Borjomi, a scenic resort town in central Georgia, is famous for its mineral springs and forested landscapes. But beyond wellness and nature, it offers a modest but flavorful experience of local markets and traditional eats. Dive into its charming stalls and street-side nibbles for a real taste of Georgian countryside life.
1. Borjomi Central Market
Why visit: A compact yet lively market where locals shop for daily essentials and seasonal produce.
Highlights: – Fresh mountain herbs – Homemade cheese and spices – Local honey and jams
Timing: 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Entry: Free
2. Chveni Bakery Stall
Why visit: Famous among locals for its piping hot khachapuri and traditional baked goods straight from the oven.
Highlights: – Adjarian khachapuri with egg – Lobiani (bean-filled bread) – Fluffy Georgian puri
Timing: 7:30 AM to 5:00 PM
Entry: Free; items ₹80–₹200
3. Mineral Water Park Snack Vendors
Why visit: Enjoy quick eats near Borjomi’s iconic spring fountains while strolling through lush park trails.
Highlights: – Churchkhela (nutty candy) – Corn on the cob – Ice-cold bottled spring water
Timing: 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM
Entry: Free; snacks ₹50–₹150
4. Rustaveli Street Local Sellers
Why visit: Walk through Borjomi’s main road to find spontaneous mini-markets and friendly locals selling food.
Highlights: – Homemade pickles – Spiced walnuts – Mountain berries and herbal teas
Timing: 9:00 AM to 8:00 PM
Entry: Free
5. Samtskhe-Javakheti Cheese Corner
Why visit: A local stop where families sell cheese blocks and fermented dairy straight from their farms.
Highlights: – Sulguni cheese – Smoked gouda variants – Tastings often offered
Timing: 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM
Entry: Free; cheese from ₹150 onwards
6. Khinkali Street Cart near Train Station
Why visit: A favorite among travelers for its soft and juicy khinkali dumplings made on the spot.
Highlights: – Beef and mushroom fillings – Lightly peppered broth – Served steaming hot
Timing: 12:00 PM to 8:00 PM
Entry: Free; ₹150–₹250 per plate
7. Mountain Honey & Herbal Stand
Why visit: Discover rare mountain honey and natural infusions harvested by local beekeepers.
Highlights: – Dark buckwheat honey – Dried mint and chamomile – Tiny taster jars available
Timing: 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Entry: Free; honey jars from ₹250
8. Street-side Lobiani Vendors
Why visit: A must-try for vegetarians, this bean-filled flatbread is sold at various street corners, warm and filling.
Highlights: – Smoky baked crust – Nutty bean mash – Portable and satisfying snack
Timing: 11:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Entry: ₹100–₹180 per piece
9. Sunday Farmers’ Gathering
Why visit: A casual open-air market that pops up on weekends with homemade items and baked treats.
Highlights: – Fruit wines – Fresh lavash bread – Hand-packed spices
Timing: Sundays, 8:00 AM to 2:00 PM
Entry: Free
10. Local Pickle & Preserves Stall
Why visit: A colorful little corner selling jars of pickled vegetables and fermented delights, great for take-home treats.
Highlights: – Pickled garlic and beets – Ajika paste – Fermented cabbage
Timing: 9:30 AM to 5:30 PM
Entry: Free; jars from ₹120 onward
Feature Image Credit - Photo by Gregory Atkats on Unsplash
