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

Zugdidi, Georgia - A Mosaic of Flavor and Tradition

Zugdidi, the heart of the Samegrelo region in western Georgia, offers a blend of rich culinary traditions that have evolved through centuries. The food history in Zugdidi is deeply intertwined with the diverse groups that have settled in the area, including Abkhazians, Mingrelians, and Svaneti highlanders. The abundant rivers and fertile plains contribute to a cuisine that is known for its spicy flavors and use of fresh ingredients, particularly herbs and walnuts.

Top 10 Must-Try Food Dishes in Zugdidi, Georgia

1. Elarji - A creamy and sticky dish made from cornmeal and sulguni cheese, this is a traditional staple. (Vegetarian)
2. Gebzhalia - Rolled strips of sulguni cheese mixed with mint and fresh cream. (Vegetarian)
3. Megrelian Khachapuri - A cheese-filled bread, with double the cheese both inside and on top. It's distinct to the Samegrelo region. (Vegetarian)
4. Lobio - A hearty bean soup typically served with cornbread (mchadi) and pickles. (Vegetarian)
5. Ajika - A spicy paste made of hot peppers, garlic, and various spices, Ajika is a traditional condiment often paired with many dishes. (Vegetarian)
6. Chvishtari - Cornbread mixed with cheese, this dish offers a crispy outside with a gooey cheesy inside. (Vegetarian)
7. Kharcho - A tangy, walnut-flavored soup usually made with chicken or sometimes with mushrooms as a non-meat variant. (Non-Veg/Vegetarian options)
8. Jonjoli - Pickled sprouts of the Bladdernut tree, often served as a side dish or with bread. (Vegetarian)
9. Nigvziani Badrijani - Eggplant rolls filled with a paste of walnuts, vinegar, and spices. (Vegetarian)
10. Pkhali - A mix of spinach and other greens combined with walnuts and seasoning, formed into balls. (Vegetarian)

Top Famous Restaurants in Zugdidi, Georgia

• Restaurant “Didi Jikhaishi”

  Address: 1 Vazha-Pshavela Ave, Zugdidi, Georgia

  Famous for: Megrelian Khachapuri and Gebzhalia. (Vegetarian)

• “Diaroni” Restaurant

  Address: 16a Tavisuplebis Moedani, Zugdidi, Georgia

  Famous for: Elarji and Ajika. (Vegetarian)

• “Melograno” Zugdidi

  Address: 44 Rustaveli Ave, Zugdidi, Georgia

  Famous for: Wide range of local cuisine with vegetarian options and a twist of modern cooking. Kharcho with chicken and Lobio. (Non-Veg/Vegetarian options)

• “Samikitno” Zugdidi

  Address: Tsminda Nino St, Zugdidi, Georgia

  Famous for: Traditional Samegrelo dishes including Chvishtari and Nigvziani Badrijani. (Vegetarian)

• “Kolkhida” Tavern

  Address: Tavisupleba St, Zugdidi, Georgia

  Famous for: Authentic Georgian flavors, best known for its array of appetizers and the delicious Pkhali. (Vegetarian)