holiday.ge Georgian food

Imereti tradition

Khachapuri

Georgia's cheese bread comes in many regional shapes. Start with the round Imeretian version that most Georgians treat as the classic.

Round Imeretian cheese bread cut into wedges on a plate
Photo: Sercut · image credits

What it is

Khachapuri is bread baked with cheese, and nearly every Georgian region has its own version. Georgia Travel counts dozens of types, including Imeretian, Ajarian, Megrelian, Gurian and Svan. Imeretian khachapuri, often called the mother of khachapuri, is a round, closed bread made with thin dough and slightly salty Imeretian cheese.

Around Georgia

The other famous versions build on the same idea. Megrelian khachapuri adds another layer of cheese on top, and Ajarian khachapuri is an open boat with egg and butter. Penovani uses flaky pastry, and Gurian pies add boiled egg to the filling. Imeretian khachapuri is a standard part of a Georgian supra, cut into wedges and shared across the table.

At the table

In Georgianხაჭაპური
OriginImereti tradition
TypeBreads and filled pies

How to order it

Ask for imeruli for the round classic or megruli for the cheese-topped version. A whole khachapuri is meant for sharing, so one is usually plenty alongside other dishes for two or three people.

What's in it

Wheat, cheese and usually egg and butter. It is vegetarian but not vegan. Recipes vary, so confirm ingredients with the kitchen if you have an allergy or dietary need.