Sazandari

Sazandari – A Taste of Traditional Georgia in Batumi‘s Old Town

Overview

Located in a residential building on Zurab Gorgiladze Street in Batumi‘s historic old neighbourhood, Sazandari is a colourful and welcoming restaurant that offers guests a deep dive into traditional Georgian cuisine and culture. From the moment you arrive, the unique décor – an entrance styled like an old wooden fence with stones and an interior reminiscent of a cosy village hut – transports you to a rustic Georgian farmhouse. The atmosphere is lively, often filled with the sound of live folk music played by wandering musicians. Famous for its huge, sharable portions and authentic flavours, Sazandari is a favourite among both local residents and travellers looking for a memorable and budget-friendly meal.

Location & Contact

Operating Hours

💡 The restaurant is open every day from morning until late at night, making it a convenient option for breakfast, lunch, dinner, or a late-night bite.

Seating & Capacity

Cuisine & Drinks

The menu at Sazandari features a large selection of traditional Georgian dishes, prepared with fresh ingredients and served in famously generous, family‑style portions.

Most Popular Dishes (from reviews & delivery platforms)

Dietary Options

Drinks

💡 Portion warning: Guests consistently note that the portions are enormous and are meant to be shared by the whole table. Consider ordering two to three dishes for 3‑4 people to start.

Atmosphere & Entertainment

The Vibe

Sazandari is described as a cozy, traditional Georgian restaurant with an authentic atmosphere. It has a lively, energetic feel, especially in the evenings.

Live Music

A major highlight is the live traditional music. Musicians wander through the restaurant playing clarinet, drum, and recorder, performing Georgian folk songs. Guests can even request specific songs by giving a tip, creating a festive and interactive experience.

Interior Design

Service & Staff

Reviews on service are very mixed. Many guests praise the staff, while others report the opposite.

Positive Feedback

Constructive Feedback

“Some of the best food we had on our holiday; the staff are warm and welcoming.”

“The staff were extremely rude, and the service was slow.”

Guest Reviews Summary

Ratings Overview

Positive Highlights

Mixed or Negative Feedback

Practical Tips

Best Time to Visit

• For a Quieter Experience: Visit on a weekday around lunchtime (12:00 – 14:00) to avoid the dinner rush.
• For Live Music: Evenings, especially after 8:00 PM, when the musicians are usually performing.
• Avoid Peak Season Evenings: The restaurant is most popular around 9:00 PM on Thursdays, which can lead to long wait times.

What to Know

• Prices: Very reasonable for the quality and portion sizes. The average cost per person is around ₾20–40（~$8–15 USD）.
• Service Charge: A 13% service fee is automatically added to the bill. Be sure to check your bill before paying.
• Cards & Cash: The restaurant does not accept credit cards. You must pay with cash.
• Wait Times: Be prepared for potentially long waits for your food, especially if you order grilled meats. The side dishes may come at the same time, or even after, the main course.
• Wi-Fi: Not specified.

What to Order (First‑Time Recommendations)

Tips for the Best Experience

• Bring Cash: This is the most important tip. Without cash, you might find yourself in a difficult situation.
• Share Your Dishes: Order 2‑3 dishes for 3‑4 people. The portions are famously large, and this way you can sample more items.
• Check Your Bill: Look for the 13% service charge that is automatically included.
• Be Patient, Especially with Grilled Dishes: In Georgia, it‘s common for side dishes and main courses to arrive separately. The BBQ is worth the wait.
• Ask for Tablecloths: For a more “local” experience, the tables may not always have cloths. You can ask for one if you prefer.
• Visit the Restaurant Directly: While delivery is available through apps like Glovo, the full experience—including the live music and rustic atmosphere—is best enjoyed in person.

Why You Should Go

Whether you‘re seeking:

• Authentic Georgian Cuisine – Prepared with traditional recipes and served in enormous, shareable portions.
• Live Folk Music – A lively, festive atmosphere where wandering musicians play traditional songs.
• A True ‘Local‘ Experience – A restaurant that‘s popular with Georgian families, not just tourists.
• Excellent Value – High‑quality, hearty meals at very affordable prices.
• Vegetarian / Vegan Options – A good selection of plant‑based dishes.

Sazandari delivers an immersive, flavour‑filled introduction to Georgian food and culture—a place where big portions, live music, and rustic charm come together in Batumi‘s old town.

Getting There

Sazandari is located at 78 Zurab Gorgiladze Street in Batumi‘s old town, on the first floor of a residential building. It‘s within walking distance from Europe Square and the Batumi Seaport. The area is easily accessible by foot from most central hotels and is a short taxi ride from the New Boulevard district. Multiple bus routes also stop along Gorgiladze Street.