Tbilisi, Georgia (Photo: Envato)
Georgia, the country nestled at the crossroads of Europe and Asia, is a hidden gem for travelers looking for stunning landscapes, rich history, and a unique cultural mix. For kosher travelers, it’s an unexpected yet rewarding destination, offering both adventure and Jewish hospitality.
Georgia has been home to a Jewish community for over 2,600 years, making it one of the oldest Jewish diasporas in the world. From historic synagogues to active Chabad houses in Tbilisi and Batumi, Jewish life here is very much alive. Whether you're looking for kosher food, Shabbat meals, or a welcoming community, you’ll find it with ease.
Whether you're wandering through Tbilisi’s charming old streets or enjoying the Black Sea breeze in Batumi, Georgia offers an unforgettable travel experience—all while keeping kosher hassle-free.
Why Visit Georgia?
Georgia is a country of contrasts. It has everything from snow-capped mountains to lush vineyards, bustling city streets to quiet seaside retreats. The weather varies depending on the region—Tbilisi has a mild climate, with warm summers and cool winters, while Batumi, on the Black Sea coast, enjoys a more humid, subtropical feel.
A fun fact? Georgia claims to be the birthplace of wine, with a winemaking tradition that dates back over 8,000 years. While kosher wine options might be limited locally, you’ll still find plenty of incredible food and experiences waiting for you.
Now, let’s dive into what each city has to offer for the kosher traveler.
The Great Synagogue in Tbilisi (Photo: Tamar kurtanidze, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons)
Tbilisi: The Heart of Georgia
Tbilisi, the capital, is a fascinating blend of old and new, where historic churches and centuries-old synagogues stand alongside modern glass buildings. The city's charm lies in its mix of cultures, shaped by Persian, Russian, and Ottoman influences. Georgia has had a continuous Jewish presence for centuries, and you can still see its impact throughout the city. The Great Synagogue of Tbilisi, built in the early 1900s, remains an active place of worship, reflecting the deep-rooted Jewish history of the region.
As you wander through Tbilisi’s narrow alleyways, you’ll find colorful houses with wooden balconies, cozy courtyards, and vibrant street art that tell the story of its rich past. The Mtkvari River winds through the city, offering stunning riverside views, while cable cars and funiculars take visitors up the hills for breathtaking panoramas. Whether you're relaxing in historic bathhouses, exploring lively markets, or sipping coffee at a trendy café, Tbilisi effortlessly blends tradition with modernity, making it an unforgettable destination.
What to See in Tbilisi
- Old Tbilisi: Walk through the charming streets of the old city, filled with colorful balconies, historic architecture, and hidden courtyards.
- Narikala Fortress: Take a cable car up to this ancient fortress for breathtaking views of the city.
- Abanotubani Sulfur Baths: A unique experience where you can relax in natural hot sulfur water, just as travelers have done for centuries.
- The Great Synagogue of Tbilisi: This beautiful synagogue, built in the early 1900s, is still in use today and is a center for the Jewish community.
- Bridge of Peace: A striking modern bridge with a futuristic design, offering fantastic views over the Mtkvari River.
- Leaning Clock Tower: A quirky, fairy tale-like clock tower next to the Rezo Gabriadze Puppet Theatre, where you can watch the charming hourly puppet show.
- Dry Bridge Flea Market: A great place to hunt for Soviet-era antiques, handmade crafts, and vintage treasures.
- Mtatsminda Park: A fun spot with amusement rides and incredible panoramic views of the city from the top of the hill.
Narikala Fortress (Photo by: Supanut Arunoprayote, CC BY 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons)
Kosher Food & Chabad in Tbilisi
For those looking for kosher restaurants in Georgia, Chabad of Tbilisi operates Mendi’s, a kosher mehadrin restaurant, serving traditional Jewish cuisine and local flavors under strict supervision. The restaurant is open daily from 12 PM to midnight, offering a reliable kosher dining option in the city. Additionally, a kosher dairy kitchen operates at the Chabad House each morning, providing breakfast options for travelers.
Tbilisi is also home to the Cron Palace Kosher Hotel, offering a fully kosher-friendly stay with two on-site kosher restaurants—one meat and one dairy—providing guests with high-quality dining options. The hotel also offers kosher meal delivery throughout Tbilisi, making it even easier for visitors to enjoy kosher food wherever they are in the city.
Tbilisi is also home to the Cron Palace Kosher Hotel, offering a fully kosher-friendly stay with two on-site kosher restaurants—one meat and one dairy—providing guests with high-quality dining options. The hotel also offers kosher meal delivery throughout Tbilisi, making it even easier for visitors to enjoy kosher food wherever they are in the city.
The Chabad House is a hub for Jewish visitors, open every day to assist tourists with kosher food, minyan services, and Jewish resources. Whether you need help navigating the city, guidance on local Jewish sites, or a kosher list of supermarket products, Chabad provides essential support. They also organize Shabbat and holiday meals, bringing travelers together for a warm and welcoming experience.
For those staying in Tbilisi for Shabbat, there are at least a dozen hotels within walking distance of the Chabad House, making it easy to attend services and enjoy a fully kosher-friendly stay. Whether you’re looking for a full meal, Shabbat hospitality, or just some kosher essentials, Jewish travel to Georgia is more convenient than ever. Check out our guide to Kosher and Jewish Life in Tbilisi to help you plan your trip.
Batumi (Photo: Envato)
Batumi: Georgia’s Seaside Escape
Batumi, located on the Black Sea coast, is Georgia’s beachside resort city. Known for its modern skyline, palm-lined boulevards, and lively atmosphere, Batumi blends old-world charm with contemporary attractions. The city is famous for its vibrant nightlife, stunning seaside promenade, and a unique mix of European and Asian architectural styles. Strolling along Batumi Boulevard, you’ll find futuristic skyscrapers standing side by side with historic buildings, giving the city a distinctive character. Batumi is also home to lush parks, impressive sculptures, and a rich cultural scene with museums, theaters, and lively festivals throughout the year. Whether you're enjoying the warm Black Sea breeze, exploring botanical gardens, or discovering hidden gems in the old town, Batumi offers something for every traveler.
What to See in Batumi
- Batumi Boulevard: A beautiful seaside promenade where you can stroll, bike, or just relax and watch the sunset.
- Botanical Garden: One of the most impressive botanical gardens in the world, with incredible plant species from around the globe.
- Piazza Square: A charming European-style square with music, restaurants, and a lively atmosphere.
- Batumi Ferris Wheel: Located near the waterfront, this massive Ferris wheel offers breathtaking views of the city and the Black Sea.
- Europe Square: A stunning square that showcases Batumi’s blend of European and Georgian architectural influences, with fountains, sculptures, and historic buildings.
- Dancing Fountains at Lake Ardagani: A mesmerizing display of lights, music, and water choreography, perfect for an evening stroll.
- Gonio Fortress: A well-preserved ancient Roman fortress just outside Batumi, offering a glimpse into Georgia’s rich history.
Old lighthouse and a ferris wheel at the quay in Batumi (Photo by: Nikolai Bulykin, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons)
Kosher Food & Chabad in Batumi
Chabad of Batumi is a key resource for Jewish travel to Georgia, providing a welcoming hub for kosher travelers on Georgia’s Black Sea coast. Whether you’re looking for kosher dining, Shabbat meals, or Jewish community support, Chabad ensures a seamless experience.
For those seeking kosher restaurants in Batumi, Chabad operates a kosher meat restaurant, offering freshly prepared meals under strict supervision. Visitors can enjoy a variety of traditional Jewish dishes and local flavors, making it easier than ever to keep kosher while exploring the city.
In addition to Chabad’s restaurant, Batumi is home to the King Solomon kosher hotel featuring two on-site kosher restaurants—one meat and one dairy—both catering to travelers looking for high-quality kosher dining. This hotel provides a comfortable stay with kosher amenities, making it an ideal option for observant visitors.
In addition to Chabad’s restaurant, Batumi is home to the King Solomon kosher hotel featuring two on-site kosher restaurants—one meat and one dairy—both catering to travelers looking for high-quality kosher dining. This hotel provides a comfortable stay with kosher amenities, making it an ideal option for observant visitors.
Beyond dining, the Chabad House serves as a travel center, offering assistance with accommodations, transportation, and local attractions. Jewish travelers can also find a list of kosher-friendly products available in local supermarkets, ensuring they can stock up on essentials.
For those staying in Batumi over Shabbat, there are at least ten hotels within walking distance of the Chabad House, making it convenient to attend services and enjoy a restful, kosher-friendly stay. Whether you need a full kosher meal, travel guidance, or a warm Jewish community, Chabad of Batumi is there to help. Check out our guide to Kosher and Jewish Life in Batumi to help you plan your trip.
Dancing fountains Batumi (Photo by: Gytis, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons)
Final Thoughts
Georgia is an incredible destination for kosher travelers, offering a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. From the cobblestone streets of Tbilisi to the scenic shores of Batumi, Jewish visitors can explore with ease, knowing that kosher food and community support are readily available. With Chabad houses in both cities providing kosher restaurants, Shabbat meals, and local guidance, kosher travel in Georgia has never been more accessible.
From ancient Jewish sites to modern kosher conveniences, Georgia offers an unforgettable experience for observant travelers. Whether you're planning a family trip, a solo adventure, or a kosher group tour, Georgia is ready to welcome you. Check out our complete guide to kosher travel in Georgia and start planning today!
Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or a deep dive into Georgia’s Jewish heritage, this hidden gem has it all. Start planning your trip today and experience the best of Jewish travel to Georgia!