Cooking Class of Khinkali and Khachapuri in Tbilisi

Tasting Georgia: A Hands-On Cooking Class of Khinkali and Khachapuri in Tbilisi

Exploring Tbilisi’s culinary scene is a vital part of experiencing Georgia’s vibrant culture, and a dedicated cooking class focused on two of its most iconic dishes—Khinkali and Khachapuri in Imeretian style—offers a fantastic way to dive deeper. This experience promises not just a lesson in making these beloved dishes but also an opportunity to enjoy authentic ingredients, insider tips, and a warm, homely environment.

What we particularly love about this class is how it blends practical cooking skills with cultural storytelling. The hosts are friendly and eager to share the secrets behind Georgian flavors, making it accessible even for beginners. A notable highlight is the inclusion of a glass of local wine, adding a celebratory touch and a true taste of Georgian hospitality.

A possible consideration is the modest group size—maxing out at just 10 participants—which means the experience is intimate but could fill up early. It’s best suited for those who enjoy interactive, hands-on activities and want to bring authentic Georgian dishes home. Perfect for food lovers, curious travelers, or anyone wanting a more meaningful connection with Georgia’s culinary heritage.

Key Points

• Authentic Recipes: Learn to make genuine Georgian Khinkali and Khachapuri with detailed, easy-to-follow instructions.
• Homely Atmosphere: The class takes place in a cozy, welcoming culinary studio that feels like cooking with friends.
• Expert Guidance: The chef shares insider tips on dough preparation, filling ingredients, and presentation.
• Local Wine & Refreshments: Enjoy a glass of white wine produced locally, complementing your culinary creations.
• Cultural Insight: Discover the significance of these dishes in Georgian culture and how to find authentic ingredients.
• Recipe Handouts: Take home detailed recipes so you can replicate your dishes back home.

A Closer Look at the Experience

The Venue: Cozy and Welcoming

The class is hosted in a culinary studio that feels more like a friend’s kitchen than a commercial space. This setup fosters a relaxed atmosphere, making it easier for participants to ask questions and engage fully. The idea of a homely environment is not just a marketing phrase—many reviews mention how welcoming and friendly the hosts are, which adds to the overall enjoyment.

The Itinerary: What You’ll Actually Do

The experience lasts approximately two hours, during which you’ll be actively involved in preparing two signature Georgian dishes. The class kicks off with introductions to finding the right ingredients, emphasizing the importance of fresh, quality products—especially crucial for the dough and cheese used in Khachapuri.

For Khinkali, you’ll learn how to correctly shape and seal the dumplings to prevent them from falling apart during cooking. The chef stresses the importance of the broth filling, which many consider the soul of Khinkali, and shares tips on how to get the perfect “twist” at the top to hold in all that flavorful juice.

When making Khachapuri in Imeretian style, you’ll discover how to craft the dough so it’s even and resilient enough to hold the cheese. The chef will also share decorative tips—like how to shape and embellish the dish—to make it as beautiful as it is delicious. The cheese used should melt into a gooey experience, and you’ll learn what kind of cheese works best for authentic stretchiness.

Practical Skills and Cultural Insights

One of the highlights is the step-by-step guidance on how to turn out your khinkali so they don’t fall apart—something many first-timers worry about. You’ll also explore the secrets behind choosing ingredients that are authentic and flavorful, often overlooked by travelers shopping in supermarkets.

Throughout the class, you’ll be treated to a glass of Georgian white wine, crafted from local grapes, which elevates the experience. The host also generously offers bottled water to keep everyone refreshed.

Post-lesson: Savoring and Sharing

Once your dishes are ready, the class pauses for a tasting session, where you get to enjoy your creations along with the wine. Many reviewers have noted that the delicious flavors make the experience feel well worth the price, especially since you also receive printed recipes to recreate these dishes later.

What’s Included & What’s Not

This experience offers great value: you get to cook two signature dishes, enjoy tastings, sip local wine, and leave with recipes. The price of $98 per person might seem steep at first glance, but considering the hands-on nature, personalized guidance, and authentic ingredients, it’s a fair investment—particularly for foodies.

Note that transportation isn’t included, so plan how you’ll get to the meeting point at Freedom Square, which is accessible via public transport. The group size is limited (up to 10), ensuring personalized attention but also meaning booking early is recommended.

Authenticity & Authentic Experiences

The one review currently available scores a perfect 5/5, emphasizing that the class was “fantastic and amazing” and highlighting the friendly host who even treated the group to a tea ceremony—a bonus not officially part of the package but indicative of the warm hospitality you can expect.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This cooking class is best suited for food lovers eager to learn authentic Georgian recipes in a relaxed environment. If you’re curious about local ingredients and want to understand cultural significance, this class offers more than just cooking—it’s a mini culture. It’s also ideal if you’re attending with a small group or partner, as the intimate setting fosters interaction and personalized attention.

Travelers who enjoy tasting local wines and savoring freshly prepared dishes will find this experience especially rewarding. It’s a great way to connect with Georgia’s culinary traditions in a practical, memorable way—perfect for those who prefer hands-on activities over sightseeing tours.

The Sum Up

This Georgia cooking class offers an authentic taste of local cuisine in a warm, welcoming environment. The focus on Khinkali and Khachapuri gives you a clear window into two of Georgia’s most beloved dishes, and the expert guidance ensures you’ll leave with skills you can use back home.

The inclusion of local wine and detailed recipes adds to the value, making it more than just a cooking lesson—it becomes a cultural experience. The intimate group size means you’ll get plenty of attention, making it ideal for those who enjoy personalized experiences.

Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a curious traveler, this class provides an engaging, tasty, and memorable way to connect with Georgia’s culinary soul. Expect to walk away with new skills, a fuller belly, and a deeper appreciation for Georgian hospitality.

FAQs

Is transportation included in this experience?
No, transportation is not included. The meeting point is at Freedom Square, which is accessible by public transport or walking from many central locations in Tbilisi.

How long does the class last?
The class lasts approximately 2 hours, during which you’ll actively participate in preparing the dishes.

What dishes will I learn to make?
You will learn how to prepare Khinkali and Khachapuri in Imeretian style, including dough handling, filling, shaping, and cooking techniques.

Is the wine included?
Yes, a glass of white wine produced locally is included in the experience to enjoy during or after the cooking.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Cancellations within 24 hours are not refunded.

Will I receive recipes to cook at home?
Absolutely. Participants are provided with written recipes, enabling you to recreate your Georgian favorites later.

What size are the groups?
The experience is limited to a maximum of 10 travelers, ensuring personalized attention and a friendly atmosphere.