Finally tried Ubani Bistro on Bleecker and this place is way more interesting than I expected.
We started with the Adjaruli khachapuri -- that cheese "boat" with the egg in the middle -- and it was honestly ridiculous. Super rich, stretchy cheese, and you mix the egg in yourself while it's still hot. Definitely a must-order.
Also got the escargot, which I didn't expect to see on a Georgian menu, but it worked -- super buttery, garlicky, very French, and a nice contrast to the heavier dishes.
For mains, the shkmeruli (garlic Cornish hen) was insane. The sauce is super garlicky and creamy, but not overwhelming, and the chicken was really tender. We also tried the cauliflower with walnut sauce -- sounds simple, but it had that classic Georgian nutty, spiced flavor and ended up being one of the best dishes on the table.
Also worth mentioning: their khinkali (dumplings) are legit -- juicy inside, and you're supposed to eat them by hand and sip the broth first.
The whole place has that cozy West Village energy but feels a little different from the usual Italian spots -- more low-key, kind of feels like you stumbled into something niche.
Not a hype restaurant -- but the food actually hits. I'd go back just for the khachapuri and that garlic chicken alone. read more