Culinary Guide for Expats in Georgia

Published on April 25, 2026 and written by Cyril Jarnias

Georgia, a country located at the crossroads of Europe and Asia, offers a unique and fascinating culinary experience for expatriates. With its millennia-old traditions and diverse influences, Georgian cuisine is a true treasure to discover. This guide will take you on a flavorful journey through the tastes, iconic dishes, and culinary customs of this captivating country.

The Foundations of Georgian Cuisine

Georgian cuisine is renowned for its richness, diversity, and authenticity. It draws its roots from a millennia-old history and reflects the influences of the civilizations that have passed through the country over the centuries.

Fresh and Local Ingredients

One of the pillars of Georgian gastronomy is the use of fresh, seasonal ingredients. Local markets are brimming with produce grown in the country’s fertile regions. Vegetables, aromatic herbs, and fruits play a central role in preparing traditional dishes.

Generous and Social Cuisine

Georgian cuisine is synonymous with sharing and conviviality. Meals are often gatherings where family and friends come together around tables laden with numerous dishes. This tradition of sharing is reflected in the presentation of food, often served in large dishes placed in the center of the table.

The Importance of Spices and Herbs

Spices and aromatic herbs are ubiquitous in Georgian cuisine. The spice blend khmeli suneli, made from fenugreek, coriander, dill, and other dried herbs, is emblematic of this cuisine. Fresh herbs like cilantro, dill, and parsley are also widely used to flavor dishes.

Iconic Dishes to Discover

Georgia is full of unique culinary specialties that every expatriate must try. Here are some of the most iconic dishes of the country:

Khachapuri

A true national institution, khachapuri is a cheese bread that comes in different forms depending on the region. The most famous version, Adjarian khachapuri, is a boat-shaped bread filled with melted cheese, topped with a raw egg and butter. This hearty dish is often shared and is a staple of Georgian gastronomy.

Khinkali

These Georgian dumplings, shaped like purses, are filled with spiced minced meat (beef and pork) or cheese for the vegetarian version. The technique for eating them is an art: you grab them by their dough “hat,” bite gently on the side to sip the juice, then enjoy the rest. Khinkali are often served by the dozen and are the epitome of a social dish.

Mtsvadi

This dish of marinated meat skewers (usually pork or lamb) grilled over vine charcoal is especially popular during outdoor meals. The tender, flavorful meat is often accompanied by grilled vegetables and tkemali sauce, a preparation made from green plums.

Lobio

This red bean stew, served hot or cold, is a very popular vegetarian dish in Georgia. Seasoned with onions, garlic, cilantro, and spices, it is often accompanied by mchadi flatbread and pickles.

Must-Visit Markets and Restaurants

To truly immerse themselves in Georgian culinary culture, expatriates should explore local markets and traditional restaurants. Here are some must-see spots:

Traditional Markets

• Dezerter Bazaar in Tbilisi: This lively market is one of the largest and oldest in the capital. You’ll find an impressive variety of fresh produce, spices, and local specialties.
• Kutaisi Central Market: In the country’s second city, this market offers an authentic glimpse into daily Georgian life and its regional products.
• Batumi Market: In this coastal city, the market is full of fresh seafood and specialties from the Adjara region.

Iconic Restaurants

• Salobie Bia in Tbilisi: This restaurant is famous for its lobio and khinkali, served in a traditional atmosphere.
• Barbarestan in Tbilisi: This upscale restaurant offers refined Georgian cuisine, based on a 19th-century cookbook.
• Cafe Leila in Batumi: This charming vegetarian cafe offers light and flavorful Georgian cuisine in a picturesque setting.

Unique Culinary Experiences

For a total immersion in Georgian gastronomy, expatriates can take part in cooking classes, wine tastings, or guided tours of the vineyards in the Kakheti region, the cradle of Georgian viticulture.

Table Etiquette and Culinary Customs

Understanding table etiquette and culinary customs is essential for fully integrating into Georgian culture. Here are some important points to remember:

The Supra: A Traditional Feast

The supra is a traditional Georgian feast, often organized to celebrate special occasions. It is led by a tamada, or toastmaster, who proposes toasts throughout the meal. Guests are expected to listen attentively and drink to each toast.

Georgian Hospitality

Georgians are known for their warm hospitality. It is common to be invited to share a meal at someone’s home. In this case, it is polite to bring a small gift, such as flowers or a dessert.

Sharing Dishes

Most Georgian meals are served to be shared. It is therefore normal to help yourself directly from the common dishes placed in the center of the table.

The Importance of Wine

Wine holds a central place in Georgian culture. It is often served in traditional horns or bowls. It is polite to clink glasses with your table neighbors before drinking.

Finding International Ingredients

Although Georgian cuisine is delicious, expatriates may sometimes want to cook dishes from their home country. Here are some tips for finding international ingredients in Georgia:

International Supermarkets

In major cities like Tbilisi, you can find supermarkets that offer a selection of international ingredients. Goodwill and Carrefour are two chains that provide a good range of imported products.

Specialty Stores

Some stores specialize in products from a specific region. For example, you can find Asian grocery stores or European product shops in certain neighborhoods of Tbilisi.

Online Orders

Several online sales sites offer delivery of international products to Georgia. This is a convenient option for finding specific ingredients not available locally.

Expat Markets

In some cities, expat markets are organized regularly. This is an opportunity to find products from different countries and meet other expatriates.

Conclusion: An Unforgettable Culinary Adventure

Discovering Georgian gastronomy is an exciting adventure for any expatriate. From the unique flavors of khachapuri to the traditions of the supra, through exploring local markets, Georgian cuisine offers a rich and varied cultural experience.

By immersing themselves in this culinary culture, expatriates can not only savor delicious dishes but also better understand the history and traditions of their host country. Georgian cuisine, with its unique blend of influences and characteristic generosity, is a true bridge between cultures.

Whether you are an adventurous gourmet or simply curious to discover new flavors, Georgia has wonderful culinary surprises in store for you. Don’t hesitate to step out of your comfort zone, try new dishes, and share meals with locals. It is often around a well-stocked table that the strongest bonds and most lasting memories are created.