Batumi, the capital of Georgia’s Adjaria region, offers a stark contrast to the bustling and politically charged atmosphere of Tbilisi. With its sunny Black Sea climate, pebble beaches, and palm-fringed boulevards, Batumi is a city of relaxation and leisure. Known for its lush greenery and diverse architecture, it combines European influences with Turkish-style balconies and Art Nouveau masterpieces.
While Batumi has been a popular destination for sunseekers from former Soviet states, Israel, Turkey, and Arab countries, it is now attracting more Western tourists and digital nomads, drawn by Georgia’s liberal visa policy. However, it’s not just the beaches and casinos that captivate visitors; the city’s gastronomy is becoming a major draw.
Adjaria has a rich culinary heritage, celebrated throughout Georgia for its flavorful and varied cuisine. Batumi has experienced a surge in the number of restaurants and cafes, with an influx of entrepreneurial Russians, Ukrainians, and returning ethnic Georgians. Some estimates suggest that the number of dining establishments in Batumi doubled last year. Additionally, the nearby mountains are home to small vineyards producing excellent wines from local grape varieties.
To explore Batumi’s vibrant food scene, Koba Jincharadze, a local tour organizer, recommends five places that showcase the best of the city’s gastronomy.
- House of Adjarian Khachapuri: Located near Batumi’s seafront gardens, this unassuming restaurant specializes in khachapuri, a traditional Georgian cheese bread. The restaurant is renowned for its Adjarian khachapuri, a boat-shaped pastry filled with cheese, butter, and a bright yellow egg yolk symbolizing the sun. The House of Adjarian Khachapuri offers authentic flavors, using traditional recipes and wood-fired ovens. It has gained popularity among locals and tourists alike.
Batumi’s gastronomic scene continues to evolve, with a focus on showcasing the region’s culinary diversity and rich heritage. Visitors to Batumi can immerse themselves in the vibrant flavors of Georgian cuisine while enjoying the city’s relaxed and idyllic coastal atmosphere.