Christina G.
Yelp
Deda has been popping up all over my Instagram feed, and since our family has Georgian roots, of course we had to check it out -- part curiosity, part support.
They have a very convenient parking structure and they validate parking for 2 hours (otherwise can cost about $20.00). Upon walking in, we were greeted warmly in Georgian by two hostesses. The space is big, modern, and decorated with a fun cultural twist -- film posters from Georgia and Armenia that instantly set a cool vibe.
The setting/ plating is nice, but the utensils were a bit dirty. Our server was kind, though the pacing was... let's just say a little too relaxed. We asked for water, but it was forgotten. Later, we asked for paper napkins, but it never came (luckily we had some in our purses).
The bread came out first and was fantastic -- warm and fresh, perfect for our appetizer that didn't end up coming until much later. For food, we tried the Chicken Baje (great flavor, Sahara-level dryness), the sturgeon plate (good, though it leaned too sweet with the molasses side), and of course, the khinkali -- the dish I was most excited for. My mom has been making khinkali my entire life (she lived in Tbilisi for 10 years when she married my dad, so she knows what's up). Unfortunately, the khinkali was a letdown: the menu said beef, but the taste screamed lamb, and the saltiness was super intense. We know how much love goes into making these, so we forced it down. I am a salt lover, but it was unbearable. I am surprised nobody tests the batch before sending it out. I was a bit concerned with the flavor too - if it wasn't lamb, why did it taste like it? OR, if there IS lamb mixed in with the beef, why wasn't that notated on the menu? It was concerning for multiple reasons such as allergies or issues digesting lamb.
Service had its ups and downs -- one server (didn't catch his name - guy with a great beard) was fantastic and even double-checked on our appetizer when I asked him if it's normal to receive our entree before an appetizer. Meanwhile, other staff/ our waitress were off in the corner chatting, dancing, and overall not showing a sense of urgency to their tables.
Overall: 3 stars. The food has good moments, but it's overpriced for what it is, and the service could be sharpened. As many reviews point out, it's not quite "authentically Georgian." That said, I want to root for them. The foundation is here -- a great concept, beautiful space, and clear effort. With a few tweaks in the kitchen and a bit more attention from the floor staff, Deda could really shine.