A Georgian bistro in Tokyo, Ajika, has attracted more than 5,000 visitors in just its first three months of operation. The restaurant, located in Tokyo’s historic district, opened in September and is Japan’s first Georgian bistro and wine bar. Built entirely around Georgian themes, it features symbolic elements such as a 150-year-old qvevri and Georgian wines, along with sulguni and Imeretian cheese produced exclusively for the Japanese market.
Co-founder Giorgi Abuladze says the restaurant significantly exceeded expectations from day one, with almost every day fully booked. Guests praised the food, wine and atmosphere—many noting that it feels like a Tbilisi restaurant. Those who have never visited Georgia say the experience sparked their interest in traveling there.
Most of Ajika’s customers are Japanese, but the bistro also attracts visitors from post-Soviet countries, Europe and the United States. Abuladze highlights that Georgia enjoys strong recognition in Japan, supported by the Georgian Embassy’s active cultural work. Visitors often ask questions about Georgian culture and express curiosity beyond just the cuisine.
Ajika has also achieved strong online visibility. On Tabelog, Japan’s leading restaurant platform with around 100,000 listings, the bistro ranks 177th based on user search criteria. The project represents a total investment of $400,000 and is already establishing Georgian cuisine as a notable presence in Tokyo.
