Restaurants near Kutaisi: Hidden Gems of Authentic Georgian Cuisine

Hey, I’m Oto, the owner of Rotel, Kutaisi’s coziest stay. After years of exploring the city’s food scene, I’ve already shared my favorite authentic restaurants in Kutaisi - the spots where history and tradition come alive through every bite.

But great food isn’t limited to the city center! This time, I’m taking you beyond Kutaisi to discover the best restaurants in the surrounding areas, where local flavors, warm hospitality and beautiful countryside settings come together for an unforgettable dining experience.

Ternali – Timeless Imeretian Charm

Ternali is a well-known restaurant in Tskaltubo that has maintained its reputation for excellent food and warm hospitality for many years. When talking about Ternali, the first thing that comes to mind is Mr. Guram, the heart and soul of this place. He greets guests with true Imeretian hospitality, standing behind a Soviet-era refrigerated counter filled with cold appetizers. In no time, he sets up a feast for you in a nostalgic dining hall, complete with old-school Soviet interiors and the soft hum of a TV in the background.

For starters, don’t miss the green salad, eggplant with garlic, nadughi (soft cheese with mint), seasonal pkhali (vegetable pâtés), Imeretian cheese, and chadi (cornbread). The menu is diverse, offering a great selection of meat dishes, while the khachapuri is exceptional.

Sormoni - Imereti on the Horizon

If you wake up to a sunny day in Kutaisi, consider planning a delightful lunch at Sormoni, a restaurant nestled in the village of Motsameta, just a 15-minute drive from the city center. This hidden paradise offers breathtaking views of the Khvamli Mountain from rustic wooden tables set under lush greenery.

Enjoy a traditional Imeretian feast under the shade of a tree, sip on Tsitska-Tsolikouri wine, and immerse yourself in the sounds of live Imeretian folk singing (available upon request for an additional 30-50 GEL).

The menu features legendary dishes such as kuchmachi (spiced chicken liver and heart), generous slices of Imeretian cheese, roasted baby chicken, and homestyle fried potatoes.

Rdzlebi – A Love Story of Wine and Food

One of the absolute must-visit spots on this list is Rdzlebi, located in Terjola, just 15 km from Kutaisi. This unique dining experience is the creation of Gogita Makaridze, a renowned natural winemaker, and his wife Keto Futuridze, who transformed their vision into a one-of-a-kind seasonal restaurant.

Operating only in spring and summer, Rdzlebi offers a set menu featuring locally sourced dishes, served in a stunning green garden. After sipping on exquisite Imeretian wine, you’ll be invited into a charming traditional oda house, where Keto prepares a feast showcasing the best of the season.

Pro tip: Order everything on the menu—you won’t regret it!

Golden lake - A Seafood Escape

For fish lovers, golden lake is a must-visit. Located just 20 minutes from Kutaisi, near Kopitnari Airport, this restaurant sits by a beautiful lake filled with fish. The tranquil setting is perfect for enjoying grilled salmon, fresh trout, and a variety of classic Georgian dishes that perfectly complement seafood, such as pkhali with walnuts, chadi (cornbread), cheese, and walnut-stuffed eggplant rolls.

While waiting for your meal, take a pedal boat ride on the lake and soak in the peaceful surroundings.

Lia Deida – The Soul of Imeretian Hospitality

Another hidden gem in the Imereti region, Lia Deida (which translates to "Aunt Lia" in Georgian) is located about 20 km from Kutaisi. Any restaurant named after its owner carries a special charm, and Lia Deida is no exception. This place not only serves exceptional home-cooked Imeretian dishes but also doubles as an inspirational, museum-like space, filled with character and history.

Expect generous portions, authentic flavors, and a warm, family-style atmosphere that makes every meal feel like a special occasion. Whatever you choose from the menu, you’re in for a treat!

Every restaurant on this list offers more than just a meal—they invite you into their world of flavors, traditions, and heartfelt hospitality. From scenic countryside escapes to charming family-run kitchens, each spot tells a story through its food. Whether you're here for the views, the wine, or the warmth of Imeretian hospitality, you’re in for an unforgettable experience. Wishing you a delicious journey!