Um. Excuse me. How has it already been two months since I posted the last Roundup? Where is the time going?
Also, how have we been here almost a full year already? That’s crazy.
Anyway. Here’s my top five (give or take) for this month.
Top Five Restaurants:
Azarpheshia: This is one of the famous John Wardman creations, and it did not disappoint. For those who don’t know, John is the mastermind behind Pheasant’s Tears wine, and he has several restaurants in Tbilisi and around Georgia. We visited this particular one with friends and enjoyed a relaxing and laid-back atmosphere and of course good food. They do have a seasonal menu, and the cuisine is primarily Georgian with a twist. I’d recommend ordering family-style to get the most out of your experience.
Sosa Cafe and Bakery: We sort of stumbled upon this one by accident. It was one of those days where we were wandering downtown without much of a plan, then suddenly decided to go to Fabrika and plant shop. On the way, I went from hungry to hangry, and Sean ushered me into this charming little bakery. They have an assortment of yummy treats to sample, as well as breakfast/brunch entrees if you’re in the mood. We didn’t’ order anything but snacks, and they were kind enough to give us a few free samples as well.
Kikliko: I write this knowing full-well Sean is quite jealous of me. I went here without him on his recommendation, and when I came home raving about the eggs Benedict, he couldn’t conceal his jealousy. This cafe is quite small, but they have a menu full of breakfast heavy-hitters, decent coffee, and a charming atmosphere. This little cafe is also within walking distance of the popular TenTen nail salon which makes it easy to grab a bite before or after your appointment.
Ovsyanka: Apparently we were on a colossal breakfast kick this go round. Relatively new, Ovsyanka is located around the corner from Rooms Hotel and made for a delicious breakfast a few weekends ago when we were playing tourist in Tbilisi. Their menu is one of those where the longer I read, the more confused I became – everything sounded good! I ended up with scrambled eggs which were creamy and delicious and everything they should be. Ovsyanka serves breakfast all day and doubles as a bar so if the mood strikes I do believe you could order a cocktail with breakfast fare any time of day. Quite a unique concept if you ask me.
Keto and Kote: We finally, finally made it to the elusive Keto and Kote. I call it elusive because every time we’ve tried to go in the past, they’ve been booked. I always take that with a grain of salt when a place says they are booked here (are you really, or do you just not want to deal with me?), but after visiting at 9:30 p.m. and it still being packed I’m now more inclined to believe them. Keto and Kote is one of those perfect date night locations with a beautiful view of the city, charmingly decorated interior, and an exciting menu. They have a lot of typical Georgian cuisine, but also a lot of Georgian with a twist. For example, I wanted to order mini pesto khinkali, but unfortunately, they were sold out. Of course, we will have to return, perhaps for my birthday later this year.
All Sorts of Beverages:
Vitamin Corner: So, there’s a juice bar in Tbilisi. If you haven’t heard of it don’t worry, it only opened a few weeks ago. Funny thing, Sean and I both found it the day before it opened in different ways – he from a news article, me from Instagram. (Pretty indicative of how we each operate.) We went down the very next day to try it out and enjoyed it immensely. I will say, they are more smoothies than juice, and not exactly groundbreaking if you have a high-speed blender, but smoothies are one of those foods where it’s nice to let someone else do the dirty work once in a while. I’m looking forward to returning here in the summer for a cool and healthy refresher.
Minimalist Coffee: I know I’ve talked a lot about coffee shops on here so I can’t keep claiming to have a new favorite every two months but hear me out. This coffee shop’s menu is in the name: minimal, but what makes it unique is the fact that it’s attached to an art gallery specializing in photography. Pretty much the key to my heart. It’s worth a visit for the art alone, but spending a few lari on a decent cup of coffee to support their business is always a kind thing to do.
As always, please leave me any recommendations. Also, follow me on Instagram for my current Tbilisi Eats recommendations under story highlights.
