Georgian Food

There are many wonderful and unique foods and drinks to sample in Georgia. Notable among the refreshing, summer drinks are the homemade lemonade with ground mint leaves in it (every glass of which is different) and the bright green, bottled tarragon lemonade. Both are perfect for replacing vitamins and minerals lost from sweating in the hot sun.

Presentation is always unique, with menus wrapped in embroidered cloth (see above, with the lemonade), bills presented in wooden boxes, and food beautifully arranged on plates, even in the most modest pub or cafe where you wouldn't think it mattered.

There are the many types of bread (puri), typically baked in a deep, circular clay oven that gives the bread a distinct texture, color and flavor. People buy it fresh and warm daily from local hole-in-the-wall bakeries, and it is slightly salty, again useful for replacing salt lost from sweating. Delicious with iced coffee.

And then there is what is called the "ultimate cheese bread", khachapuri, which can take many forms, one of which is topped with a slightly runny fried egg. (I had to cook the egg part a bit more before I could eat it!) Add on some fresh fruits and vegetables and it can't get much better! Are you hungry yet?