Word of Mouth: Tbilisi, Georgia
A convergence of culture and historic influence form this exquisite capital city
Defiant of expectation and classification, but rich with history and hospitality, the Georgian capital city of Tbilisi calls out to travelers as a burgeoning cultural nexus. A few hours’ drive from the Caucasus Mountains, as well as both the Black and Caspian Seas, Tbilisi’s position at the crux of Europe and Asia once played an important role in the Silk Road. Today, the city—and Georgian National Tourism Administration—invites visitors to indulge in culinary delights, design hotels, thoughtful museums and soothing sulphur baths. All of these experiences are quantifiably superb, but it’s the more intangible sensations—the way the afternoon light looks during a long walk or the feeling of riding the funicular to Mtatsminda Park‘s Ferris Wheel—that distance the city from so many others.
Dezerter Bazaar
An open-air market that covers more than 2,000 square meters, Dezerter Bazaar sells items that locals need, including various seasonal fruits and vegetables. It’s one of the largest in the city and its authenticity is an undeniable allure. Beyond produce, visitors can purchase lots of churchkhela, Georgia’s traditional grape must and hazelnut candy, which comes in the shape of a candle and is both sweet and inherently dense.
Georgian National Museum
An institution of innumerable treasures, the Georgian National Museum plays host to the Georgian Archaeological Treasury. Within, an entire nation’s history comes to life through ancient artifacts, Medieval treasures and a study on Caucasus biodiversity. One exhibition hall, referred to as the Museum of Soviet Occupation, offers insight on another fascinating chapter in the nation’s history.
The Leaning Clock Tower
What appears at first to be a toppling clock tower is in fact the eccentric vision of Georgian puppeteer Rezo Gabriadze. Each hour marks the appearance of several automatons who cycle through an animated, multi-level performance. The clock tower is also a signpost for the Gabriadze Theater, which features thoughtful puppet-based programming for audiences of all ages.
Metis
Georgian cuisine continues to grow in acclaim—everywhere. And Tbilisi has no shortage of phenomenal restaurants. Metis, however, is Franco-Georgian. And while it lands every single delicacy with perfection—from dumpling-like khinkalis to the various and utterly indulgent cheesy khachapuris—it’s the prime location and rooftop seating that make it a must-stop spot. They’ve also got an expansive roster of Georgian wines, beers and local mineral waters. In contrast, ღVino Underground is definitely the city’s best wine bar and, as the name implies, is located in a cozy cellar.
Hero image by David Graver
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