Tbilisi: Georgian Cooking Class with Khinkali and Khachapuri

If you’re craving an authentic taste of Georgia, this cooking class in Tbilisi offers a perfect blend of culinary hands-on experience, cultural insights, and local hospitality. Guided by a renowned chef from the popular KITCH restaurant, you’ll learn to craft two of Georgia’s most beloved dishes—khinkali and khachapuri—while enjoying a taste of Georgian wines and cheeses.

What makes this experience special? We love the expert guidance from experienced chefs, the opportunity to make and taste traditional dishes yourself, and the chance to soak in the cozy, atmospheric courtyard setting. One thing to keep in mind is that it’s a group class, so if you’re after a private, more personalized experience, this might not be the best fit.

This tour appeals most to foodies, culture seekers, and those who appreciate good wine and lively, communal experiences. Whether you’re a beginner or already familiar with Georgian cuisine, you’ll find plenty to enjoy here.

Good To Know

• Hands-on experience: You’ll actively prepare traditional Georgian dishes under expert guidance.
• Authentic flavors: Sample local cheeses, wines, and fresh produce, gaining insight into Georgia’s culinary traditions.
• Atmospheric setting: Enjoy the cozy courtyard of KITCH restaurant, which offers a warm, welcoming environment.
• Expert guides: The chef and staff are praised for their friendliness, knowledge, and engaging storytelling.
• Good value: The experience combines instruction, tastings, and a chance to enjoy your own creations at a reasonable price.
• Inclusive and accessible: The class is wheelchair accessible and offered in both English and Russian.

You can check if your dates are available here:

The Experience in Detail

Location and Atmosphere

The class takes place at KITCH, a charming restaurant just a short walk from Orbeliani Square. Guests often mention the lovely, spacious courtyard with large windows and a stylish interior that instantly sets a friendly, relaxed tone. As Vladimir notes, it’s a “lovely little restaurant in a side street,” which gives it a hidden gem feel. The setting is ideal for learning and socializing, with enough room for everyone to comfortably participate.

The Itinerary

The experience lasts roughly 2.5 hours, during which you’ll be guided by a knowledgeable instructor, often named Seva or Grisha in reviews, who explains each step with clarity and a friendly attitude. The class is designed to be practical—no prior cooking skills are necessary—making it accessible for beginners but still engaging enough for seasoned food lovers.

The session kicks off with a warm welcome, often with a glass of Georgian wine and a cheese platter that immediately introduces you to local flavors. You’ll then move onto the hands-on part: making the dough for khachapuri and shaping the khinkali, which are juicy, folded dumplings filled with meat or vegetarian options like mushrooms. The chef shares tips on perfecting the folding technique—an important skill for authentic khinkali—and explains regional differences and culinary secrets.

What You’ll Cook

You’ll actively participate in preparing:

• Khinkali: These are Georgian dumplings filled with seasoned meat, herbs, and spices. The challenge—and fun—is mastering the pleating technique to seal in the flavorful juices.
• Imeretian Khachapuri: A cheese-filled bread from the Imereti region, tender and aromatic, often topped with a raw egg yolk just before serving for that extra special touch.

Participants often mention how much dough they made and shaped themselves, which adds a real sense of achievement. As one reviewer noted, “we made the dough for khachapuri and shaped the khinkali ourselves,” making the experience both educational and satisfying.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Tasting and Additional Offerings

Throughout the class, you’ll sample local cheeses—including a cheese platter that reviewers rave about—and enjoy salads made with ripe Georgian tomatoes and cucumbers drizzled with Kakheti aromatic oil. The inclusion of local wines is a highlight, with many guests mentioning the quality and friendliness of the wine tasting. One guest pointed out that the wine is served freely during the session, but it’s worth noting that the initial glass is complimentary, and additional servings may be charged.

Group Size and Social Atmosphere

The reviews consistently praise the small-group setting, which allows for a more personal experience. Mado, a guide mentioned in reviews, ensures everyone gets attention and individual advice. This creates an inviting, friendly environment where you can chat easily with fellow travelers and the chef.

Practical Details

• Meeting point: At KITCH restaurant, near Orbeliani Square.
• Duration: About 2.5 hours.
• Language: Conducted in English and Russian.
• Wheelchair accessible: Yes.
• Cancellation: Free if canceled 24 hours in advance.
• Price: Good value when you consider the included instruction, multiple dishes, tastings, and the chance to enjoy your own food afterward.

What Reviewers Say

Many guests mention how well-organized and engaging the class is. Vladimir appreciated the “plenty of tips and a fun atmosphere,” while Yu found it “an amazing experience, even with an infant,” showing the class’s flexibility. Adam loved the “very good explanation of the cooking process,” and others like Kazimierz appreciated the “practical work and good service.”

Feedback highlights include the professional yet friendly approach of chefs like Seva and Grisha, who are praised for their patience and storytelling. Several mention how much food they prepared—sometimes enough for multiple meals—and how satisfying it was to eat the fruits of their labor.

Value for Money

Considering the instruction, tastings, wine, cheese, and the opportunity to cook and eat traditional dishes, many reviewers agree that this class offers excellent value. It’s a fun, sociable way to spend an afternoon and gain authentic skills you can replicate at home.

Who Is This Tour Best Suited For?

This Georgian cooking class is ideal for food lovers eager to learn traditional recipes firsthand. It suits beginners as well as those with some cooking experience, as the instructions are clear and practical. The atmosphere is lively and friendly, perfect for solo travelers, couples, or small groups wanting a social experience. If you enjoy tasting local wines and cheeses, this class combines those pleasures seamlessly.

However, if you’re looking for a private, ultra-exclusive experience or a more in-depth culinary tour of Georgia’s regional cuisines, you might find this group class a bit too casual or limited in scope.

Final Thoughts

This 2.5-hour Georgian cooking class offers a genuine taste of Tbilisi’s culinary culture, blending skill-building, sampling, and social fun in a charming setting. The focus on making authentic khinkali and khachapuri means you’ll walk away with not just recipes but a real understanding of Georgian food traditions. The inclusion of local cheeses and wines elevates the experience, providing a well-rounded introduction to Georgia’s gastronomy.

The guides and staff consistently receive praise for their warmth, expertise, and storytelling, making this more than just a cooking lesson—it’s a culture. The price point is reasonable given the quality of instruction and tastings, making this a highly recommendable activity for anyone curious about Georgian cuisine or wanting to enjoy a fun, interactive culinary experience in Tbilisi.

FAQ

Is the class suitable for beginners?
Yes. The instructions are straightforward, and no prior cooking experience is needed. The class is designed to be accessible and fun for all skill levels.

How long does the class last?
Approximately 2.5 hours, providing enough time to cook, taste, and socialize without feeling rushed.

Do I get to take my food home?
While the review mentions plenty of food to enjoy during the class, some photos suggest you can also take leftovers or extra dishes home, though this isn’t explicitly confirmed.

Is the wine included?
Yes, a glass of Georgian homemade wine is included in the experience, and wine is served throughout the class. Additional wine may be available for purchase.

Can I participate if I have dietary restrictions?
The class offers vegetarian options like mushroom khinkali, and the chef is flexible. It’s best to specify any dietary needs when booking.

Where is the meeting point?
At restaurant KITCH, close to Orbeliani Square, in a cozy courtyard setting.

Is the venue wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the class is wheelchair accessible, making it inclusive for a wider range of guests.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What languages are the instructions in?
The class is conducted in both English and Russian, catering to a diverse group of travelers.

Is this activity suitable for children or infants?
Yes, many reviews mention traveling with infants or small children, and the friendly environment accommodates family participation.

This Georgian cooking class in Tbilisi combines practical skills, cultural insights, and a lively atmosphere, making it a top choice for anyone eager to taste and learn about Georgia’s culinary treasures.

You can check if your dates are available here: