Mapshalia
მაფშალია
A budget basement eatery near Marjanishvili, famous for its spicy Samegrelo dishes and highly recommended by locals.
Hidden in the basement of 137 Aghmashenebeli Avenue, near the Marjanishvili area, Mapshalia still retains its 1980s-style decor, with the hostess Aunt Elza being the face of the shop. It specializes in western Samegrelo flavors: spicy beef walnut soup Kharcho, stretchy cornmeal porridge Elarji, mint cheese rolls Gebzhalia, and Kupati sausage served with Ghomi are all worth ordering. Main courses are inexpensive, averaging about 20 GEL per person. Reservations are not accepted, and seats are tight during lunch, so it is best to arrive early. The owner does not speak English, and it is reported that only cash is accepted, so it is best to bring cash.
Opening hours
Daily approx. 10:00–22:00
Nearby sights
- Dezerter Bazaar
- Fabrika
- Tbilisi Opera and Ballet Theatre
- Dry Bridge Market
- Mtatsminda Pantheon
- Georgian National Museum (Simon Janashia Museum)
- Rustaveli Avenue
- Freedom Square