Alani is one of the only spots in Tbilisi for Ossetian food. It is split into two sections – a street-level bar that serves house brewed beer (Ossetia is famous for its dark, slightly sweet beer), and a basement restaurant, on the main corner leading into Abanotubani – Old Tbilisi’s bath district.

In reality, the menu is mostly traditional Georgian dishes that you can find at any Georgian restaurant, but there are some special Ossetian dishes that make it definitely worth the trip. Ossetian pirogis are generally available – similar to Georgian khachapuri but with more complex fillings. Try the khabizgina stuffed with potato and cheese, or the tsaharadjin with beet root leaves and cheese! For the adventurous pallet – Alani’s most famous offering is a traditional dish of baked brains raved about by anyone who has tried them (and even some who haven’t).

Even The Guardian has written about this Tbilisi classic – “in restaurants such as Alani, the sound of toasts being drunk is drowned out only by the synth-played Russian pop. You might still find yourself abducted, as my partner once was, by a supra party and forced to down 10 shots of chacha (brandy) at one go.”

Main Photo: TripAdvisor