Best Cafes in Tbilisi
Tbilisi’s charm isn’t just in its historical landmarks or bustling streets—it’s also in its thriving café culture. During my visit, I explored some of the city’s most modern and inviting coffee spots, especially in the area between Stamba and the university. FEven though this area doesn’t boast many tourist attractions, it’s worth stopping by these spots for a combination of great coffee and stylish ambiance. Among the options I’ve noted, Stories, Hurma, Pulp, and No More Mondays are all in this area. I didn’t sit in the café section of TheySaidBooks, as it felt a bit too dark for my taste. However, if you enjoy the book-café vibe, it could be a nice alternative.
On Sunday, I planned to visit Slink, one of the cafes near Fabrika Hostel. Contrary to my friend’s recommendation of it being a peaceful spot, I found it full and buzzing with a party-like atmosphere. Keep in mind, Tbilisi takes on a completely different vibe when the weather gets warmer. So, if you’re reading guides from visitors who went in winter, the experience in summer might vary significantly. Note that it was closed on Monday, which wasn’t reflected on Google Maps.
I also stopped by Madame Choux Cafe, where my friends were already seated. Although I didn’t try anything myself, I appreciated the calm and modern courtyard setting. However, my friends weren’t particularly impressed with the tiramisu they ordered.
Lastly, let me highlight that credit cards were accepted everywhere I visited. I managed to explore the entire city without needing to exchange even a single coin, which made the trip very convenient.
Stories Cafe
I stumbled upon Stories café while heading to Mziuri Park with the pride of having completed all the marked places on my last day. I saw it across the street and I thought, “Oh, how beautiful it looks like,” and wrote down its name. When I passed by it on the way back again, I couldn’t resist stopping by on my way back for a coffee.
It draws attention with its charming structure in beige tones and being elevated than the road level. The café’s tables were adorned with flowers, and the staff, particularly the friendly woman who served me, radiated positive energy. Plus, the oat milk cappuccino I ordered was the best I’ve had in a while. I’d recommend Stories for its welcoming atmosphere and delicious coffee.
Hurma Cafe
Another place from my last day discoveries which is also a local recommendation. Despite its name being in Georgian on the entrance, I guessed it was Hurma and asked the staff when I went in. Surprisingly, it turned out to be a modern spot rather than the authentic place I expected.
Hurma’s avocado pesto sandwich might be the best thing I ate in Tbilisi, for one thing it didn’t have coriander in it :)) The atmosphere was bright, with a designated corner for working. I noticed a mirror facing the chairs away from the road, allowing everyone to either people-watch or check themselves out. Although there weren’t many outdoor tables, I enjoyed my time there, especially the music.
Linville
Are you a fan of vintage vibes? If so, you’ve got to check out Linville. From the décor to the cups, this place oozes vintage charm. As soon as you spot the drawing of two girls on the door, you know you’re in for something special. Plus, they offer Turkish coffee on the menu, and it’s surprisingly good. And let’s not forget about the brownie – it comes with ice cream and it’s absolutely delicious.
Every room is decked out with unique vintage decorations, creating a cozy and harmonious atmosphere. From the armchairs to the TV-shaped aquarium, every detail adds to the charm. Linville was one of those cafes that I’m so glad I’ve visited. I ended up spending a good chunk of time there, feeling inspired enough to jot down a few thoughts. While they offer more than just desserts and coffee – with food options on the menu – I personally stuck to indulging in the sweet treats.
Prospero’s Books & Cafe
Prospero’s Books & Cafe is a charming spot with a bookstore and café in a cozy courtyard. Though I didn’t stay for coffee since I just had a coffee in Kvartz, the café had a peaceful vibe with its light decorations and calm morning atmosphere.
I highly recommend exploring the bookstore side of Prospero’s. They have a great selection of books in English, and you might even find some lovely gifts among their offerings. Plus, the teddy bear featured on the home page of this article is actually from Prospero’s Books & Cafe.
Pulp
Pulp was bustling when I visited, even on a Monday. The style of the customers had a European vibe, I can tell that most of them were expats. Since having 2 cups of coffee and a beer, I didn’t have room for anything to drink, I opted for a peppery and salty cake, it wasn’t bad. Their desserts, however, looked amazing 🙁 I wish I had space in my stomach.
The outdoor seating was limited to two benches and a few cozy tables under the tree creating a perfect atmosphere to socialize. Their beverage options are somewhat limited to coffee, I think the coffee must be so good given the cafe’s popularity.
Cafe Mziuri
Café Mziuri, nestled within the park, offers a serene ambiance that I found quite enchanting. Their music selection, with curated playlists of jazz and mellow pop, added to the peaceful atmosphere—I even discovered some tracks that I still enjoy at home.
During my visit, I had the chance to try the Georgian craft beer, Black Lion, which isn’t widely available elsewhere, and it was delightful. Being conveniently located near universities and business centers, it attracts a diverse crowd, including many expats. From what I can sense from photos, it seems like a lovely spot to unwind in the evenings.
The Museum
The Museum café, located within the Georgian Museum of Fine Arts, welcomes visitors whether or not they’re exploring the museum. Its walls are adorned with vibrant photographs and writings, creating an artistic atmosphere. The dessert display is particularly striking, and though I opted for a small pistachio choux, it was tasty, though not exceptional. The cappuccino didn’t quite meet my expectations, but the café itself, resembling a mini museum with unique touches like the eye-shaped mirror in the restroom, offers a pleasant escape to relax and unwind.
No More Mondays
No More Mondays may sound enticing, but its interior is somewhat small, and the outdoor seating options are either uncomfortably close to pedestrians or facing the less appealing side of the street, near the garbage bin. This was a bit disappointing for me. However, their breakfast offering of hummus on bread helped lift my spirits. While it may not have been the best hummus breakfast I’ve ever had, it was still delicious. As for the coffee, it was decent, albeit a tad too strong for my liking.
Kvartz Cafe
The popular café where your portrait is drawn on the coffee cup – a favorite among influencers. While the resemblance of the drawing to the actual person might be up for debate, it’s still a charming keepsake from your time in Tbilisi. The café itself is quite petite. Perhaps because I visited on a Saturday morning, it was surprisingly empty. I didn’t have to wait in line at all. Unfortunately, if you’re looking for anything to eat, you’ll be out of luck as the options are limited. However, the coffee itself is not bad at all.
Leila Cafe
Leila Cafe is located in the center in the Old Town. It seemed like a bigger and more beautiful in the photos, but upon stepping inside, I was slightly disappointed. While the wall decorations did add a unique ambiance, overall, I felt it was just alright. I ordered Turkish coffee and apple pie, hoping for a taste reminiscent of those in Amsterdam. Although it didn’t quite live up to that standard, it wasn’t bad either. One thing worth mentioning is the quality of their cups and plates – they were quite nice.
Uli-Croissant Cafe
I chose Uli for croissants on my first morning. I can say that the main reason for my choice was the teddy bears they put on the benches. There are many types of croissants, especially sweet options. I chose the classic, it was an average croissant, I guess one expects the best from a place dedicated only to croissants.
Bok-Art Souvenir Store & Cafe
By chance, I stumbled upon a souvenir shop situated at the start of the Betlemi Stairs while making my descent. Inside, I found a treasure trove of handmade items and charming magnets.
What caught my eye was their balcony, cleverly converted into a café. Though it seemed they only served beverages, the view and ambiance were delightful. Despite my desire to linger and relax, my stomach was already full, so I reluctantly passed on the opportunity to sit down. Nonetheless, it certainly seemed like a spot worth returning to for a moment of respite.
