9 Tastings - Original Tbilisi Food & Drink Walking Tour

This Tbilisi food tour offers a unique opportunity to dive deep into Georgia’s rich culinary traditions. Led by knowledgeable local guides, visitors can expect an immersive exploration of the historic Sololaki district, complete with a minimum of nine tastings of beloved Georgian dishes and drinks. From the iconic khinkali dumplings to the fiery chacha brandy, this tour caters to diverse dietary preferences, including vegetarian options. Whether you’re a foodie or simply curious about Georgian cuisine, this walking tour promises to delight the senses and broaden your understanding of the country’s vibrant gastronomic heritage. What sets this experience apart, however, is the chance to connect with the local culture on a deeper level.

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Key Points

A private, 9-tasting tour through the historic Sololaki district of Tbilisi, led by a knowledgeable local guide.
Tastings of traditional Georgian dishes and drinks, including khinkali, chacha, and natural wines, with vegetarian options available.
Intimate group size of up to 10 participants for a personalized experience in exploring Tbilisi’s vibrant food scene.
Tour duration of 3-4 hours, allowing ample time to savor the diverse flavors and rich history of Georgian cuisine.
Accessible meeting point near public transportation, with a clear and straightforward cancellation policy for customer flexibility.

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Overview of the Tour

The Tbilisi Food & Drink Walking Tour is a private, 9-tasting excursion through the historic Sololaki district, where visitors can enjoy the rich culinary heritage and vibrant culture of Georgia.

Led by a knowledgeable local guide, the tour takes participants on a journey of discovery, offering tastings of traditional Georgian dishes and drinks, such as khinkali, chacha, and natural wines.

Whether you’re a foodie or simply curious about the country’s gastronomic traditions, this experience promises to delight your senses and expand your understanding of Georgian cuisine.

With vegetarian options available and a comprehensive included menu, the tour caters to diverse dietary preferences, ensuring a truly memorable and authentic exploration of Tbilisi’s flavors.

Included Tastings and Dishes

Across the course of this immersive tour, participants can expect to indulge in a minimum of nine distinct tastings, encompassing a rich tapestry of traditional Georgian cuisine and libations.

From the beloved khinkali – plump, juicy dumplings – to the fiery and aromatic chacha, a pomace brandy, the tour delivers a mouthwatering exploration of local flavors.

Diners will also savor hearty bean dishes, refreshing chicken salads, and crisp natural wines that showcase Georgia’s celebrated viniculture.

Vegetarian options are readily available, ensuring an inclusive experience for all palates.

Whether seeking a cultural deep-dive or simply a delectable adventure, this tour promises to satisfy the senses and broaden one’s understanding of Tbilisi’s vibrant food scene.

Vegetarian and Dietary Options

While the tour’s menu celebrates the vibrant flavors of traditional Georgian cuisine, it also caters to those with vegetarian and other dietary preferences. Vegetarian options are readily available, ensuring an inclusive experience for all palates. The tour guides work closely with the eateries to accommodate requests, whether it’s omitting meat from certain dishes or providing plant-based alternatives. Here’s a look at some of the vegetarian offerings you can expect:

Dish	Description	Dietary Notes
Lobiani	Savory bean-filled bread	Vegetarian
Badrijani Nigvzit	Eggplant rolls with walnut filling	Vegetarian, Gluten-free
Pkhali	Vegetable pâté with pomegranate	Vegetarian, Gluten-free

With these options, the tour ensures there’s something delicious for every palate to enjoy.

Meeting Point and Pickup

Participants meet at the Dunkin’ Donuts located on Freedom Square, situated across from the Courtyard Marriott hotel.

The tour begins and ends at this convenient central location. From here, the group sets off to explore the historic Sololaki district of Tbilisi.

At the tour’s conclusion, guests return to the starting point, having savored a delightful array of Georgian cuisine and drinks.

The meeting spot’s proximity to public transportation makes it easily accessible for all. Whether arriving by metro, bus, or on foot, you will find the Dunkin’ Donuts a straightforward and hassle-free place to gather before embarking on their culinary adventure.

Tour Duration and Group Size

The tour typically lasts 3-4 hours, allowing ample time to savor the diverse flavors and rich history of Tbilisi’s culinary scene.

Group sizes are kept intimate, with a maximum of 10 participants to ensure a personalized experience and allow for easy navigation through the winding streets of the Sololaki district.

This walking tour provides a deep dive into Georgian cuisine, from the savory khinkali dumplings to the fiery chacha brandy.

Along the way, you’ll visit family-owned taverns, hole-in-the-wall eateries, and bustling markets, all while learning about the country’s fascinating history and culture from your knowledgeable local guide.

The pace is leisurely, allowing you to immerse yourself fully in the sights, sounds, and tastes of this captivating city.

Accessibility and Transportation

This walking tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, as the historic Sololaki district features narrow, cobblestone streets and uneven terrain. However, the meeting point at Dunkin’ Donuts on Freedom Square is near public transportation, making it easily accessible for those using mobility aids or strollers.

Infants must be carried or seated on laps during the tour.

While the tour may pose challenges for those with mobility issues, the experience offers a unique opportunity to take in Tbilisi’s rich cultural heritage:

Explore the charming, historic Sololaki neighborhood
Indulge in a diverse array of traditional Georgian cuisine and beverages
Gain insights into the city’s history and traditions from a local guide

Confirmation and Cancellation Policy

Upon booking, participants receive confirmation of their reservation. The cancellation policy allows for a full refund if the tour is canceled at least 24 hours before the scheduled start time.

This policy is clear and straightforward, giving customers the peace of mind that their investment is protected. The tour is a private experience, so customers can rest assured they’ll be the only ones participating.

Additional Information

Spanning approximately 3 hours, the Tbilisi Food & Drink Walking Tour offers participants a comprehensive exploration of the city’s distinct culinary heritage.

Guided by local experts, the tour takes visitors on an immersive journey through the historic Sololaki district, where they’ll savor a minimum of 9 tastings across various eateries and taverns.

From the beloved khinkali dumplings to the fiery chacha brandy, the tour’s menu showcases the diverse flavors that define Georgian cuisine.

The tour is designed to cater to various dietary preferences, with vegetarian options available.

On top of that, the tour is accessible to families, as children must be accompanied by an adult, and strollers are welcome.

Plus, the tour’s proximity to public transportation makes it easily accessible to participants.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?

The tour has no specific dress code. Guests should wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and closed-toe shoes for walking. Dressing casually is acceptable, as the focus is on experiencing the local cuisine and culture.

Can I Take Pictures During the Tour?

Yes, you can take photos during the tour. The organizers encourage guests to capture their experience and share it with others. Just be mindful of others’ privacy and don’t disrupt the group.

Do I Need to Tip the Guide?

Whether you should tip the guide is up to you, but it is customary to do so in many places as a way to show appreciation for good service. The amount is typically 10-20% of the tour cost.

Is It Safe to Walk Around Tbilisi?

Tbilisi is generally a safe city to explore, with low crime rates. However, as with any major city, visitors should exercise caution and be aware of their surroundings. Following basic safety precautions will help ensure an enjoyable and trouble-free experience in Tbilisi.

What Is the Best Time of Year to Visit Tbilisi?

The best time to visit Tbilisi is during the spring and fall when the weather is mild and comfortable. Summers can be hot and humid, while winters can be quite cold, making certain activities and sightseeing less enjoyable.

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Recap

The ‘9 Tastings – Original Tbilisi Food & Drink Walking Tour’ is an immersive exploration of Georgia’s vibrant culinary heritage.

Led by a knowledgeable local guide, the tour offers a minimum of nine tastings of traditional dishes and drinks, catering to diverse dietary preferences.

It promises to delight the senses and broaden the understanding of Tbilisi’s historic Sololaki district.