Cafe & Restaurants in Kutaisi

Gastronomy is one of the most compelling reasons to visit Kutaisi. In the heart of Imereti, traditional Georgian feasts await—lavish tables, heartfelt toasts, flowing wine, and the kind of warmth that lingers long after the last bite. Whether you’re on a guided culinary tour, welcomed into a local home, or dining at a neighborhood restaurant, you’re in for a true celebration of flavor. Dive into the treasures of Georgian cuisine—kharcho, khinkali, lobio, mchadi, pkhali, khachapuri, and many more. And if it’s your first time in Kutaisi, allow us to introduce you to the essentials of Georgian cooking.

Let’s start with khinkali—steaming dumplings shaped like little pyramids, most often filled with spiced meat or cheese, though vegetarian versions are common. A vital rule: khinkali should be eaten with your hands. Hold them by the thick top, take a bite, and sip the flavorful broth inside.

Khachapuri, one of Georgia’s most iconic dishes, is a cheesy pie beloved throughout the country. The Imeretian version—imeruli khachapuri—is the most traditional in Kutaisi, made with the local Imeretian cheese and best enjoyed hot, fresh from the oven.

Another celebrated delicacy is pkhali, which many Imeretian cooks claim was invented in the Kutaisi region. These vibrant vegetable and walnut pâtés, made from spinach, beet greens, or other herbs, are spiced and shaped into colorful rounds that are as beautiful as they are tasty.

Mchadi, cornmeal flatbreads, are perfect companions to cheese or dishes like chicken in creamy bazhe walnut sauce or the tangy tkemali plum sauce. Chikhirtma is a comforting chicken soup enriched with eggs and herbs. Spotting the word lobio on a menu means you’re about to enjoy a bean-based treat—perhaps lobiani (bean-filled bread), a rich stew, or a warm bean salad.

To fully immerse yourself in the scents and flavors of Georgia, visit the Green Bazaar, a beloved market in Old Kutaisi. You’ll recognize it by the striking “Colchis” mosaic and its lively crowd. The atmosphere is cheerful, friendly, and clean. This is the perfect place to stock up on local cheese, sweets, spices, nuts, dried fruits, and homemade wine. Don’t hesitate to strike up a conversation with the vendors—they’ll likely offer you a free sample of their finest products.

If you’re seeking the city’s best khinkali, culinary aficionados recommend El Depo—a humble eatery with simple decor but an exceptional kitchen. Meals are hearty, authentic, and budget-friendly.

For a more immersive experience, head to Toma’s Wine Cellar. Here, warm hospitality reigns supreme. Expect to be greeted with a smile, treated to a feast of Imeretian flavors, served excellent wine, and invited to learn about local customs. Visitors often describe this place as unmissable.

The restaurant Tiflisi, nestled in Old Kutaisi, earns praise for its generous spirit—both in portion size and atmosphere. The cozy interior, welcoming service, and satisfying meals make it an ideal spot to unwind after a long day of sightseeing.

Loved by locals and tourists alike, Palaty bar-restaurant is ideally located in the city center and always bustling. With friendly staff, live music in the evenings, and an impressive menu at reasonable prices, it offers a full sensory experience. Craving something more European? Visit Argo Café for international dishes, though they serve excellent khinkali and khachapuri as well.

Tetri Kvebi is a gem with postcard-perfect views. Located by the White Bridge, overlooking the Rioni River and the historic mansions on its steep banks, this is the place to slow down. Sip a cup of coffee, savor a stylish dessert, and watch the city go by.

Sweet tooth? Locals call Tortiko the go-to spot for the best desserts in Kutaisi. Their treats are takeaway only, but that just means you can enjoy a pastry picnic in one of the city’s leafy parks when the weather’s fine.

No Georgian culinary adventure would be complete without mentioning the country’s legendary wines. Georgia is often hailed as the birthplace of winemaking, with an 8,000-year-old tradition that modern vintners honor with pride. Sample world-renowned varieties like Kindzmarauli, Saperavi, and Tsinandali, and you’ll discover that even boutique labels from small family-run wineries hold their own against the giants of the industry.

A culinary tour of Imereti is a must for any food lover. Taste rare wines, farm-fresh cheeses, handcrafted snacks, and sun-ripened fruits plucked straight from the tree.