Your go to guide on my favorite cafes, bars and restaurants in Tbilisi.

If you have found yourself in Georgia, count yourself lucky, Tbilisi the country’s capital is a fantastic place to spend a few extra days. The capital captures the charm of Georgia. Among the often cobbled streets you will find medieval buildings sharing space with galleries, cafes and boutique shops. Street art and orthodox iconography stand side by side as do the blended cultures of Western Asia and Eastern Europe. Needless to say, if you find yourself in Tbilisi you are in for a treat. The capital of Georgia is home to over a million people, dozens of landmarks and heaps of history. Tbilisi boasts an up-and-coming art scene and is overflowing with culinary delights. Read on to find my top places to drink and eat in this often-overlooked capital.

Ready to eat? Looking for a place to dive into local fare- Here are my top picks on both sides of the river for warming Georgian dishes:

Racha The small family-style restaurant will send you back in time with its tavern-like feel and classic menu. Whether you’re hunting for khinkali, the delicious dumplings that can be filled with almost anything… my favorites? the cheese and chives. Or a big bowl of kharcho soup, the cozy stew of beef, herbs and tangy plum sauce perfect for the cooler days. This spot serves up Georgian standards that are perfect for a chilly day.

Mapshalia -Another small tavern-style restaurant that boasts a great menu, tasty Georgian classics, and various hot and cold dishes… I suggest trying the Lobiani, a comfort food if ever there was one. This smoky bean-filled bread is a crowd favorite. Or if you’re in the mood for something heavier try the Adjarian Khachapuri, a cheese and egg bread boat that is as fantastic as it sounds, melted salty cheese with the fatty egg yolk and fluffy bread… can it get any better?

Cafes galore– Although it is hard to narrow it down when it comes to cafes these two were my favorites. Check them out in between sightseeing or as you start your day:

Groovy Roasters -A café for those who love coffee, or just really like cool spaces and a good cup of joe. In a setup as trendy or groovy as they come this café does an excellent job of making you feel like you’re in a friend’s living room. It is the perfect spot for a morning brew.

Linville Café– Continuing the theme of living rooms, this little café transports you back in time with its vintage décor and second-floor location. They have coffee, food, and comfy chairs… what more can I say!

Music and drinks: Looking to see what the music and bar scene is like? Jazz clubs and similar music bars are well and alive in the city, here are two of my favorites:

Philosof Club – If you want to bite into the live music scene of Tbilisi, this jazz bar is a great spot to begin. Downstairs (are you sensing a theme here?) you’ll find a bar, food service, and a wide range of musical performances. The venue is intimate while still having enough space to pack in a crowd. The nights range from jam sessions to jazz to a little bit of everything.

1984 – Just a corner away is this upstairs apartment-style jazz club. Cozy and intimate, 1984 offers an insight into the variety of music available in the Georgian capital. This club feels much more like you’re in someone’s living room than a bar, focusing on a range of local jazz talent check their Facebook to see who’s playing.

Nightlife in the city: Now for those on the hunt for more of a night out and party scene, grab your bottle of chacha( Georgian brandy that packs quite a punch) and here you go…

Fabrika: A list of trendy places in Tbilisi would not be complete without its cornerstone, Fabrika. A place for tourists and locals alike, this old factory turned art space/hostel/coworking/bar/food court… I mean seriously they have packed it all in there. If you’re looking for a place to start the evening this is your spot thanks to its social vibe, available nearby bars and food options.

Mutant Radio: This one is a bit of a wildcard, but for those looking for an open-air bar and music space, look no further than this makeshift venue. placed in an old industrial lot there is a bar and tables, heaters for the cool weather, and a set up for music… but not much more and that is its charm. You get a glimpse of a more eclectic side of Tbilisi’s music and night-scene.

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That wraps up the guide to my top spots in Tbilisi. The city is packed not only with history and great culture but dozens of spots where those two intersect with the contemporary crowd. here were just some of my favorites that jumped between the old and the new. Enjoy your time and…happy eating drinking, and hunting for your own favorite spots!