The Art of the Georgian Supra: A Feast of Generosity and Hopspitality

Georgia, a land of rich history and vibrant culture, is renowned for its exceptional hospitality. Central to this tradition is the Georgian Supra, a feast that goes beyond mere dining. It is a celebration of life, community, and the spirit of sharing. This blog post delves into the heart of the Georgian Supra, the profound hospitality that defines Georgian culture, and the unforgettable experiences that await travelers on our culinary tour.

A Warm Welcome to Georgia

On my first visit to Georgia, I was deeply moved by the generosity and genuine desire of the Georgian people to share their time and culture. My assistant and I were treated to a late lunch that far exceeded our expectations. The table was laden with Georgian dishes, including the vibrant Pkhali, an assortment of Georgian cheeses, fresh salads, and an abundance of wine. It was during this meal that I met Data, whose warmth and hospitality made our experience truly unforgettable.

Every Meal a Feast

In Georgia, every meal felt like a feast. I vividly remember being welcomed into the home and farm of Shota and Natia. After a hands-on cooking lesson with Natia, we sat down to an incredible spread that featured Khachapuri, Khinkali, a delightful cheese dip, and a variety of gorgeous salads, all accompanied by Shota’s wine. The table was a visual and culinary delight, showcasing the best of Georgian cuisine.

The Real Supra Experience

The pinnacle of my Georgian culinary journey was at the Pheasant’s Tears vineyard. Here, we experienced a real Georgian Supra, complete with heartfelt toasts honoring the guests and an endless array of dishes. Some of these dishes we had even helped prepare, adding to the sense of community and shared experience. It was a never-ending moment of good company, great food, and genuine sharing. During this part of the trip, I was introduced to more delightful dishes by Tamara and Mariam, further enriching my understanding and appreciation of Georgian cuisine.

The Spirit of Mother Georgia

The statue of Mother Georgia, standing tall over Tbilisi, perfectly encapsulates the spirit of the Georgian people. With a sword in one hand for those who come as enemies and a chalice in the other for those who come as friends, Mother Georgia symbolizes the resilience and welcoming nature of the nation. Despite the many invasions and challenges they have faced, the Georgian people remain extraordinarily hospitable and generous.

Inspiration for Our Tour

My experiences in Georgia inspired me to create a culinary tour that captures the essence of Georgian hospitality. The people, the food, and the diverse landscapes—both urban and rural—offer a unique and enriching experience. Georgian cuisine, a melange of flavors and cultures, is spicy, flavorful, healthy, and utterly delicious.

Meeting Future Collaborators

During my visit, I was fortunate to meet future collaborators who have become integral to our tours. People like Data, Tamara, and Mariam bring immeasurable value to the experience. Their passion for their culture, food, and wine is infectious, and they warmly welcome visitors eager to learn more. Even our driver played a key role in making the experience unforgettable.

An Unforgettable Journey

Our culinary tour in Georgia offers travelers the opportunity to cook alongside fantastic chefs, explore the Georgian countryside, and journey from Tbilisi to the Kakheti region, the birthplace of winemaking. It’s a safely guided, once-in-a-lifetime experience that immerses you in the heart of Georgian hospitality.

For a glimpse into the world of Georgian hospitality and the Supra, check out this episode from CBS News’ “60 Minutes” featuring an interview with John Wurdeman, whose tour company and winery, Pheasant’s Tears, we have partnered with for this tour.

Join us on this incredible journey and let’s eat the world together!