The Tbilisi Market is truly a can’t-miss for food lovers, people interested in a more authentic experience in Georgia, proponents of slow food, real food and people who want to eat like our ancestors

The Dezerter Bazaar is a staggering 2,000 sq. meters and is where I go for inspiration on a regular basis. The flavors, aromas, colors, pace, noise, chaos, generosity, and hospitality all converge on this one market every day.

I focus on the food. Vendors sell everything you can imagine you need for the Georgian kitchen. It’s gritty, and full of people. The more you visit, the more of an expert you become on which vendors sell the best dried spices, pickles or Churchkhela. I visited the market within my first 24 hours in Tbilisi many moons ago, and it remains my favorite market in Georgia. You can witness the very unique Georgian bread baking process in earthenware ovens, drink wine from plastic jugs, and taste exceptionally delicious seasonal fruit.

Spring time is best for all the many varieties of plum. Markets are at the heart of every culture.