Georgian cuisine is known for its rich flavors, hearty dishes, and unique blend of spices, herbs, and fresh ingredients. Two of the most beloved dishes in Georgian cooking are Khinkali (dumplings) and Khachapuri (cheese-filled bread). Luckily, Moscow has an array of top-tier Georgian restaurants where you can enjoy these iconic dishes. Here are some of the best places in Moscow to indulge in Khinkali and Khachapuri:
1. Cafe Pervak
Why It’s Great:
- Cafe Pervak is a popular spot among locals and tourists alike for its authentic Georgian dishes and rustic ambiance. Located in the Krasnaya Presnya area, this restaurant is known for its generous portions and traditional Georgian hospitality.
- The restaurant offers mouthwatering Khinkali, stuffed with juicy meat and herbs, and Khachapuri that is made with a perfect blend of melted cheese.
Signature Dishes:
- Khinkali: The dumplings here are flavorful and generously filled with spiced meat or cheese.
- Khachapuri: The Adjaruli Khachapuri (boat-shaped bread filled with cheese, egg, and butter) is a must-try.
Address:
- Cafe Pervak – 7, 2nd Tverskaya-Yamskaya St., Moscow
2. Vino i Myaso
Why It’s Great:
- Vino i Myaso is a cozy, stylish restaurant located near Kropotkinskaya metro station. It offers a wide selection of traditional Georgian wines, as well as an array of Georgian comfort foods, including Khinkali and Khachapuri.
- The restaurant’s dedication to authenticity and quality ingredients makes it a perfect place to enjoy these Georgian specialties.
Signature Dishes:
- Khinkali: The pork and beef filling in the dumplings is exceptionally tasty and complemented by aromatic herbs and spices.
- Khachapuri: Imeretian Khachapuri (round cheese bread) is a lighter option, filled with fresh cheese and served warm.
Address:
- Vino i Myaso – 5, Kropotkinsky per., Moscow
3. Dzhonny Cook
Why It’s Great:
- Dzhonny Cook is a trendy Georgian restaurant with a modern twist on classic recipes. The restaurant’s interior is contemporary, but the food stays true to Georgian culinary traditions.
- Known for serving some of the best Khinkali in town, the place is perfect for comfort food lovers looking for a combination of flavor and atmosphere.
Signature Dishes:
- Khinkali: The dumplings are filled with flavorful meat and served with herb-infused broth.
- Khachapuri: Their Adjaruli Khachapuri is perfectly baked with a rich combination of melted cheese, butter, and a runny egg in the middle.
Address:
- Dzhonny Cook – 8, Pokrovka St., Moscow
4. Tbiliso
Why It’s Great:
- Tbiliso is a traditional Georgian restaurant located in the Arbat area of Moscow. With a welcoming atmosphere and a reputation for serving delicious Georgian classics, it is a great spot to enjoy both Khinkali and Khachapuri.
- Known for its use of fresh, high-quality ingredients, Tbiliso provides a genuine Georgian dining experience.
Signature Dishes:
- Khinkali: The dumplings here are juicy and perfectly seasoned, making them a popular choice among regulars.
- Khachapuri: The restaurant serves a variety of Khachapuri options, but the Adjaruli Khachapuri is a favorite.
Address:
- Tbiliso – 3, Arbat St., Moscow
5. Gvino
Why It’s Great:
- Located in the Kuznetsky Most area, Gvino offers a sophisticated yet cozy atmosphere perfect for enjoying authentic Georgian cuisine. The restaurant has a wide selection of Georgian wines, which pair beautifully with Khinkali and Khachapuri.
- Gvino is known for its focus on fresh, high-quality ingredients and serving food that reflects the heart of Georgian cooking.
Signature Dishes:
- Khinkali: The dumplings here are generously filled with beef, pork, and spices.
- Khachapuri: The Imeretian-style Khachapuri, with its soft, cheesy filling, is a crowd-pleaser.
Address:
- Gvino – 7, Kuznetsky Most St., Moscow
6. Samikitno
Why It’s Great:
- Located near the Kievsky Railway Station, Samikitno is a renowned spot for Georgian food enthusiasts. The ambiance is vibrant and cozy, offering a great environment for a relaxed meal. It specializes in both traditional Khinkali and Khachapuri, as well as other regional dishes.
- The restaurant’s friendly service and welcoming atmosphere make it a great choice for both first-time visitors and regular patrons.
Signature Dishes:
- Khinkali: The beef and pork-filled Khinkali are hearty and satisfying.
- Khachapuri: The Adjaruli Khachapuri, with its rich, cheesy goodness and buttery finish, is one of the most popular dishes.
Address:
- Samikitno – 16, 1st Tverskaya-Yamskaya St., Moscow
7. Café Khachapuri
Why It’s Great:
- As the name suggests, Café Khachapuri focuses on one of Georgia’s most famous dishes: Khachapuri. The café offers a wide range of Khachapuri, including traditional boat-shaped versions and those with various fillings.
- The restaurant also serves Khinkali, making it a great choice for those looking to sample both classic dishes.
Signature Dishes:
- Khachapuri: The Adjaruli Khachapuri here is a favorite, with its perfect combination of cheese and egg.
- Khinkali: The meat-filled Khinkali here are flavorful, juicy, and generously spiced.
Address:
- Café Khachapuri – 11, Bolshoy Kharitonievsky Lane, Moscow
Conclusion: Savor the Flavors of Georgia in Moscow
Moscow is home to a wide variety of Georgian restaurants where you can indulge in Khinkali and Khachapuri, two of the most iconic dishes from Georgia. From traditional flavors at Tbiliso to modern twists at Dzhonny Cook, there’s no shortage of places to enjoy these delicious specialties. Whether you’re a long-time fan of Georgian cuisine or trying it for the first time, these restaurants offer a memorable culinary experience in the heart of Moscow.