Laliko

The story

Laliko: Georgian Flavors in New York City's West Village – A Michelin Bib Gourmand

Laliko: Georgian Hospitality in the West Village

On Carmine Street, Laliko brings the flavors of Georgia to New York City. The restaurant’s tagline—“Authentic Georgia. Unforgettable Flavors”—is not marketing fluff; it is a promise delivered through centuries-old recipes and meticulous technique. The kitchen is open, allowing diners to watch chefs hand-wrap khinkali dumplings and bake crusty Ajarian khachapuri, a cheese-filled pastry boat.

The space itself reflects Georgian culture: a 200-year-old carpet, handcrafted tiles engraved with coats of arms from ancient Georgian regions, and large murals depicting historical moments. The atmosphere is casual and welcoming, designed for long, shared meals.

The Team Behind the Food

Three chefs lead the kitchen. Jimi Kurtanidze focuses on khachapuri, Ruslan Giorgberidze makes only khinkali, and executive chef Manuchar Tsikolia creates the signature “Mother Khinkali”—a giant dumpling filled with smaller ones, like a nesting doll. The menu also includes chicken in blackberry sauce, beef stew, skewered meats, and cauliflower in walnut sauce. The food is fragrant and bold, with bright, sour harmonics from fresh herbs and tart fruit vinegars.

A Well-Deserved Recognition

Laliko earned a Michelin Bib Gourmand for 2026, an award that celebrates good quality, good value cooking. The recognition aligns with the restaurant’s mission: to share Georgian cuisine—a cuisine that sits at the crossroads of Europe and Asia—with New Yorkers and visitors alike. The wine list features Georgian selections, including qvevri-aged amber wines, and the cocktail program incorporates chacha, a traditional Georgian grape brandy.

Whether you come for brunch, dinner, or just a glass of wine at the bar, Laliko offers a genuine taste of Georgia in the heart of the city.