If you, like us, are tired of the four walls of home; if you, like us, are fed up trying to decide which meal to cook next, then I have some great news: the Georgian government has eased the lockdown and allowed restaurants with outdoor seating to open for service. That said, not all of your favorite pre-COVID locales will ever be back, and some have to wait for the next stage when we’re allowed back indoors (which may be a while coming yet!), but still- the chance to eat out, at a clean table (rather than a bench in a park opposite) is too good not to celebrate. Over a spread of articles, we’ll be letting you know where to go for some delicious, fresh, just-out-of-the-oven food that was cooked by someone else, served on plates that will be washed up by someone else, sitting at a table with a friend or two, served by smiling staff eager to make your afternoon special. Please remember, dear readers, that for your health and that of others, wear a fresh mask when out-and-about, and keep your distance! Bon appetit!
In the first of our list of recommendations, we contacted the big hotels, who certainly have the budget to ensure sanitary norms are kept, and which are guaranteed to serve up some real treats. Note, some hotels are only offering restaurant visits (inside and out on terraces) to those staying with them, and in those cases they have come up with some very tempting day offers. Check them out below.
RADISSON BLU IVERIA HOTEL
From February 15, “Iveria Terrace” and the terrace of the Asian Fusion restaurant “Umami” will open its doors to the public. Head along with those friends you missed most to the Radisson Blu Iveria Hotel in the heart of Tbilisi to be treated to some of the best genuine Italian and Asian dishes in the city, alongside a refreshing cocktail or two or some of their delicious free Glintwein.
Umami is indisputably the strongest player in the city in the field of South-Asian food, and the perfect place in Tbilisi to eat sushi. From the quality of products to the way of serving them, from the table set-up to the sincerity of the waiters’ smiles, it sets a very high standard.
The chef is from the Philippines, and he knows the whole South-Asian region very well. Our top picks are crab tempura, red curry with prawns and chilli pork ramen, while it’s simply impossible to name the best rolls. Even the unbeatable classics such as California will open up a bouquet of taste on your palates.
Daily from 11:00 to 20:00 (except weekends)
Radisson Blu Iveria, 1 Republic Sq., Tbilisi
(+995) 322 40 22 00
https://www.radissonblu.com/en/hotel-tbilisi/restaurants
MERCURE TBILISI OLD TOWN
ASADO Steakhouse is open for use by day guests registered at the hotel. Take advantage of the voucher offer for a day of relaxation and top quality nosh!
Pay 49 GEL for two people for a room 8am – 8pm, and get free access to the gym and parking, and 39 GEL off a meal at ASADO Steakhouse. We recommend you put that voucher towards a “Meater” – a one-meter board delivered with 1 tenderloin, 1 sirloin, 1 ribeye, 1 T-bone, 4 sides and 4 sauces, all cooked by Italian Chef Enzo Neri and his team. All that for 189 GEL, plus a complimentary bottle of red wine! What better way to celebrate being out?!
ASADO Steakhouse proudly claims to buy meat locally, dry-age it themselves for up to 28 days, and grill it on a Josper, guaranteeing a dream for all meat-lovers. The restaurant itself offers a fresh and natural interior of mixed wood and fabric, with plants and smiling staff ready to serve you and your friends with all that old hospitality we missed!
Daily from 12:00-21:00
9 Vakhtang Gorgasali St, Tbilisi
(+995) 32 200 60 60
https://linkhapp.ee/asado
SHERATON GRAND METEKHI PALACE
For 180 GEL, two of you can enjoy a room at this prestigious hotel from 9 am to 8pm, with a voucher for 50 GEL towards food and beverages.
Alternatively, the incredible roof-top ATI terrace will be open to the public from 5pm to 9pm starting February 15, giving you and a few loved ones the chance to enjoy sunset and the twinkling of the city lights before curfew!
Inspired by Tbilisi’s vibrant heritage, ATI gives you a chance to experience a modern Georgian Grill and a youthful take on Georgian cuisine, architecture, and art. Presentation is everything here, and service is just the right amount of friendly and attentive as you snuggle into the overstuffed chairs for a special afternoon out with friends, and a cocktail or two.
Daily 5pm to 9pm
20 Telavi Street, Tbilisi
(+995) 32 277 20 20
TIFLIS VERANDA
Another one not serving the public, but open to hotel guests. Here, you can get a room from 10am to 8pm for 55 GEL, of which 45 GEL is ready to put towards your in-house restaurant meal. If you decide to stay the night, you’ll pay 200 GEL and get 140 GEL towards your restaurant bill.
Surrounded by breathtaking views of the city’s most important sightseeing and historical and cultural monuments, Tiflis Veranda creates a perfect atmosphere to enjoy a glass of the best Georgian wine or delicious brand cocktails, or even for a cup of its famous cappuccino.
Hotel Tiflis Palace Rooftop, 3 Gorgasali St., Tbilisi
(+995) 577202448 | 322000245
f&b@tiflispalace.ge | tiflisveranda@tiflispalace.ge
TBILISI MARRIOTT
Tbilisi Marriott on Rustaveli Avenue is opening its Outdoor Patio to the public from February 15. They have no special offers this week, but they have plans for Mother’s Day on March 3, so keep your eyes on their Facebook page for updates!
Offering top quality service, the Outdoor Patio is located in the center courtyard on the ground floor of the hotel, with a fresh, classic design and airy, modern feel as you dine away from the bustle of the city.
Daily 10 am – 8pm
13 Rustaveli Avenue, Tbilisi
(+995) 32 277 92 00
www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/tbsmc-tbilisi-marriott-hotel
With all the above, it’s best to check their Facebook pages for the latest updates regarding opening times and special offers- we all well know that things can change at a drop of a facemask these days!
