Of the many well-preserved Georgian traditions, the Supra might be the most famous one. It represents a festive meal for family and friends, and it is nothing short of a hospitality ritual. Recently, we were privileged to have our language teacher explain it in detail over a whole lesson.

The Tamada, also known as the toastmaster, is usually the oldest or the most respected man in the family, and he always starts the dinner with an elaborate speech and a lengthy toast.

“The first toast is always to God,” Mrs. Inga explained. “It is a form of respect.”

Our eyes got big. This was getting interesting.

“Then, everyone drinks,” she continued. “We then raise the glass for the ancestors, for the deceased dear ones, for family, and not lastly, for the guests.”

Of course, there might be as many toasts as you can think of, and everyone has to drink after each one of them.

She paused for a second and then confessed, “I don’t like the drinking part that much. Usually, by the time the Tamada finishes his speech, everyone is already too drunk to take the moment seriously.”

Chris and I smiled, partly amused and partly impressed. We always knew that Georgians were very proud of their traditions, rarely questioning them.

There are also traditional dishes that you will always find at a Supra. There is khachapuri, also called ‘the heart attack,’ a traditional bread stuffed with all kinds of cheese. There is pkhali, the herb and walnut spread. Then there are the delicious walnut stuffed eggplant and various salads. There will be khinkali, the traditional stuffed dumplings; mtsvadi, a barbecue; plus lots of bread and wine. When you think you cannot possibly take another bite, they will bring dessert.

After teaching us how to politely decline sampling more food, Mrs. Inga let out a good laugh and said, “Most of the time, just saying this will get you nowhere. You will have to shout a few times and raise your voice; otherwise, they will completely ignore you and continue to get you stuffed.”

Experiencing Georgian hospitality is indeed unforgettable. I sometimes wonder what the Heavenly Supra will be like and how many of our Georgian friends we will reacquaint ourselves with there. It is the invitation we dearly wish to pass on. Please pray that many of them will say yes!

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