Laliko, a new Georgian restaurant from Gurami Oniani, is redefining Georgian cuisine with a modern and refined approach in New York’s West Village. Located at 80 Carmine Street, the 42-seat space—designed by Surgal Studio—blends contemporary sophistication with Georgian heritage, creating an inviting atmosphere that reflects the country’s rich culinary traditions. At the heart of Laliko’s menu are elevated takes on classic dishes such as Khachapuri and Khinkali, prepared by individual chefs dedicated solely to perfecting these handcrafted specialties. An open kitchen highlights the artistry behind each dish, while a thoughtfully curated beverage program featuring Georgian wines, chacha-based cocktails, and traditional drinks enhances the immersive dining experience. As Georgian cuisine gains recognition in New York City, Laliko is at the forefront of this movement, aiming to establish it among the world’s most celebrated culinary traditions. More than just a restaurant, Laliko represents a cultural journey—one that invites diners to explore the depth, authenticity, and sophistication of Georgian food in a way that has never been done before.
Laliko is the latest venture from restaurateur Gurami Oniani, marking his first U.S. concept. A native of Georgia, Oniani has successfully opened over 30 Georgian restaurants across Tbilisi and Moscow under his Guliani Group, ranging from casual eateries to high-end dining destinations. Known for exceptional service, innovative menus, and a welcoming atmosphere, his establishments have become synonymous with excellence in Georgian hospitality.
Laliko has three chefs, two of which exclusively focus on creating their signature dish: Executive Chef Manuchar Tsikolia, who oversees the menu, Khachapuri Chef Jimi Kurtanidze, and Khinkali Chef Ruslan (Ucha) Giorgberidze. Manuchar Tsikolia brings over 18 years of expertise to his role, a deep appreciation for Georgian cuisine, and a talent for innovation. Jimi Kurtanidze, the Khachapuri Chef, honed his craft under the guidance of Gia Agirba, the creator of the doughless Adjaruli (cheese boat), a signature dish at Laliko, and is capable of baking an impressive 650 Adjaruli a day, all on his own. Ruslan (Ucha) Giorgberidze, the Khinkali Chef, was originally recruited by Oniani in 2011, along with his son, to work at Gurami’s first restaurant and has spent years perfecting the art of Khinkali-making, the iconic dumpling of Georgian cuisine.
Laliko’s mission is to introduce the world to the richness and splendor of Georgian cuisine, forging a lasting connection with the culture and traditions of Georgia. Each dish at Laliko is a story—one that encompasses its recipe, the origin of its ingredients, and the traditions behind its preparation. Laliko’s menu is a celebration of Georgia’s culinary diversity, offering a variety of dishes that highlight regional flavors and traditional techniques. The menu is divided into distinct sections, beginning with appetizers such as freshly baked bread made in-house that is infused with garlic and rosemary, along with traditional spreads and sauces like tkemali (a tart plum sauce), ajika (a spicy chili paste), and walnut-based pkhali.
The Khachapuri selection features Laliko’s signature Adjaruli, making it without milk or sugar, using only hand-kneaded dough with no mixer. The soft interior of the bread is removed, resulting in a thinner, crispier crust that is lighter on the stomach while maintaining its rich, cheesy filling. The Imeruli with Mint is Laliko’s unique take on the classic round khachapuri, offering a fresh and herbaceous twist; and Megruli, which adds an extra layer of cheese baked on top.
A highlight of the menu is Khinkali, the iconic Georgian dumplings, available in beef and pork, lamb, cheese, and even a mushroom variation in truffle sauce. Guests can also experience the dramatic Mother Khinkali, a giant dumpling filled with six smaller dumplings inside.
For heartier fare, the main dishes feature comforting and flavorful options such as Chicken in Chkmeruli or Blackberry Sauce, Chashushuli (a rich beef stew with tomatoes and bell peppers), and Kupati, a grilled Georgian sausage served with celery root purée and pomegranate. The grill section offers classic Georgian skewers like Pork and Chicken Mtsvadi, served with fresh salads, while vegetarians can enjoy dishes like Lobio (stewed beans with herbs and marinated vegetables) and Cauliflower in Green Baje, crispy bites coated in a fragrant walnut-cilantro sauce.
For dessert, Laliko serves Georgian favorites like Korkoti, traditionally prepared for funerals, but reimagined here as a fun and modern expression of Georgian cuisine—a sweet blend of grains, honey, and nuts paired with vanilla ice cream, and Napoleon, a delicate layered pastry with a creamy filling.
Laliko’s beverage program highlights Georgia’s unique drinking culture, featuring a curated selection of wines, cocktails, and non-alcoholic offerings. The wine list showcases both qvevri-aged amber wines and European-style reds and whites from small-batch Georgian producers, such as the crisp and floral Tsinandali from Kakheti, the bold and earthy Saperavi, and the vibrant, fruit-forward Ojaleshi from Samegrelo.
The cocktail program centers around Chacha, Georgia’s iconic grape-based spirit, which forms the base of several signature drinks. Strawberry Fields combines chacha with strawberry, honey, and lime for a refreshing, slightly sweet profile, while Tangerine Dreams blends chacha citron with mandarin, lemon, and a hint of tabasco for a bright and spicy kick. The Last Word of Georgia, a play on the classic cocktail, offers a refined mix of chacha citron, green chartreuse, lime juice, simple syrup, and dry curaçao, while the Laliko Sour balances chacha with lemon, orange juice, dry curaçao, and egg white for a smooth, velvety texture. Guests can also enjoy the Vieux Carré, featuring rye, Georgian cognac XO, sweet vermouth, Dom Benedictine, and Peychaud’s bitters. In addition to these signature creations, Laliko serves classic cocktails and Georgian tarragon soda, Tarkhuna, a bright green, herbaceous soft drink with a slightly sweet, licorice-like flavor
Laliko’s design reflects a deep connection to Georgian culture while embracing modern aesthetics. Created in collaboration with Zviadi Surguladze of Surgula Studio, the space blends contemporary style with subtle references to Georgian heritage. A large communal table, symbolizing the Georgian supra, invites guests to experience the warmth of a traditional gathering. Backgammon illustrations on the tables pay homage to nardi, a beloved Georgian game, while a striking green column with handmade Tbilisi tiles celebrates Georgian craftsmanship. A mural by Georgian artists incorporates cultural symbols such as Svan towers, qvevri winemaking, and The Knight in the Panther’s Skin, further immersing guests in the country’s rich traditions. Beneath the communal table, a 200-year-old pardagi carpet connects the space to Georgia’s deep-rooted textile heritage. By showcasing Georgian artistry in a modern setting, Laliko creates an atmosphere where tradition and contemporary design harmoniously coexist.
Laliko is open daily from 12:00 pm to 10:30 pm. Reservations can be made at OpenTable.
