Indian Food in Georgia: Mess Facilities in Medical Colleges

The Taste of Home in Europe

One of the biggest concerns for Indian parents sending their children abroad for six years is the food. Adjusting to a completely new cuisine while managing intense medical studies can be incredibly stressful. Fortunately, Georgian medical universities have completely solved this problem.

Dedicated Indian Mess Facilities

Because Indian students form the largest international demographic in Georgian medical colleges, almost every major university (such as TSMU, SEU, and Batumi Shota Rustaveli) has established dedicated Indian canteens and mess facilities right on campus or within the hostel premises.

What is on the Menu?

The mess is typically run by Indian contractors who import essential spices directly from India. The menu is highly diverse, catering to students from all across India:

• North Indian: Roti, Dal Makhani, Paneer Butter Masala, Rajma Chawal, and Parathas.
• South Indian: Dosa, Idli, Sambar, and traditional rice dishes.
• Non-Vegetarian: Chicken Curry, Biryani, and Egg dishes are served 2-3 times a week on specific days.

Strict Segregation: For students with strict dietary restrictions, vegetarian and non-vegetarian food is cooked in separate kitchens using separate utensils.

Monthly Costs

The cost of the Indian mess is usually not included in the tuition fee. Students typically pay an annual mess fee ranging from $1,200 to $1,500 (approx. ₹10,000 to ₹12,000 per month). This covers three meals a day (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner) along with evening tea and snacks.

Self-Cooking Options

If you prefer to cook your own meals, you are free to do so! Supermarkets in Tbilisi and Batumi, such as Carrefour and Fresco, stock all basic ingredients including rice, lentils, vegetables, and chicken. There are also specialized "Indian Grocery Stores" in Tbilisi where you can buy Maggi, Indian spices, and Haldiram snacks.