Gabriadze Cafe — Restaurant in Tbilisi

One of my absolute favorite places in the city. I already loved this legendary cafe (where the great Rezo Gabriadze himself could often be met at a corner table) long before the renovation, but its new version keeps all the warmth and charm and even more...

The decoration is totally unique: ceramic murals by Rezo are set right into the walls and the original puppets from his renowned productions are placed in special niches.

A separate joy for me was the music.The playlist is wonderfully curated, ranging from the celebrated Ishkhneli sisters’ city romances to Giya Kancheli’s unforgettable theme for 'Kin-dza-dza'—you could come here just to listen.

The updated menu brings the cooking to fine-dining level while still feeling true to original Georgian cuisine. My personal favorites are the khachapuri, mushrooms with herbs, and 'semichka' - grilled lamb ribs with pomegranate sauce, to say nothing of the desserts—especially Manana Tavadze’s cherry pie and lime pie...

During the day it is a café, but in the evening it is one of the most subtle dining universes you can find in the Georgian capital and not only. The inside space is the world of Rezo Gabriadze himself - it is like having the Clock Tower and theatre stage lighting up the dinner salon. Wonderful painted ceramics with fantasy scenes on the walkways and character marionettes in expressive scenes conjure a dream setting which prepare you to indulge. The menu is nothing short of delicious surprises. The appetisers are an exploration by themselves. We tried five of them and were thrilled by every single choice. The wine list has smart options for various preferences, from the more delicate to go with a light dinner to the more powerful to accompany some of the main courses. The young staff will make stiff waiters in x-star restaurants pale with their responsiveness, pertinent advice and unwavering smile. Don't...

During my first visit to Georgia in April 2025, I explored excellent restaurants in Tbilisi — Georgian cuisine is truly delicious — but the Gabriadze Café stood out as my favorite.

Its outdoor covered patio is the perfect spot to take in the lively atmosphere around the Gabriadze Theatre’s automaton clock, while still enough away from the crowd to quietly enjoy a coffee and pastry—or perhaps a glass of wine.

Inside, the café is elegantly and uniquely designed –using decorative elements created by the late Rezo Gabriadze – creating a warm, welcoming space that feels like home. It’s the kind of place that invites you to settle in for a leisurely lunch or dinner.

The food is refined and, in my experience, the best I had in Tbilisi: I especially loved their eggplant and walnut salad, the pkhali, and the unforgettable kindzmari.

Oh, and the staff is...