By Janet Ekstract, ISTANBUL- For those who are tired of conventional cuisine, Tflisi Restaurant in Bomonti, is a welcome change from typical Turkish fare and fast food in Istanbul. What makes Tflisi a standout choice for brunch, lunch or dinner is because the cuisine is versatile, light filling but above all, homemade. With its charming, peaceful and cozy ambiance, Tflisi is the perfect place for an intimate dinner, a party, friends’ night out or even a marriage proposal. But the most wonderful thing about cuisine from Georgia is the variety and subtle flavors – plus there is something for everyone’s tastes. At Tflisi, all the food is made with care, so apparent as the dishes are served. It feels as if the warmth of the aunts, grandmothers and mothers of the world are serving you and that you are being fed with love. Each table has a traditional Georgian tablecloth and the restaurant itself is housed in a historical building, perhaps more than a hundred years old. Traditional Georgian objects adorn the wall where a fireplace might have been and tables though visible, offer a sense of privacy not available in most restuarants.
Georgian cuisine is special because of its variety of dishes that include hearty soups with meat and grain, delicate meat rolls with sour cream, fresh pickled vegetables, homemade sourdough bread and the Georgian specialty, meat pie as well as the famous dumplings known as khinkali with cheese, meat or veggies. There are a plethora of other dishes on the menu, including unique desserts and special drinks from Georgia. Tflisi is so popular that it’s wise to make a reservation or you may not find a table. One thing you can count on is that you will return here again and again, not just for the food but for the magic that it exudes, the ample portions and the superb taste One thing is certain, you will leave Tflisi with a smile.
