Join a Local for a Market Tour, Cooking Class and Meal in Her Tbilisi Home

Explore the vibrant heart of Tbilisi with a local host, Tina. She’ll guide you through the bustling Dezerter Bazaar, introducing the fresh produce and ingredients that make Georgian cuisine so distinctive. Then, step into Tina’s cozy home for a hands-on cooking class, where you’ll craft traditional dishes like the iconic khachapuri. As you prepare the meal together, you’ll gain valuable insights into the rich culinary traditions of this captivating city. What happens next might just surprise you.

Key Points

• Explore the vibrant Dezerter Bazaar with your local host Tina to discover fresh Georgian produce, meats, and dairy.
• Learn to prepare 2-3 traditional Georgian dishes during a private cooking class in Tina’s cozy home kitchen.
• Savor a homemade Georgian meal, including local alcoholic beverages, after the hands-on cooking experience.
• Enjoy a personalized experience with the opportunity to choose dishes based on your preferences.
• Receive hotel pickup and drop-off, along with all taxes, fees, and gratuities for a hassle-free experience.

Overview of the Experience

The experience, led by host Tina (previously Teo), takes place in Tbilisi, Georgia. It encompasses a private market tour, cooking class, and meal.

With 15 reviews and a 93% traveler recommendation, the 4.8-rated experience offers an authentic taste of Georgian cuisine. Guests visit a local food market, then learn to prepare 2-3 traditional dishes in Tina’s home.

The class includes a homecooked meal, local alcohol, and hotel pickup/drop-off. Meeting points, accessibility, and confirmation details are provided.

Guest feedback highlights Tina’s hospitality, the personalized experience, and the opportunity to choose dishes.

Market Tour and Cooking Class Details

As part of the experience, guests visit a local food market to explore the fresh produce, meats, and dairy available.

They then head to the host’s home for a private cooking class, where they prepare 2-3 typical Georgian dishes. Meal options include lunch or dinner classes.

The experience includes a homecooked meal, local alcohol (1-2 glasses), and non-alcoholic beverages. Hotel pickup and drop-off, as well as all taxes, fees, and gratuities, are also provided.

Guests can choose from a sample menu featuring starters like khachapuri and khinkali, a main dish of chakhokhbili, and traditional Georgian desserts.

Sample Menu

A sample menu for the cooking class features starters like the savory cheese-filled bread known as khachapuri and the traditional Georgian dumplings called khinkali.

The main dish is chakhokhbili, a stewed chicken dish with herbs. For dessert, guests can enjoy traditional Georgian sweets or dried fruits.

The menu provides a delicious introduction to the rich flavors and variety of Georgian cuisine.

Tina tailors the dishes based on guest preferences, ensuring a personalized and authentic culinary experience in the comfort of her own home.

Preparing the Meal

After the market tour, Tina leads guests to her cozy home and invites them to don aprons and join her in the kitchen.

They gather around Tina’s prep station, eager to learn the secrets of authentic Georgian cuisine. With Tina’s guidance, they chop, slice, and sauté a variety of fresh ingredients.

The aroma of simmering spices and sizzling meats fills the air as they work together to prepare the day’s dishes. Tina shares tips and stories, fostering an interactive and immersive cooking experience.

Soon, the table is set, and the group sits down to savor the homemade delicacies they’ve created.

Enjoying the Homecooked Feast

With the meal now prepared, guests eagerly gather around Tina’s table to enjoy the fruits of their labor. Plates brimming with mouthwatering Georgian specialties, the aroma wafting through the air.

Tina pours local wine as everyone digs in, savoring the flavors they learned to create. Conversation flows, guests sharing their impressions and experiences.

Laughter fills the cozy home as Tina shares stories about the dishes and her family traditions. The meal is a true taste of Georgian hospitality, a chance to connect over a delicious homemade feast.

As plates empty, bellies are full, and memories are made.

Meeting Tina and Her Family

As guests arrive at Tina’s humble home, they’re greeted warmly by the host and her family.

Tina’s husband and young children welcome visitors, eager to meet new people and share their Georgian hospitality.

Guests are ushered inside the cozy apartment, catching glimpses of family photos and traditional decor.

Tina introduces everyone and offers refreshments, setting a friendly, relaxed tone.

She explains the day’s menu and cooking plan, encouraging guests to ask questions and participate.

The intimate setting allows visitors to connect with Tina and her family, seeing the heart of Georgian culture.

Logistics and Meeting Points

The market tour and cooking class begins at the Dezerter Bazaar, located at 5 Abastumani Street in Tbilisi.

From there, you’ll travel with Tina to her home near the Tbilisi Mall, where the cooking class will take place.

The experience is stroller-accessible, but not wheelchair-friendly.

Upon booking, you’ll receive confirmation and must advise Tina of any dietary restrictions in advance.

After the cooking and meal, Tina will provide transportation back to your starting point.

The entire experience is designed to be a warm, intimate, and authentic introduction to Georgian cuisine and culture.

Guest Experiences and Reviews

Guests describe the experience as unique, heartwarming, and authentic. Many highlight Tina’s hospitality, personalized attention, and the opportunity to choose dishes. Positive remarks on the atmosphere, interaction with Tina’s family, and learning about Georgian cuisine. Common themes include a sense of family, delicious food, and a memorable cooking experience.

Rating	Reviewer	Review Highlights
5 stars	Sarah	"Tina made us feel like family. The food was incredible and the market tour was so interesting."
4 stars	Michael	"Great class with hands-on cooking. Tina is very knowledgeable about Georgian cuisine."
5 stars	Olivia	"Absolutely loved this experience. Learned so much and left with full bellies and happy hearts."

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Average Duration of the Market Tour and Cooking Class?

The experience typically lasts around 3-4 hours, with the market tour and cooking class each taking about 1-2 hours. The exact duration may vary depending on the pace and interests of the participants.

Are There Any Vegetarian or Vegan Menu Options Available?

Yes, Tina offers vegetarian and vegan menu options for her cooking class. Guests can choose dishes that suit their dietary preferences, ensuring an inclusive and accommodating experience tailored to their needs.

Is the Host Fluent in English or Other Languages?

The host, Tina, is fluent in English and can communicate effectively with guests. She is able to provide a personalized and enjoyable experience, ensuring guests can fully participate in the market tour, cooking class, and meal.

Can the Class Accommodate Food Allergies or Dietary Restrictions?

Yes, the class can accommodate food allergies and dietary restrictions. Guests should advise their needs in advance, and Tina will work to provide suitable menu options as part of the private cooking experience.

Is There a Minimum or Maximum Group Size for the Experience?

The experience can accommodate a range of group sizes, with no minimum or maximum. Tina tailors the class to each group, ensuring a personalized and intimate setting for all participants.

The Sum Up

Discover authentic Georgian cuisine through a hands-on cooking class led by a local host in Tbilisi. Explore a vibrant market, prepare traditional dishes, and enjoy a delightful homemade meal in a warm, inviting atmosphere. This immersive experience offers a unique opportunity to connect with the local culture and cuisine.