Traveling is an odyssey that often leads us to the most unexpected of places, from grand monuments to hidden trails, but sometimes, it’s the humble eateries that steal our hearts. As perpetual nomads, we have dined in countless spots around the globe, from the high-end Michelin-star restaurants to the no-frills street stalls. Yet, nothing has captured our taste buds and souls quite like Sabatono in Tbilisi, Georgia.
Nestled in a cozy corner of Tbilisi, Georgia’s charming capital, Sabatono is a modest, 11-table restaurant that opens its doors around 10:30 AM. Don’t be fooled by the small footprint; what it lacks in size, it makes up for in flavors, ambiance, and the sheer warmth of its staff. From our very first visit, the owner took a special liking to us. Maybe it was our enthusiasm for Georgian cuisine, or perhaps it’s just their nature to treat guests like family; either way, we felt at home immediately.
Sabatono doesn’t just serve food; it serves Georgia on a plate. A plate loaded with rich, hearty, and oh-so-delicious local dishes like megrelian kharcho, ajapsandali (eggplant stew), lobios (bean stew), kachapuri (cheese-filled bread), eggplant with walnut, khinkali (meat dumplings) and so many other delicious dishes. Each bite takes you through an evocative journey, evoking rustic kitchens, mountainous landscapes, and the indomitable Georgian spirit.
Let’s talk about the wine because the local semi-sweet wine at Sabatono is an experience in itself. You won’t find any factory-made, commercial-bottled wine here. No, the wine is sourced from local vintners who still believe in the art of winemaking, delivering their liquid gold in simple, cold, reusable bottles. We’d dare say it’s the best in the world, and after a glass or two, you’ll find yourself echoing our sentiments.
Though some of the staff at Sabatono speak a smattering of English, the universal language spoken here is that of hospitality. You might not understand every word said, but their actions speak loud and clear: “Gamarjos,” or cheers to you! Come early to get a table because once the locals start pouring in, there’s no guarantee you’ll find a spot.
We have returned to Tbilisi three times now, and every single visit has found us at Sabatono. We can’t help it. When you find a place that not only tantalizes your palate but also nourishes your soul, it’s hard to stay away.
If you’re ever in Tbilisi, we wholeheartedly recommend making Sabatono a must-visit on your itinerary. Come for the food, stay for the wine, and leave with a heart full of memories and perhaps a new friend or two. Because in this restaurant gem, every guest is family, and every meal is a homecoming.
Gamarjos! Cheers to good food, great wine, and the kind of travel experiences that make life worth living!