Tamada: A Georgian Home Away from Home
Tamada is a little Georgian gem in Paris, just steps from Luxembourg Gardens--and absolutely worth a visit.
I grew up in Georgia, a Megrelian from Imereti on the Rioni River. We Megrelians are the "Michelin" of Georgian food, so I don't take Georgian restaurants lightly. I left home decades ago and travel constantly for work, so I'm always hunting for the real thing.
I've eaten at Georgian restaurants all over the world, but Tamada really got to me. The moment I walked in, I felt the warmth, the colors, and the genuine hospitality. It felt like home.
The food is freshly made, authentic, and packed with flavor. The khachapuri, khinkali, and lobio served in a traditional clay pot are all spot-on. Their eggplant with walnuts is wonderful, and I loved that they bring Georgian spices on the side so you can adjust everything to your taste.
The space is small, cozy, and spotlessly clean, clearly designed with care. What sealed it for me was that the staff are Georgian, the chef is Georgian, and the Georgian owner is genuinely present, checking in, making sure people are happy. When you walk in, you feel it instantly: you are welcome home in Georgia.
Paris has plenty of beautiful restaurants, but if you want real Georgian food and real Georgian hospitality, go here. The prices are reasonable too. I left with a full heart and a smile, and I can't wait to go back. read more