Machakhela & Samikitno
Experience the heart of Georgian cuisine with authentic dishes, generous portions, and unbeatable prices in a comfortable setting.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Blue hour photography, calmer galleries
Machakhela & Samikitno
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Experience the heart of Georgian cuisine with authentic dishes, generous portions, and unbeatable prices in a comfortable setting.
"Delicious food for a low price, a must-visit in Tbilisi!"
Beware of VAT Charges
Check your bill carefully for any unexpected 15% VAT charges added to your total.
Try the Khinkali
Don't miss the delicious and juicy traditional Georgian dumplings, a must-try item.
Quick Facts
Cuisine
Georgian
Price
Budget/Mid-range
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Authentic Georgian Flavors
Savor generous portions of traditional Georgian dishes like Khinkali and Khachapuri, expertly prepared and affordably priced.
Historic Old Tbilisi Ambiance
Enjoy a comfortable and pleasant atmosphere, especially at the Samikitno location with views of Metekhi church.
Budget-Friendly Feast
Experience a wide range of delicious Georgian cuisine at very low prices, making it a great value for travelers.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Menu
Most Popular Items
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Beware of VAT Charges
Check your bill carefully for any unexpected 15% VAT charges added to your total.
Try the Khinkali
Don't miss the delicious and juicy traditional Georgian dumplings, a must-try item.
Off-Peak Dining
Visit during less busy times to avoid crowds and ensure quicker service.
Service Varies
While some staff are friendly, others can be inattentive or rude. Be patient.
Tips
from all over the internet
Beware of VAT Charges
Check your bill carefully for any unexpected 15% VAT charges added to your total.
Try the Khinkali
Don't miss the delicious and juicy traditional Georgian dumplings, a must-try item.
Off-Peak Dining
Visit during less busy times to avoid crowds and ensure quicker service.
Service Varies
While some staff are friendly, others can be inattentive or rude. Be patient.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Machakhela & Samikitno offers a compelling taste of authentic Georgian cuisine at remarkably affordable prices, with generous portions and well-presented dishes. While many praise the food quality and value, some diners have experienced issues with inconsistent service and confusing billing practices. The ambiance is generally described as comfortable, particularly at the Old Tbilisi location.
"We loved the food! The dishes are generous and well presented. The service was good and they comply with hygiene regulations for the pandemic."
Alma Ama
"The food was fine though the Georgian dishes were quite average but the customer service could use some improvement with a bit more attention to service."
RM
"My experience here from visit with family was awful. The food was really bad. The service was even worse. They told us that it takes up to 45 min for hot dishes to be served, ok. Then they forgot to bring us 3 dishes that we ordered. When I asked about it, the waiter told that they are already processed and were not forgotten, therefore it is impossible to cancel them from the order. Then it took not less then 30 min to bring them (when the waiter previously told about 2-3 minutes). I asked to prepare these dishes for take away, so they charged 2 Lari for single use container and did not notice about it, I found it later in the bill. The bill includes 15% extra charge for service and they don't even ask if you want to pay it. When I asked about it, the waiter said it is not tip, but kind of tax. In the menu these 15% are clearly mentioned as service. I tried to ask the manager, who also claimed that these 15% are not a tip, and the rest of conversation about my claims was in a similar manner."
Elena Prudnikov
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
The most popular dishes are Khinkali (traditional Georgian dumplings) and Khachapuri (cheese-filled bread).
Yes, the restaurants are known for offering authentic Georgian dishes at very low prices, making them budget-friendly.
The atmosphere is described as comfortable and pleasant, especially at the Samikitno location in Old Tbilisi which offers views.
Some customers have reported issues with 15% VAT charges being added to the bill, which can be confusing. It's advisable to check your receipt carefully.
Service can be inconsistent. While some staff are friendly and attentive, others have been described as inattentive or rude.
Some reviews mention that the restaurant does not offer Wi-Fi, which may be inconvenient for some guests.
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Street food in Tbilisi – a Guide for Tourists
If you liked khachapuri in Machakhela, you should definitely visit another restaurant of the same chain Samikitno-Machakhela that offers large, and, what is more important, delicious range of real Georgian dishes. The restaurant is located in the city centre, on Freedom Square: it is the ideal place for lunch during your walk through the city. Regardless of the location of the restaurant and its popularity, the prices are available for the budget traveller.
Where To Eat in Tbilisi: Best Restaurants For All Budgets
In the heart of Old Tbilisi and overlooking Metekhi church, Samikitno is one of the best cheap restaurants in Tbilisi, serving delicious food at very low prices. This restaurant is always packed with locals and tourists alike, so sometimes it’s hard to get a table. This is a great place to try some khinkali, a traditional Georgian dumpling.
The best restaurants in Tbilisi. Tbilisi cafes and restaurants. If you know worthy places in Tbilisi, I will be grateful for your recommendations.
Excursions in the old city involve long walks, so it is very convenient to drop in to Samikitno Machakhela for breakfast, lunch and dinner. You do not have to waste time on the road, as the cafe is within walking distance. By the way, having decided to have breakfast in this institution, order Turkish coffee, it is brewed amazingly here.
The 50 Best Restaurants in Tbilisi for 2023: Your Ultimate Georgian Food Guide
Samikitno-Machakhela: Samikitno is absolutely everywhere in Tbilisi, including right on Liberty Square and on the main street in the Old Town. Think of it as the Georgian equivalent to Applebee’s: fast, affordable, family friendly sit-down dining. What it lacks in taste, it makes up for in consistency and convenience.
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