Greasy Cuisine Enchanting Locals for Decades

This place has been hailed by Georgians for decades. People enter and exit the small, almost unnoticeable door to get a taste of homemade Georgian cuisine. One should always trust the locals to find good food spots, as,  in the end, it is they who know the city best.

While the streets around Freedom Square are adorned with modern restaurants furnished with state-of-the-art gadgets, only a brown triangular rooftop above the entrance of this locale helps you to spot it. A simple white door generically imitating the most common type of doors used in Georgia. The exterior is uninspiring, but rather haunting. Without a recommendation, I would have needed to be in a very courageous state to step over the doorsill. The smell of grease penetrates your nostrils even when standing outside on the street.

Yet, this place is a top hotspot in town. Hungry mouths occupy the tables and the traffic at the door is high. Lunchtime is especially busy and free chairs are a rarity. The convincing tune that forces Georgians to dance into the restaurant every day is its cuisine. From khinkali to khachapuri, all typical Georgian dishes are served, peppered with the essential love of a grandmother to create an exceptional taste.

The menu goes beyond the main types of food, also incorporating a variety of regional creations. Everyone interested in finding a place showcasing the full range of ingredients needed for Georgian dishes is advised to venture into Dukani Racha. A name which stands for consistency in an evolving city longing for modernity. From Soviet KGB agents, over independent fighters, to Bassiani youngsters, the restaurant has hosted all influential groups of Tbilisi regardless of political leanings, all for the high goodness of delicious food.

4 Mikheil Lermontovi St, Tbilisi

By Benjamin Music

Photo: culinary backstreet