Taste Tbilisi – a delicious Food & Drink walk of Tbilisi

Taste Tbilisi – a Delicious Food & Drink Walk of Tbilisi

Travelers exploring Tbilisi often rave about its distinctive blend of history, architecture, and warm hospitality. While wandering through the city’s streets is a delight, a guided food and drink tour like Taste Tbilisi offers a much richer experience. It’s a chance to taste the real Georgia, guided by locals who know where to find the best bites and sips that might otherwise stay hidden.

What makes this tour stand out? First, it promises to introduce you to at least 10 different foods and drinks, from savory dumplings to natural wines. Second, it’s a deep dive into the eclectic Sololaki district, an area brimming with Art Nouveau architecture and a lively local vibe. Lastly, the guides, some of whom are praised for their knowledge and storytelling, add an extra layer of authenticity and warmth.

One potential caveat? The duration is 3.5 hours, which might be a little long if you’re not used to walking and tasting in one go. Also, while the tour is generally praised for its value, it primarily includes food, drink, and the guiding service — any personal shopping or transportation costs aren’t included.

This tour is perfect for food lovers, wine enthusiasts, or curious travelers wanting to see more than just the sights — it’s about experiencing Tbilisi through its flavors and stories.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Authentic Experience: Taste traditional Georgian dishes and drinks in local settings.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable locals share insights, history, and fun stories.
• Stunning Neighborhoods: Explore the backstreets of the eclectic Sololaki district.
• Variety of Flavors: Sample at least 10 different foods and drinks including wines, spirits, and snacks.
• Flexible Options: Available as private or shared small-group tours.
• Value for Money: Well-rated, immersive, and offers a genuine taste of Georgian culture.

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

What to Expect from the Itinerary

Your journey begins outside Dunkin Donuts on Pushkin Street, right in the heart of Tbilisi’s bustling Freedom Square. This meeting point is convenient, situated in a lively part of town, making it easy to find even after a bit of sightseeing. The tour lasts approximately 3.5 hours, but don’t let that scare you — it’s a relaxed pace that balances walking, eating, and chatting.

The first stop is at one of the oldest restaurants in the city, where you’ll taste Georgia’s most iconic dish: Khinkali. These juicy, savory dumplings are a must-try and set the tone for the culinary adventure ahead. Your guide, who they say is both friendly and knowledgeable (like Luka, one of the praised guides), will share stories about Georgian cuisine’s history and cultural significance. Expect to learn why khinkali are eaten with hands and how they symbolize hospitality.

From there, the tour moves into the charming backstreets of Sololaki — a neighborhood once associated with grandeur, now filled with a mix of Art Nouveau architecture in varying states of preservation. It’s a visual feast, but even more so when paired with tastings. You’ll sample vegetarian starters like eggplant and stuffed peppers, flaky cheese and bean pastries, and fresh salads made from seasonal ingredients. These bites are simple but flavorful, giving insight into Georgia’s emphasis on fresh, local produce.

Exploring the Food Spots and Local Vibe

What sets this tour apart is the carefully curated selection of hidden gems. Many reviewers mention guides who know the backstreets and introduce you to places you wouldn’t find on your own. As you stroll through alleys and past faded facades, your guide shares stories about the neighborhood’s history and modern life, making the experience both delicious and educational.

You’ll also have the chance to taste spices, Churchkhela (the “candle” candy made with nuts and grape juice), and top-quality Georgian wines produced through the ancient Qvevri method. Georgia is believed to be one of the oldest wine-producing regions, and the natural wines you’ll try are quite distinctive — often cloudy, with complex flavors. Reviewers frequently highlight the wine tasting as a standout feature, with some mentioning that they sampled up to 10 varieties.

Adding to the fun is the inclusion of Chacha, Georgia’s powerful spirit, which some call “liquid happiness.” It’s traditionally served straight, and the guides often offer educational snippets about its production and cultural role. As one reviewer pointed out, the guide also provides tips on how to “eat like a local,” which is especially helpful if you’re new to Georgian cuisine.

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The Group Size and Atmosphere

The tour is designed as a small-group experience, often private, which gives it a personal touch. Several guests appreciated the flexibility and individual attention, noting guides like Levan and Giorgi as friendly, fun, and full of stories. The smaller the group, the more you can ask questions and linger at your favorite spots.

While the reviews are glowing, it’s worth noting that dietary restrictions are accommodated. Vegetarians and those avoiding alcohol found the tour adaptable, with reviewers mentioning that vegetarian options like eggplant or stuffed peppers were provided. However, vegan, Halal, or Kosher options aren’t explicitly mentioned, so it’s worth checking in advance if you have specific needs.

The Value and Overall Experience

Many visitors feel this 3.5-hour experience is excellent value, especially given the quality of the food, drinks, and insights offered. While personal purchases and transportation aren’t included, the tour’s price covers a wide sampling of authentic Georgian cuisine and drinks that you’d likely spend more time and money trying to find independently.

Reviewers frequently mention guides’ storytelling skills and their ability to take you off the beaten path, making it more than just a “food tour”—it feels like exploring with a knowledgeable local friend. The tour’s standing at a perfect 5-star rating from 29 reviews underlines its broad appeal and consistency.

Who Is This Tour Perfect For?

If you’re a food lover eager to try authentic local dishes, this is a fantastic way to learn about Georgian cuisine. Wine enthusiasts will especially appreciate the selection of natural wines, and those interested in cultural stories will enjoy the historical insights shared along the way.

It’s also ideal for travelers who prefer a small, private group or personalized experience — the guides are praised for their friendliness and knowledge. Since dietary restrictions are accommodated, vegetarians and those seeking a more relaxed pace will find this tour very accessible.

However, if you’re looking for a quick snack or don’t enjoy walking and tasting for hours, you might find the 3.5-hour duration a bit long. Plus, the focus is primarily on food and drink, so if shopping or sightseeing is your main goal, consider supplementing this experience with other activities.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included?
No, the tour starts outside Dunkin Donuts on Pushkin Street. You’re responsible for getting there, but the meeting point is centrally located for easy access.

Can I join as a solo traveler?
Yes, the tour can be booked as a private experience, making it perfect for solo travelers who want a personalized introduction to Georgian cuisine.

Are vegetarian or vegan options available?
Vegetarian options are definitely available and can be accommodated. Vegan options are possible but may limit the number of dishes you can taste. Always inform the provider of dietary restrictions when booking.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 3.5 hours, which includes walking, tasting, and learning. It’s a relaxed pace, but be prepared for a fair amount of walking.

Is alcohol included?
Yes, the tour features Georgian wines produced through the ancient Qvevri technique and Chacha, a strong local spirit. Non-alcoholic versions can be arranged if needed.

What makes this tour stand out?
The combination of authentic food, unique local wines, engaging guides, and exploring the backstreets of Sololaki makes this a truly immersive experience.

Wrapping It Up

Taste Tbilisi offers a compelling way to dive into Georgian culture through its cuisine and spirits — a memorable experience for anyone eager to go beyond sightseeing and taste what makes this city so special. The guides’ local knowledge, the variety of foods and drinks, and the charming neighborhoods make this tour well worth considering.

It’s especially suited for those who love culinary adventures, want a glimpse into local life, or simply enjoy engaging storytelling along with great food. With rave reviews highlighting the charm of guides like Luka and Giorgi, it’s clear this experience consistently delivers a warm, authentic taste of Tbilisi.

If you’re after a fun, flavorful, and insightful introduction to Georgia’s culinary scene, this tour hits all the right notes. Just bring your appetite and curiosity — you won’t leave hungry or uninformed.

You can check availability for your dates here: