Taste Tbilisi – a delicious Food & Drink walk of Tbilisi

Exploring Tbilisi’s culinary scene through a guided walking tour offers a fantastic way to experience the city beyond its famous sights. This tour, organized by Real Georgia Tours, combines authentic food tastings, local wines, and insightful commentary—all in a manageable 3.5-hour package.

What stands out most are the knowledgeable guides, the chance to sample at least 10 different foods and drinks, and the chance to explore the eclectic Sololaki district with its charming old streets and Art Nouveau architecture. Plus, the inclusion of Georgian wines made with ancient Qvevri techniques adds a special touch.

A potential downside? The tour includes alcohol and meat dishes by default, which might not suit all dietary needs. However, vegetarian, vegan, and alcohol-free options are available if you let the organizers know in advance.

This experience is perfect for food lovers, culture seekers, and anyone wanting a genuine taste of Tbilisi’s vibrant culinary heritage. Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or in a small group, the tour promises a memorable, delicious introduction to Georgia.

Good To Know

• Authentic Experience: Walk through historic Tbilisi neighborhoods and taste local dishes and drinks you might not find on your own.
• Expert Guides: Guides like Luka, Giorgi, and Levan offer in-depth stories about the city, its history, and culinary traditions.
• Diverse Tastings: Enjoy at least 10 different foods and drinks, including khinkali, local wines, chacha, and more.
• Flexible Options: Choose between private or small-group tours tailored to dietary restrictions or preferences.
• Cultural Insights: Learn about Tbilisi’s architecture, neighborhoods, and modern life while tasting its flavors.
• Great Value: Despite some included alcohol and dishes, the tour’s variety and local focus make it an excellent value.

You can check if your dates are available here:

What to Expect from the Tour

This Taste Tbilisi experience kicks off outside the familiar landmark of Dunkin Donuts at Freedom Square. From there, your guide—either Luka, Giorgi, or Levan—leads you into the heart of Tbilisi’s backstreets, where history, architecture, and lively local life collide.

The first stop is at a historic restaurant, where you’ll taste the iconic Khinkali dumplings—Georgian comfort food that’s as fun to eat as it is delicious. The guide shares stories about the dish’s significance and tips on how to enjoy it like a local. This initial introduction sets the tone for the rest of the tour: food, history, and authentic culture intertwined.

As you continue through the backstreets, expect to see magnificent Art Nouveau buildings in decay, giving the neighborhood its genuine Tbilisian vibe. Here, you’ll sample vegetarian starters like eggplant and stuffed peppers, along with flaky, savory cheese and bean pastries. The guide will share fascinating stories about the neighborhood’s past splendor and its current revival.

The drinking portion is just as vibrant as the eating. You’ll taste Georgian natural wines, made traditionally in Qvevri, which are clay vessels buried underground. These wines are unlike anything you’ve tried elsewhere—complex, earthy, and sometimes bubbly. To add a spirited kick, you’ll sample Chacha, Georgia’s fiery strong spirit, affectionately called “liquid happiness” in local circles.

Throughout the walk, you can ask questions and soak up insights about Georgian cuisine, culture, and modern life. The guide’s commentary makes every stop more meaningful, blending food with storytelling.

Highlights of the Experience

Iconic Georgian Food and Drinks

Starting with Khinkali, you’d be surprised how much fun it is to eat these juicy dumplings with your hands. The tour includes vegetarian starters suited for non-meat eaters, like eggplant and stuffed peppers, ensuring variety and accommodating dietary restrictions. The cheese and bean pastries add a flaky, savory touch that pairs beautifully with local wines.

Local and Authentic Locations

All stops are located in backstreets of the city’s former splendor, away from tourist traps. This means you’ll experience real local life and hidden gems, which many travelers wouldn’t find on their own. Reviews mention discovering places you cannot find browsing the internet, making this tour a true insider experience.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Wine and Spirit Tastings

Georgia’s wine tradition is one of the oldest in the world, with natural wines produced via Qvevri, an ancient technique. The guide explains the significance of this method while you sip on wines with unique flavors. The Chacha tasting often surprises visitors with its strong, lively character, adding a spirited note to your journey.

Historical and Cultural Context

Guides like Luka and Levan don’t just serve food—they tell stories. From the neighborhoods’ history to Georgia’s political climate, their stories deepen your appreciation of the food and the city. One reviewer noted Luka’s ability to “share history as well as food and drink,” making the tour both fun and educational.

The Practicalities

Duration and Group Size

At 3.5 hours, the tour strikes a good balance—long enough to enjoy diverse tastings without fatigue. It’s available as a private or small-group experience, fostering intimacy and personalized attention. Many reviews highlight how guides like Giorgi and Levan tailor the experience for dietary needs, making it flexible.

Cost and Value

While the tour is not explicitly priced here, the extensive tasting lineup and insider access suggest a good value for food and drink lovers. The inclusion of at least 10 foods and drinks, plus expert storytelling, offers genuine value, especially for those who want to get a real taste of Tbilisi’s culinary soul.

Meeting Point and End

Starting outside Dunkin Donuts at Freedom Square makes it easy for most travelers to find. The tour ends back at the same spot, simplifying logistics. Since transport to and from the start point isn’t included, plan to arrive a few minutes early.

Dietary Restrictions

The tour is primarily meat and alcohol-inclusive but is flexible for vegetarian, vegan, and alcohol-free options if you notify in advance. Halal or Kosher options are not available, so if these are essential, check with the provider beforehand.

Authentic Experiences According to Travelers

Multiple reviewers praise the knowledgeable guides, especially Luka, Giorgi, and Levan. One mentions how Luka “shared history as well as food and drink,” adding context that elevates the experience beyond just eating. Another review highlights how guides took them to places they would never find alone, emphasizing the tour’s value as a local insider connection.

Guests also love the variety of tastings, including excellent wine selections and delicious food, with many leaving stuffed and happy. The combination of great stories, beautiful neighborhoods, and authentic flavors is what makes this tour stand out.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience suits foodies eager to try authentic Georgian dishes and drinks. It’s perfect for solo travelers, couples, or small groups wanting a personalized, intimate look at the city’s flavors. If you’re curious about local wines or enjoy culinary storytelling, you’ll find this tour rewarding.

It’s also a good choice for travelers wanting an authentic, off-the-beaten-path experience that combines culture, history, and gastronomy. However, if dietary restrictions are strict or you prefer a more extensive wine focus, check with the provider beforehand.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for vegetarians or vegans?
Yes, vegetarian and vegan options are available if you notify the organizer in advance. The tour can be tailored to accommodate dietary restrictions.

Does the tour include alcohol?
Yes, the standard experience features Georgian wines and chacha. Alcohol-free options are possible if specified ahead of time.

Where does the tour start and end?
The tour begins outside Dunkin Donuts at Pushkin Street 1-3, near Freedom Square, and returns to the same meeting point.

How long is the tour?
The experience lasts approximately 3.5 hours, providing enough time for multiple tastings and stories without feeling rushed.

Can I join the tour with a private group?
Absolutely, the tour can be booked as a private experience, ideal for small groups seeking a personalized touch.

Are transportation arrangements provided?
No, transportation to the meeting point isn’t included, so plan to arrive a few minutes early.

What makes this tour different from self-guided food walks?
Guided by locals like Luka, Giorgi, or Levan, you gain access to places and stories you wouldn’t discover solo, along with expert tasting tips.

Final Thoughts

The Taste Tbilisi food and drink walk offers an engaging, flavorful introduction to Georgia’s capital. With knowledgeable guides, a well-curated lineup of dishes, and the chance to explore hidden neighborhoods, it’s a highly rewarding experience for anyone keen on authentic local flavors. The combination of delicious food, regional wines, and storytelling creates a well-rounded snapshot of Tbilisi’s culinary soul.

If you’re after a meaningful, tasty adventure that goes beyond the usual tourist spots, this tour is a smart choice. It suits those who want to learn about Georgian culture through its food, meet friendly locals, and leave with a deeper appreciation of this fascinating city.

Remember, booking in advance is recommended, especially if you have specific dietary needs or want a private experience. With flexible cancellation options, it’s a low-risk way to add a memorable culinary adventure to your Tbilisi trip.

You can check if your dates are available here: