The Best Local Foods to Try While Visiting Batumi, Georgia

Batumi, a vibrant city on the Black Sea coast of Georgia, is not only known for its stunning architecture and beautiful beaches but also for its rich culinary heritage. The local cuisine reflects a blend of various cultures and traditions, making it a delightful destination for food lovers. When visiting Batumi, trying the local foods is an essential part of the experience. This article explores the best local foods you should savor while in this picturesque city.

From traditional Georgian dishes to unique regional specialties, Batumi offers a wide array of flavors that are sure to tantalize your taste buds. Here, we delve into some of the must-try dishes, their origins, and the best places to enjoy them.

Khachapuri

Khachapuri is perhaps the most iconic Georgian dish, and in Batumi, you will find many variations of this cheesy bread. This dish is a must-try for anyone visiting Georgia, as it represents the heart of Georgian cuisine. The dough is typically made from flour, water, yeast, and salt, and it is filled with a mixture of cheese, eggs, and butter.

• Adjarian Khachapuri: This is a boat-shaped version of khachapuri that originates from the Adjara region, where Batumi is located. It is filled with a mixture of sulguni cheese and topped with a raw egg and a pat of butter before serving. The combination of melted cheese and buttery dough creates an irresistible dish.
• Mingrelian Khachapuri: This variation is known for its generous layer of cheese on top, making it even cheesier than the Adjarian version. It is a popular choice for cheese lovers.

For the best khachapuri in Batumi, head to Khachapuri House or Megruli Khachapuri, where you can enjoy authentic flavors in a cozy setting.

Khinkali

Khinkali are Georgian dumplings that are filled with spiced meat, typically a mix of beef and pork, along with herbs and spices. These dumplings are a staple in Georgian cuisine and are often served with a sprinkle of black pepper. The unique aspect of khinkali is the juicy broth inside, which makes them a delightful experience to eat.

• How to Eat Khinkali: When eating khinkali, it's essential to pick them up by the twisted top. Take a small bite to sip the broth before devouring the rest. Be prepared for some delicious juice to escape!
• Vegetarian Options: Many restaurants also offer vegetarian khinkali filled with potatoes, mushrooms, or cheese.

For the best khinkali in Batumi, visit Khinkali House or Baraka, where you can find various fillings and experience the authentic way of enjoying this dish.

Ajapsandali

Ajapsandali is a traditional Georgian ratatouille made with a medley of vegetables such as eggplant, tomatoes, peppers, and potatoes. This hearty dish is seasoned with fresh herbs and spices, making it a flavorful and healthy option. Ajapsandali is often served as a side dish or as a main course, especially for vegetarians.

• Regional Variations: Each region in Georgia may have its own twist on ajapsandali, but the core ingredients remain the same. It is usually enjoyed warm and can be paired with a piece of freshly baked bread.
• Where to Try: Look for ajapsandali at local markets or restaurants like Gurian Kitchen, where traditional recipes are honored.

This dish not only showcases the rich agricultural produce of Georgia but also embodies the essence of home-cooked meals, making it a comforting choice for visitors.

Grilled Fish

Given Batumi's coastal location, fresh seafood is abundant. Grilled fish, particularly mackerel and trout, is a popular dish in local cuisine. The fish is often marinated with spices and herbs before being grilled to perfection, creating a smoky and flavorful dish.

• Serving Styles: Grilled fish is typically served with a side of fresh vegetables, lemon, and a sprinkle of herbs. It's a healthy and delicious option for seafood lovers.
• Top Spots: For the freshest grilled fish, visit Fish Market Batumi or Restaurant Abashidze, where you can enjoy the catch of the day alongside stunning sea views.

Make sure to try the local fish dishes while enjoying a sunset by the Black Sea for an unforgettable experience.

Local Wines

No visit to Batumi would be complete without indulging in Georgian wines. Georgia is one of the oldest wine-producing countries in the world, and its wines are known for their unique flavors and traditional production methods. The local wines are often made from indigenous grape varieties, offering a distinct taste that you won't find anywhere else.

To explore the local wine scene, visit wine bars like Wine House or Vino Underground, where you can sample various wines and learn about Georgia's winemaking traditions.

Lobio

Lobio is a traditional Georgian bean stew that is typically flavored with a variety of herbs and spices. This dish is hearty and filling, making it a popular choice among locals. Lobio can be made with different types of beans, but the most common are kidney beans or black beans.

• Accompaniments: It is often served with cornbread or fresh bread and can be garnished with fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley.
• Where to Find: Look for lobio at traditional restaurants such as Old Batumi or Chveni Ezo, where it is made using family recipes passed down through generations.

This dish is not only delicious but also a great way to experience the home-style cooking that characterizes Georgian cuisine.

Churchkhela

Churchkhela is a popular Georgian sweet treat made from nuts and grape juice. It consists of walnuts or hazelnuts threaded onto a string and then dipped in a thickened grape juice mixture. The result is a chewy, flavorful snack that is both nutritious and satisfying.

• Local Variations: Depending on the region, churchkhela can be made with different types of nuts and fruits, giving it unique flavors.
• Where to Buy: You can find churchkhela in local markets and shops throughout Batumi, especially at the Batumi Central Market.

This tasty treat is perfect for those looking to take a piece of Georgia home with them, as it is easy to pack and enjoy later.

Traditional Georgian Sweets

In addition to churchkhela, Batumi offers a variety of other traditional sweets that are worth trying. Some of these include:

• Gozinaki: A sweet made from nuts and honey, often enjoyed during festive occasions.
• Pahlava: A rich pastry made with layers of filo dough, nuts, and syrup, similar to baklava.
• Pelamushi: A dessert made from grape juice and flour, served as a pudding-like treat.

These sweets can be found in local bakeries and markets, and they make for great souvenirs to take home or share with friends and family.

Local Ice Cream

Batumi's warm climate makes it the perfect place to indulge in some delicious ice cream. Local ice cream shops offer a range of flavors, including traditional Georgian options such as tklapi (fruit leather) and nut-based flavors.

• Popular Spots: Visit Gelato Factory or Ice Cream Bar to enjoy refreshing ice cream after a day of exploring the city.
• Unique Flavors: Don't miss the chance to try ice cream made from local fruits or even the famous churchkhela flavor!

With its variety of flavors and creamy texture, local ice cream is a delightful way to cool down in Batumi.

Street Food

Bathe in the local culture by trying Batumi's vibrant street food scene. Street vendors offer a variety of delicious snacks that are perfect for on-the-go dining. Some popular street food options include:

• Khachapuri on the Go: Many vendors sell smaller versions of khachapuri, making it easy to enjoy this beloved dish while walking around the city.
• Puri: Georgian bread that is freshly baked and often served warm. It's perfect for dipping into stews or enjoying on its own.
• Grilled Corn: A popular snack, especially during summer, grilled corn is often sold by street vendors and is seasoned with salt or cheese.

Exploring the street food options allows you to experience the local culture and flavors in a casual and fun way.

Conclusion

Batumi is a culinary paradise, offering a rich tapestry of flavors and dishes that reflect the diverse heritage of Georgia. From the cheesy goodness of khachapuri to the hearty warmth of lobio, each dish tells a story of tradition and love for food. Whether you dine in upscale restaurants or enjoy street food, Batumi's local cuisine is sure to leave a lasting impression.

As you explore this charming city, make sure to indulge in the local dishes and savor the unique flavors that make Batumi a must-visit destination for food enthusiasts.