Strong, seductive scents run rampant on the corner of Kings Highway and East 8th Street in Brooklyn – and they aren’t coming from the Mirage Diner. Instead, across the street and a few doors down, under a pale, pink awning rests a jewel of surprisingly ethnic cooking over a brewing melting pot.
Although relatively small, with a maximum capacity not quite reaching 50, Tbilisi, located at 811 Kings Highway features decidedly classy décor. Artful murals stretch the length of its walls, depicting traditional imagery of men donned in folk uniforms, serene country sides and joyous gatherings equipped with customary drinking horns – the khantsi.
This establishment has a decidedly plum feel, as its tablecloths match the chairs behind them, only contrasted by the stark white of the pristine, elegant lap-napkins.
While the surroundings can easily steal a weary wanderer’s affection, the experience only improves with taste, as some of its more traditional dishes are simply to die for.
An ideal way to begin this sensory paradise is through the Georgian salad. A mysterious cousin to the time-honored Greek, it contains all the requisite vegetables and feta cheeses with a little special, indeterminable something – a highly flavorful, foreign herb. The waiters claim ignorance to its identity, however, effectively safeguarding the cultural secret.
A wise decision, as the uniquely mouthwatering appetizer only mercilessly whets the pallet for the warm goodies to come.
An official appetizer, although decidedly large, is the undeniably yummy Khachapuri. A fried pastry composed chiefly of melted cheeses, it easily ranks as one of its top choices and can readily stand toe-to-toe with most quiches. 1xbet.com Incidentally, the recipe for this and other traditional dishes is available on their website, www.tbilisiny.com.
Unfortunately, no word on that secret salad ingredient.
Blast.
Moving on to the entrées, a distinctly traditional choice is the Khinkali, Georgia’s answer to dumplings. While the dough is somewhat thicker than in its Chinese equivalent, the meat within is undeniably juicy. A mixture of beef, lamb and pork, the minced morsel is decidedly succulent and a must for any visitor to this oft-overlooked eatery.
Not all choices are winners, however, such as the Chaqapuli, a dish consisting of veal, tarragon and other herbs in gravy. While the liquid base is scrumptious, the meat tends to be fatty. Similarly, the best part of Chanakhi, a type of lamb stew is the delightful clay pot in which it’s served. Otherwise, it is completely unremarkable. The pot is charming, though – providing an air of simultaneous authenticity and convenience.
The bright side is that the acclaimed pot makes an appearance in another entrée, the Red Beans, the Georgian equivalent of chili. Easily the most economic way to a full stomach, the dish is highly filling and surprisingly delicious. The beans are spicy, though tender and perfectly moist.
Easily the most delectable selection is that of the wine. Renowned for its distinct, velvety taste, Georgian wine tends toward the semi-sweet, though its unique flavor is still perfectly compatible with the domain of the table wines. Listed on the menu, are the Khvanchkara, Kindzmarauli and Alazani, three of the most popular varieties.
Here comes the best part, though: this restaurant provides the option of B.Y.O.B. That’s right. Patrons are allowed to bring their own alcoholic beverages, even if they are sold at Tbilisi.
In economic times like these, that kind of service is only welcome – with open arms and grateful wallets.
Speaking of service: although the wait staff at Tbilisi is rather small, it is highly competent and amiable. Politely attentive without bordering on hovering, the handful of attendants more than effectively fulfill their roles. A potential drawback, however, lies in the communication with English-speaking parties, as the menu is poorly-translated and the restaurant is not generally geared toward the average American public.
On Friday and Saturday nights, Tbilisi doubles as a night club, so quiet, conversational evenings are out. If that is not a problem, however, feel free to pick up your dancing shoes and engage in the festivities. طريقة لعبة القمار
Overall, the distinct experience at Tbilisi is more than worth at least a casual visit, if not a weekly sensory soirée. Its modest prices, averaging in the high teens are more than reasonable for a place that channels the heart, aroma and flavor of old Tbilisi. لعبة كازينو
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