavors.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable, friendly guides share local stories and culinary insights.
• Diverse Tastings: You’ll sample at least 10 different foods and drinks, including wines made with ancient techniques.
• Historic Neighborhoods: The tour explores the eclectic Sololaki district, full of Art Nouveau architecture and vibrant backstreets.
• Flexible Options: Available as a private or small-group experience, with vegetarian and vegan options upon request.
• Value for Money: The tour’s length and variety of tastings provide a comprehensive introduction to Georgian cuisine.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tbilisi Food & Drink Tour

If you’re after a way to get to know Tbilisi beyond its surface, this guided walking tour offers a fantastic introduction. It lasts about 3.5 hours, giving you enough time to enjoy the food, sip some wine, and soak in the city’s atmosphere without feeling rushed.

Starting Point and First Impressions

The tour kicks off outside a Dunkin Donuts on Pushkin Street, right at Freedom Square—a central and easy-to-find location. From there, your guide introduces you to one of the city’s most iconic dishes at one of the oldest restaurants. This initial stop isn’t just about the food; it’s about setting the tone with a dish that embodies Georgian culinary tradition. Your guide shares snippets of history and tips on how to enjoy Georgian food like a local, which makes this a lovely way to start your adventure.

Exploring the Backstreets of Sololaki

The real charm of this tour lies in wandering through the backstreets of Sololaki, a neighborhood that reflects Tbilisi’s former splendor. Here, the architecture is a delight—though some buildings are in decay, their Art Nouveau facades tell stories of a bygone era. You’ll visit hidden taverns and trendy wine bars that aren’t on your typical tourist map.

This setting allows for a more intimate experience, away from the crowds, and provides a true glimpse into local life. As you walk, your guide shares stories about the neighborhood, Tbilisi’s vibrant history, and how contemporary life coexists with this historic backdrop.

What You’ll Taste

Throughout the walk, you get to try a variety of delicious Georgian specialties. Expect to sample Khinkali, those juicy, savory dumplings, which are a must-try. Vegetarian options like eggplant dishes and stuffed peppers are included, perfect if you prefer plant-based flavors. You’ll also enjoy cheese and bean pastries, flaky treats that are perfect snack-sized bites.

Fresh salads made with seasonal ingredients give you a taste of local produce, while hearty warm dishes like stews and baked chicken showcase the comfort-food side of Georgian cuisine. Each stop offers a new flavor profile, and your guide is there to explain their significance and the best way to enjoy them.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Drinks: Wine and Spirits

No Georgian meal is complete without wine, and this tour highlights some natural wines produced with ancient Qvevri methods—an experience in itself. You’ll learn about Georgia’s deep-rooted winemaking traditions and sample wines with unique flavors and textures.

But that’s not all—get ready to taste Chacha, a potent spirit often called “liquid happiness.” It’s strong, but it adds an authentic local touch to the experience. Multiple reviews mention the educational and fun nature of these tastings, with many travelers praising the guides for their wine and spirit knowledge.

The Insider Tips

Your guide doesn’t just introduce you to food and drinks—they share local tips on how to eat like a Georgian, where to find the best spots, and how to navigate traditional dining customs. Visitors have appreciated how guides adapt the tour to accommodate dietary restrictions, offering vegetarian or alcohol-free options when needed.

Overall Experience and Flexibility

The tour is offered as a small private group, which means you get a more personal experience. The cost includes a substantial variety of tastings, making it good value for the length and depth of the experience. Plus, you can reserve now and pay later, offering flexibility to plan your trip.

What Could Be Improved?

While the experience is highly praised, some might find the focus on certain neighborhoods limiting if they’re looking for a broader Georgian culinary overview. Also, those with strict dietary or religious restrictions should specify ahead, as halal or kosher options are unavailable.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

If you love food, enjoy exploring neighborhoods on foot, and are curious about local traditions, this tour ticks all those boxes. It’s especially suited for travelers who want a culinary introduction to Tbilisi, combining good eats with cultural stories. Families with adventurous eaters will likely enjoy it as well, but the focus on tasting alcohol and meat dishes might not suit everyone’s preferences.

It’s a great choice to kick off your Georgian trip, offering both food and cultural context in a relaxed, friendly setting. And if you’re a solo traveler or a small group, the private setting ensures a personalized experience.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, vegetarian options like eggplant dishes and stuffed peppers are available, and guides are open to adjusting menus for dietary needs with prior notice.

Does the tour include alcohol?
Yes, the experience features Georgian wines and chacha, a traditional spirit. Non-drinkers can ask about alternatives, but alcohol is a key part of the tasting.

How long does the tour last?
The tour runs for approximately 3.5 hours, giving enough time to enjoy the food, drinks, and neighborhood exploration.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins outside Dunkin Donuts at Pushkin Street 1-3, Freedom Square, and returns to the same location at the end of the walk.

What’s included in the price?
You get at least 10 food and drink tastings, including khinkali, salads, pastries, wines, and spirits like chacha. Please note, transportation and personal purchases are not included.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if your plans change.

Final Thoughts

The Taste Tbilisi tour offers a genuine, flavorful window into Georgian culture, with a knowledgeable guide leading the way through historic streets and local eateries. The variety of tastings—from hearty dishes to unique wines and spirits—ensures you leave with both a full belly and a richer understanding of the city’s culinary identity.

It’s especially suited for curious travelers who want to combine sightseeing with authentic food experiences, and who enjoy engaging guides sharing stories and tips. If you’re after a relaxed, friendly way to explore Tbilisi’s flavors and neighborhoods, this tour hits the mark.

While it’s not a tour for strictly dietary restrictions, the flexible options and intimate atmosphere make it a memorable part of many visitors’ Georgian adventures. Just bring your appetite—and a sense of curiosity—and you’ll have a deliciously good time.

You can check availability for your dates here: