Old Town and Beyond: A Tbilisi Silk Road Feast with Culinary Backstreets

Introducing the Old Town and Beyond: A Tbilisi Silk Road Feast with Culinary Backstreets

This 7-hour tour in Tbilisi promises a fascinating blend of culinary delights and historic sights along the route of the ancient Silk Road. Priced at $125 per person, it’s a well-considered way to explore the city’s rich culture and flavors with a small group. It’s offered by Culinary Backstreets, which keeps the group limited to just 7 travelers, ensuring a personal touch and plenty of opportunities to ask questions.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the expert guide Maka, who’s praised for her encyclopedic knowledge of both Georgian cuisine and local history. Second, the focus on authentic food samples—from traditional khinkali and shkmeruli to artisanal cheese and small-batch wines—means you’ll come away with much more than just sightseeing.

A potential consideration? The tour’s length and walking-heavy itinerary might be tiring for some, especially if you’re not used to long days on your feet. Also, since it’s a small-group experience, booking early is advisable if you want a spot.

This tour is perfect for history buffs who love food, culture seekers interested in local traditions, or travelers who want a comprehensive introduction to Tbilisi’s character in a day.

Key Points

• Authentic Experiences: Walk through Tbilisi’s historic sites with a guide who shares local stories and culinary secrets.
• Diverse Tasting Stops: Multiple stops for sampling Georgian dishes, wines, and artisanal products.
• Cultural Highlights: Visit iconic landmarks like the Sioni Cathedral, Anchiskhati Basilica, and Metekhi Cathedral.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides like Maka make history and food come alive.
• Small Group: Limited to 7 travelers, ensuring personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere.
• Full Day of Food and Culture: Expect a satisfying feast that keeps you full from morning to evening.

A Detailed Exploration of the Tbilisi Silk Road Food Tour

Starting in the Old Town: A Whimsical Introduction

Your journey begins at Waterfall Square, a lively hub where the scent of fresh bread and roasting spices already hints at the delights ahead. From there, you’ll stroll into Old Town Tbilisi, a maze of winding streets and historic architecture, perfect for enjoying the city’s vibrant soul. The first stop is an underground Azeri tea house, offering a rare glimpse into regional tea customs—an unexpected and cozy beginning that immediately sets a warm tone.

What’s special about this? It’s not just a quick taste; it’s an intimate peek into how local communities cherish their traditions. Visitors often comment on how Maka’s storytelling adds depth, making the experience more than just sampling tea.

Exploring Sioni Cathedral and Local Artisans

Next, you’ll visit the Sioni Cathedral, an important religious site with stunning architecture. But the highlight here is the shop run by the church, selling products straight from Orthodox monasteries. We loved the way these products are artisanal and authentic, offering a direct link to Georgia’s monastic craft traditions. Sampling treats here gives you a taste of centuries-old recipes, making it a true culinary window into Georgian culture.

Sipping Georgian Wines at Freedom Square’s Hidden Cellar

In one of the tour’s standout moments, you’ll head to a secret wine bar tucked behind the back streets near Freedom Square. This is a highlight for wine lovers because Georgia is famous for its small-scale wine producers and unique qvevri-fermented wines. Expect a tasting that showcases Georgian wines beyond the mass-market bottles, with some reviews calling it “Georgia’s finest small-batch wines.”

Visiting Anchiskhati Basilica: The Oldest Church

A short walk takes you to Anchiskhati Basilica, the oldest surviving church in Tbilisi. Its century-spanning stones and serene atmosphere offer a peaceful moment amidst the city’s lively streets. Visitors often appreciate how Maka’s insights reveal the church’s architectural significance—an essential stop to understand Tbilisi’s religious and cultural roots.

Rezo Gabriadze Marionette Theater and a Georgian Chicken Dish

No visit to Tbilisi is complete without seeing the Rezo Gabriadze Marionette Theater. Situated nearby, it’s a whimsical spot where craft and storytelling intertwine. Here, you’ll sit down for shkmeruli, a sizzling chicken dish beloved in Georgia. Reviewers rave about how this dish exemplifies Georgian hospitality—rich, juicy, and full of flavor, a true feast for the senses.

Sampling Khinkali Near Parliament

Just outside the Parliament building, you’ll meet a khinkali master who makes fresh dumplings before your eyes. This is a highlight for many, as the art of making and eating khinkali (savory meat-filled dumplings) is central to Georgian cuisine. Expect to taste the difference fresh, hand-made khinkali can make—a real treat that keeps you coming back for more, as reflected in reviews praising the authentic flavors.

Ending at Metekhi Cathedral and Artisanal Cheese Tasting

Your final sightseeing stop is the Metekhi Cathedral, which offers stunning views of the city. Passing by, you’ll stop at a local cheese shop for a tasting, where the artisanal cheeses are paired beautifully with Georgian bread, honey, or wine. Travelers describe this as a perfect way to conclude a full day, feeling both satisfied and enlightened about Georgia’s culinary traditions.

The Experience: What You Can Expect

Throughout the day, you’ll experience a mix of walking, sitting for tastings, and learning. With the small group size, guides like Maka can tailor info and ensure everyone has time for questions. The tour runs from 10:00 am, so you’ll want to start your day prepared for a lot of walking and eating.

Expect to visit sites that are rich in history but also accessible—most stops are free to enter, and the tastings are included in the price. The entire experience balances educational storytelling with tasty bites, making the hours fly by.

Food and Drink Quality

Multiple reviewers highlighted the quality of the food and wine. One called the wine tasting “a highlight,” noting the small-producer wines that showcase Georgia’s diverse terroir. The culinary stops aren’t just about quantity but focus on authenticity and tradition, giving you a real taste of local life.

Guides and Atmosphere

Reviews consistently praise Maka and other guides for their deep knowledge and friendly demeanor. They’re passionate about sharing stories and food secrets, which makes the experience engaging and personal. This isn’t a scripted tour—it’s an authentic window into Tbilisi’s heartbeat.

The Value Proposition

At $125, this tour offers more than just sightseeing—it provides a full-bodied cultural experience. Considering you’ll taste multiple dishes, sample wines, and learn from a passionate guide, the price is reasonable for such a comprehensive day. Plus, the small-group dynamic enhances comfort and interaction.

Who Will Love This?

If you’re intrigued by history and food, don’t mind walking, and want an authentic, well-rounded introduction to Tbilisi, this tour is a perfect pick. It’s especially suited for those who like deep dives into local culture, as Maka’s stories add valuable context.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 7 hours, from 10:00 am to late afternoon, including multiple stops and tastings.

What is included in the price?
The fee covers all tastings, including food samples, wine tastings, and visits to key historic sites. No extra charges are mentioned.

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, and service animals are allowed. The walking and eating focus make it ideal for adults and older children.

How many people will be on the tour?
It’s a small group with a maximum of 7 travelers, ensuring a comfortable and personalized experience.

Are the sites accessible?
Most stops are within walking distance, but some walking is involved, so comfort with walking is recommended.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes are advisable. Since most tastings are included, no additional money is necessary unless you want to buy souvenirs.

Is this tour family-friendly?
While suitable for most, it’s best for those who enjoy walking and trying new foods.

Can I book this tour in advance?
Yes, booking ahead is recommended to secure your spot, especially during peak seasons.

What is the meeting point?
The tour begins at Waterfall Square, 21-23 Abano Street, Tbilisi.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

The Sum Up: Who Is It Best For?

This tour offers a rich combination of Tbilisi’s culinary and historic treasures in a manageable, small-group setting. It’s an excellent choice for food lovers eager to understand Georgia’s flavors and history enthusiasts wanting stories behind the sights. The knowledgeable guides and authentic tastings make every step engaging and educational.

If you’re after a full, satisfying day filled with local flavors and stories, this tour delivers. It’s especially suited for those willing to walk and taste their way through the city, appreciating how food connects to history and culture. For travelers who enjoy intimate experiences with local insights and delicious surprises, this is a memorable way to spend a day in Tbilisi.

Note: While the experience is well-reviewed, always check availability and consider your walking stamina before booking. The combination of sights, bites, and stories will surely leave you with a deeper understanding and love for this fascinating city.