Must-Try Foods In Telavi (Georgia) For Tourists 2026 - 2027

Food History of Telavi, Georgia

The city of Telavi, located in the heart of Georgia's wine region, Kakheti, has a rich culinary tradition closely tied to its history of winemaking and agrarian culture. Georgian cuisine reflects the influences of its neighbors and invaders over the centuries, drawing from Middle Eastern, Western Asian, and Eastern European flavors. Food in Telavi is often prepared with a variety of herbs and spices, and meals are seen as an expression of hospitality. Bread, cheese, a plethora of vegetarian options, and dishes focusing on locally sourced produce are celebrated. Feasting and toasting with wine, or "supra," is a key component of the gastronomic experience in Telavi.

Must-try Top 10 Food Dishes in Telavi, Georgia

1. Khachapuri (Vegetarian) - A must-try cheese-filled bread that comes in various shapes and sizes depending on the region.
2. Lobio (Vegetarian) - A traditional bean stew often accompanied by pickles and cornbread, known as mchadi.
3. Badrijani Nigvzit (Vegetarian) - Eggplant slices stuffed with a spiced walnut paste and topped with pomegranate seeds.
4. Khinkali (Non-Vegetarian) - Georgian dumplings typically filled with spiced meat, but vegetarian versions are also available.
5. Jonjoli (Vegetarian) - Pickled flower buds often served as a side dish, similar to capers in taste.
6. Mtsvadi (Non-Vegetarian) - Georgian style skewered and grilled meat, simply seasoned with salt and pepper.
7. Pkhali (Vegetarian) - A spinach and walnut spread that can also be made with other vegetables such as beetroot or beans.
8. Chakapuli (Non-Vegetarian) - A sour stew made with lamb, plums, tarragon, and white wine.
9. Churchkhela (Vegetarian) - A traditional Georgian candy made by dipping strings of nuts in thickened grape juice, then drying them.
10. Tklapi (Vegetarian) - Pureed fruit roll-ups that come in tart or sweet flavors, often enjoyed as a snack.

Top Famous Restaurants in Telavi, Georgia

1. Shemoikhede Genatsvale
   Address: Cholokashvili St, Telavi, Georgia
   Famous for: Kakhetian Mtsvadi (Non-Veg) and a variety of traditional Georgian salads and cheeses.
2. Bravo Restaurant & Bar
   Address: 8 Erekle II St., Telavi, Georgia
   Famous for: Ajarian Khachapuri (Vegetarian) where the dough is formed into a boat shape, filled with cheese, and topped with an egg.
3. Kakhetian Traditional Winemaking's Restaurant
   Address: 1 Vazha-Pshavela Ave, Telavi, Georgia
   Famous for: Wine pairings with Churchkhela (Vegetarian) and various regional cheese assortments.
4. Old Telavi Restaurant
   Address: 2 Aghmashenebeli Ave, Telavi, Georgia
   Famous for: Local cuisine such as Badrijani Nigvzit (Vegetarian) and Khinkali (Non-Veg or Veg).
5. Alazani Valley Restaurant
   Address: Tamar King St., Telavi, Georgia
   Famous for: Offering breathtaking views along with a mix of traditional dishes like Lobio (Veetarian) and Chakapuli (Non-Veg).