Mapshalia is one of the rarest places in Tbilisi, especially if you love Megrelian cuisine. It is a very small diner in a basement with huge-hearted hosts, “Elza Deida” (Aunt Elza) is the sweetest person you’ve ever met. She doesn’t speak English, but you will understand everything she says because she has a lot of love which spreads all the way to her guests.

Mapshalia is a Megrelian word which means Nightingale. The dishes and staff are from Samegrelo. The prices there are very cheap and the atmosphere is so good you can feel the real Megrelian soul. My favorite thing there are the Elarji and Gebjalia (hominy with fresh cheese kneaded in and a beautiful and very tasty Sulguni cheese in a fantastic sauce).

If you’re in Tbilisi and want to try some really good food (for vegetarians as well), you have to visit Mafshalia, you won’t regret it.