What Food To Try in Batumi and Food Prices

Khachapuri - Cheese-Filled Bread - A fluffy bread boat stuffed with melted cheese, often topped with a runny egg and butter. Locals enjoy this for breakfast or a snack, usually tearing it apart to share with friends.

Lobio - Bean Stew - A hearty stew made from kidney beans, herbs, and spices, typically slowly cooked to perfection. This dish is a popular choice for lunch, often served with cornbread and enjoyed in casual gatherings.

Adjarian Khachapuri - Open Boat Bread - A variation featuring a soft bread boat filled with cheese and topped with a runny egg and a dollop of butter. It's a beloved dinner dish, usually made fresh on order, and locals often order it with a side of fresh greens.

Churchkhela - Candle-shaped Nut Candy - Made by threading nuts onto a string and dipping them into a thickened grape juice, forming a chewy, sweet treat. While mostly a snack, it's also enjoyed after meals during fall harvest season, especially at local markets.

Khinkali - Dumplings - Juicy, hand-pinched dumplings filled with spiced meat and broth, perfect for slurping as you bite into them. Traditionally eaten for dinner, locals often make a meal out of several of these at a bustling eatery.

Badrijani - Eggplant Rolls - Fried eggplant slices rolled around a spicy walnut filling, often garnished with fresh herbs. While this is typically a popular appetizer, you’ll find locals enjoying larger portions as a satisfying dinner dish.

Shashlik - Grilled Skewered Meat - Tender chunks of marinated pork or lamb, grilled over an open flame, making for a smoky and succulent bite. Often reserved for evening gatherings, it’s a quintessential street food choice at local celebrations.

Ajapsandali - Vegetable Stew - A comforting mix of eggplant, tomatoes, peppers, and herbs slowly stewed together, reflecting the region’s agricultural bounty. Eaten mainly during summer, this vegetarian dish is perfect for a lighter lunch.

Chai - ჩაის (sweet spiced tea) - A fragrant blend of black tea with milk, sugar, and spices like cinnamon and ginger, served hot. Locals often enjoy it throughout the day, especially during chilly evenings while catching up with friends or family.

Lemonade - ლიმონათი (refreshing lemon drink) - Made with freshly squeezed lemons, sugar, and sparkling water, this drink is served ice-cold on hot summer days. It's a common choice at seaside cafes, providing relief from the warm sun while you absorb the lively Batumi atmosphere.

Chacha - ჩაჩა (grape pomace brandy) - A potent spirit distilled from grape leftovers, this drink often warms up chilly nights and is a favorite at family gatherings or celebratory toasts. Locals might serve it in small shots, urging you to "gqavlis," which is basically "cheers" in Georgian, and sharing a few interesting stories.

Napoleon Cake - ნაპოლეონის ტორტი (layered pastry dessert) - This delectable treat features layers of crisp pastry and decadent cream, commonly enjoyed at celebrations and special occasions. Often served chilled, it's slightly crispy on the outside yet creamy inside, making every bite a delightful experience.

Gelato - გელატო (artisanal ice cream) - Known for its rich flavor, this frozen dessert is made with milk, cream, and seasonal fruits like cherries or walnuts in Batumi. You’ll find locals enjoying it on warm evenings, strolling along the boulevard; just remember, it's best to savor a small scoop rather than indulging in a large cup!

By the way, don’t be surprised if you find yourself switching from coffee to Chai as you dive deeper into Batumi's charm—the locals truly live by the motto that tea is always a good idea!