Khinkali is a popular Georgian dish which can be found nearly anywhere in Georgia. The dish takes the form of a round meat dumpling comprised of pork, beef, or lamb. When making the dish raw meat filling is placed inside a doughy wrap and boiled to cook both the filling and dough. During the boiling process, the meat produces concentrated broth which gathers in the dumpling and must be sucked out when biting the dumpling. The top portion of the dumpling consists of tough dough and is used to count how many a person has eaten.
Khinkali is believed to have been created in the region of Khevsureti and found popularity elsewhere in Georgia soon after. Most areas of Georgia have regional takes on the recipe, providing multiple ways to prepare this dish. Tbilisi has developed its own recipe called Kalakuri, which can be found in most eateries in the city.
The restaurant chain Pasanauri serves Khinkali cooked in the traditional style and offers an authentic representation of the dishes taste. The chain is very popular among the locals and has multiple locations in Tbilisi’s city center, one of which is open 24 hours a day.
Zakhar Zakharichi serves the original lamb and onion recipe, providing a taste of the first known method of making Khinkali. The chain is named for a tavern owner who grew famous for providing free food to the poor of Tbilisi.
Ethno Tsiskvili provides a scenic view and live local music along with the food, with a natural waterfall on display on the restaurants premises. Dances are commonly performed along with the live music.
Hofbrau offers German food and beer alongside local food. The food displays strong German influences and any fan of German beer will feel at home with its strong offerings.
Bernard offers extremely well made food alongside a friendly, inviting, and authentic atmosphere. While the food is excellent and it is open 24 hours, it often becomes crowded because of its popularity and it may be difficult to find service.
