Kutaisi’s Central Market, more fondly known as the Green Bazaar, stands as one of Georgia’s largest covered food markets. Sprawled across almost an entire city block, it is nestled right in the heart of the city—between Paliashvili and Lermontov Streets—on the right bank of the Rioni River in the historical quarter. Housed in a quintessential Soviet-era structure, the bazaar echoes the architectural style that once defined urban commerce across the USSR.
Stepping into the Green Bazaar feels like crossing a threshold in time. The weighing scales, the countertops, the layout of the stalls, and even the old vehicles parked nearby seem to whisper stories from the Soviet past. For some, it’s a surprising anachronism; for others, it evokes a wave of nostalgia. Still, it would be unfair not to note the efforts of the market’s administration—they maintain a high standard of cleanliness, oversee order, and routinely invest in repairs and improvements.
A visit to the Green Bazaar is a must for anyone wanting to immerse themselves in the local spirit of Georgia. Here, the vivid character of the people shines through—welcoming, humorous, and eager to strike up a conversation. It’s a place where bargaining isn’t just accepted—it’s expected, and perhaps even part of the fun. You’ll find yourself captivated by the colors and scents of regional cheeses, aromatic spices, loose teas, piquant sauces, pickles, fruit rolls, vegetables, fruits, nuts, dried fruits, wine, and the fiery Georgian chacha. And of course, there’s churchkhela and pastila—local sweets that are as delicious as they are eye-catching.
One of the market’s main attractions is Imeretian sulguni, a brined Georgian cheese famed for its rich, tangy flavor. It’s beloved not only by visitors but by locals from all across Georgia, many of whom travel specifically to Kutaisi to purchase it. Some say the famous Adjarian khachapuri isn’t truly authentic unless made with Imeretian cheese.
Many local guides choose to begin their walking tours of Kutaisi at the Green Bazaar. It offers a perfect initiation into the soul of the city: try the cheese, sip freshly brewed coffee that perfumers the air, and pick up delectable edible souvenirs for loved ones back home. After all, cuisine is at the heart of cultural identity—and in Georgia, where food and hospitality are woven into the national DNA, the market becomes a living cultural exhibit.
In fact, many tourists end up visiting the bazaar twice during their stay: once to sample and explore, and a second time to stock up on their favorites before departure.
The market is open every day from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM—an especially convenient schedule. Here you’ll find fresh, affordable produce year-round: fruits, vegetables, herbs, nuts, meats, fish, dairy products, cheeses, spices, sauces, homemade wines, baked goods, and sweets. If you’re looking for the best selection, aim for a weekday morning, when the stalls are well-stocked and the crowds are manageable. However, seasoned bargain hunters recommend coming in the afternoon—while the variety might be more limited, prices tend to drop noticeably. During public holidays, prices can spike, but remember, this is the Caucasus—negotiating is part of the experience.
One of the bazaar’s greatest charms is that it wasn’t built for tourists—it exists first and foremost for the city’s residents. That authenticity allows visitors to experience Kutaisi life as it truly is, while also securing high-quality goods at local prices. Even if you leave empty-handed, it’s nearly impossible to walk away hungry. The warm exchanges and generous samples of local delicacies ensure your senses will be fully satisfied.
While the Green Bazaar’s building may not hold architectural value, its surroundings are quite striking. Near the northern entrance stands a whimsical structure known as the “House of the Georgian Gaudí”—a tribute to eccentric creativity. To the west, the market adjoins a building adorned with a vast, beautifully preserved Soviet-era bas-relief that stretches across an entire wall. Many visitors consider this neighboring facade an inseparable part of the market experience. They come to admire the artwork and, naturally, to stock up on all manner of Georgian treats.
In recent years, the Green Bazaar has transformed into something more than a shopping destination—it has become a local attraction in its own right, often topping travel guides and recommendations.