Cooking Class of Khinkali and Khachapuri in Tbilisi

If you’re craving a taste of Georgia beyond the usual tourist fare, this cooking class in Tbilisi offers a delightful, practical immersion into two of the country’s most beloved dishes—Khinkali and Khachapuri in Imeretian style. Hosted in a cozy culinary studio, this experience promises more than just recipes; it’s an opportunity to learn real skills, understand local ingredients, and enjoy some warm hospitality.

From the moment you step into this intimate setting, you’ll appreciate the authentic atmosphere and the chance to cook alongside passionate local instructors. Two highlights that stand out are the focus on handmade dough techniques and the inclusion of local wine, which perfectly complements the dishes. The main consideration? The class is quite short—about two hours—so you’ll want to focus on the essentials.

This experience is ideal for food lovers eager to get hands-on with Georgian cuisine, travelers interested in authentic local interactions, and those who appreciate a mix of culinary skill-building and cultural insight. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned home cook, you’ll find value in the approachable, friendly environment.

Key Points

• Authentic recipes for Khinkali and Imeretian Khachapuri taught by local chefs
• Hands-on dough shaping and filling techniques that ensure perfect results
• Includes a glass of Georgian white wine and bottled water to enjoy during and after cooking
• Recipe handouts enable you to recreate these dishes at home
• Limited group size (up to 10 travelers) for personalized attention
• Convivial atmosphere in a cozy, homey culinary studio in Tbilisi

What to Expect from the Georgian Cooking Class

This two-hour cooking class combines practical lessons with a friendly, informal setting. Located conveniently in the heart of Tbilisi near Freedom Square, the studio is designed to feel like a home kitchen, fostering a relaxed learning environment. The host, a passionate local chef, guides you step-by-step through the process of making Khinkali, those savory Georgian dumplings, and Khachapuri, the cheesy bread that’s practically a national symbol.

The Khinkali Experience: Mastering a Georgian Classic

Khinkali is often called Georgia’s national dish, and for good reason. It’s hearty, flavorful, and fun to make. The session begins with an introduction to choosing the right ingredients—fresh flour, high-quality meat, and healing broth that makes the filling so juicy. You’ll learn how to knead and roll the dough, a skill that’s surprisingly simple but requires a little guidance.

What makes this class stand out is the focus on fixing khinkali so they don’t fall apart. Our instructor emphasizes the importance of proper dough sealing and filling technique, which really improves the final product. As you fill and shape the dumplings, you’ll also discover how to incorporate the broth inside—an essential element that makes khinkali so satisfying.

The instructor’s tips are practical: “Turn your khinkali correctly so they don’t fall apart when cooking,” they say, a challenge many first-timers face. After cooking, you get to enjoy your own creations along with a glass of Georgian white wine—a perfect pairing to refresh the palate.

The Khachapuri in Imeretian Style: Cheesy Perfection

Next, the class moves on to Khachapuri, a cheese-filled bread beloved across Georgia. The instructor demonstrates how to craft the dough, ensuring it’s even and soft, and backs up this process with tips on selecting the best cheese for that signature stretchy, melty texture.

The Imeretian style is characterized by its boat-shaped bread filled with cheese, and you’ll learn how to form it properly, ensuring a crispy crust and gooey interior. The chef also shares some ideas on creative decoration, making this dish as visually appealing as it is delicious.

By the end of the lesson, you’ll have a solid understanding of the techniques involved—knowledge that makes recreating this iconic dish at home much easier—and you’ll leave with a written recipe so you can impress friends and family back home.

The Experience Afterward

Post-cooking, it’s not just about eating your own creations. The experience concludes with tasting the dishes, complemented by bottled water and the included white wine, which helps bring out the flavors. You’ll also receive a printed recipe for both khinkali and khachapuri, so the lessons don’t end when you leave.

Analyzing the Value

At $98 per person, this class offers good value—especially considering the inclusion of two authentic Georgian dishes, wine, and personalized instruction in a small group setting. The intimate size (max 10 travelers) ensures plenty of attention from the host, which is crucial when trying to master delicate dough techniques.

The experience is about more than recipes; it offers insight into Georgian culinary traditions and a chance to interact meaningfully with local hosts. Many reviews highlight the warmth and friendliness of the organizer, who even treated guests to a traditional tea ceremony, adding a cultural touch.

While transportation isn’t included, the meeting point is easily accessible near public transportation. The class timing is flexible enough to fit into a busy sightseeing schedule, making it a practical addition to your Tbilisi itinerary.

Why Travelers Love It

Reviewers consistently praise the friendly atmosphere—”the organizer was super friendly”—and the quality of the food. One guest described it as “one of the best experiences we’ve had,” emphasizing how the dishes turned out to be “fantastic and amazing.” The inclusion of wine and the chance to learn authentic cooking techniques make it a memorable cultural highlight.

Possible Drawbacks

The main consideration is the duration—about two hours—which is sufficient for recipes, but you won’t master the dishes in one sitting. Also, since the class is small, it fills up quickly, so booking in advance is advisable.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour Most?

This class is perfect for foodies eager to learn how to make iconic Georgian dishes themselves. It’s equally suited for cultural travelers who want a deeper understanding of local cuisine and hospitality. Couples, small groups, and solo travelers will all appreciate the friendly, informal atmosphere.

If you’re after a hands-on experience that combines practical skills, delicious food, and a touch of Georgian hospitality—all in a cozy setting—this class ticks those boxes with style.

Final Thoughts

For anyone wanting to go beyond sightseeing and get a taste of Georgia’s culinary soul, this khinkali and khachapuri cooking class offers a genuine, approachable experience. You’ll learn techniques that demystify these iconic dishes, while enjoying local wine and warm company. It’s a chance to bring a piece of Georgia home—literally—by mastering recipes that are the heartbeat of Georgian hospitality.

Whether you’re a culinary novice or an experienced cook, the friendly instruction and authentic flavors make this a worthwhile addition to your Tbilisi adventure. You’ll leave not just with recipes, but with new skills, memories, and a craving for more Georgian food.

FAQs

Is transportation included? No, transportation isn’t included, but the meeting point is near public transit, making it easy to reach.

Can I cancel if I change my mind? Yes, you can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the class starts, receiving a full refund.

What is the group size? The class is limited to a maximum of 10 travelers, ensuring a personalized experience.

Is there alcohol included? Yes, a glass of Georgian white wine is included, perfect for pairing with your dishes.

Will I get recipes to take home? Yes, you’ll receive a written recipe for both khinkali and khachapuri.

Is this suitable for beginners? Absolutely. The class is designed to be approachable, and the instructor guides you through each step, making it accessible for all skill levels.

This hands-on cooking experience in Tbilisi balances practical skills, culture, and delicious food, making it an excellent choice for anyone eager to explore Georgia’s culinary traditions firsthand.