KINTO Cozy & Authentic Georgian Restaurant — Restaurant in Philadelphia

IMPECCABLE and IMPRESSIVE. I would highly recommend this restaurant for both atmosphere and the food. This is a great experience - Reasoning below.

Food. The food was phenomenal. If you’re looking to experience Georgia, or just experience something different, the food was wonderful. The highlight for me wasn’t just the staples, it was also the incredibly simple Georgian salad. The salad was full of flavor and reminded me of my time in Tbilisi—I can attest it is very authentic Georgian. The Khinkali met the mark for sure, for me good khinkali feels like a hug from the inside with every bite - these did not disappoint. Excellent.

Service - I just recently returned from visiting Tbilisi and what struck me the most was the warmth of the people, the servers were both Georgian—and while I don’t expect that as a requirement to work here—the fact that they exuded that same warmth and hospitality made me feel like I was back in Tbilisi. The only thing that would have made it feel more like Georgia would have been an offering of cha cha after the meal (but this is a liquor and this establishment is a BYO with no liquor license so I say this as mostly a joke because I know if they could they probably would have).

Atmosphere - this is one of the nicest Georgian restaurants I’ve ever dined at when it comes to atmosphere and ambiance, it feels like fine dining (and it is). It’s a great date spot but also perfect for a nice dinner with friends. I’ve been to many Georgian restaurants and many lack the feel and vibe of the fine dining vibe I get here - I imagine that may play into my only critical comment.

The only critical feedback I’ll provide is the pricing. I found the menu items to be pricier than what I expect. This won’t deter me from returning. I found the khinkali expensive compared to what I’m used to, I think $9 for three would be more suitable/make them feel more valuable. I did order two orders but I feel like more tables would order two orders of khinkali if they were at $9 vs $12. I will obviously return and pay $12, but that means each khinkali is $4 which I consider quite pricey for this menu item - I felt everything else was fairly acceptable in terms of pricing, but for what I am used to with Georgian food on the pricier end - however as I stated earlier about the atmosphere and service I think it is largely fair.

20% gratuity is included with your check so be mindful of that. The service was so good I did add to it. I would suggest to the restaurant to mention this 20% service charge inclusion to customers when the bill is provided and let them know that their is a 20% service charge included in the bill and that if you would like to provide additional tip it is up to the diner. It’s certainly a warranted service charge and I liked that it was included, but would like if they just acknowledge it with customers in the future.

I will absolutely return, thank you for this experience and I hope there will be many who read this and visit Kinto. I really loved my time here and want to reiterate that - even with my feedback it’s from a place of love because I wouldn’t write such a detailed review unless I truly loved this restaurant experience and want it to be even...

I think it’s been less than 6 months since this Georgian restaurant opened in Fishtown and it’s already one of the busiest spots I go to. As a Georgian, seeing real, authentic dishes here makes me so proud and happy.

For context in Georgian homes our grandmas used to fill our plates to the edge and say we had to finish everything so clean that the plate would sparkle. They said it meant our future partners would be loving, kind, and beautiful (that was just grandma lying to make us eat more). So when it comes to Georgian food, we naturally expect generous portions and tons of variety.

To my fellow Georgians portions here aren’t exactly like grandma’s, but they’re still filling and delicious. And to anyone new to Georgian food don’t be shocked if Georgians order half the menu. it’s just our love language with food. We don’t waste, we just like to feel fed.

The food itself was incredible and it actually tasted like home. I’m vegetarian and loved the cheese khinkali, Adjarian khachapuri (known as the cheese boat), and eggplant rolls with walnuts. I also spotted the “Drip Trio” on another table it looked mouthwatering, that’s next on my list for sure.

Our server, tall guy with curly hair was the definition of Georgian hospitality. super friendly, attentive, and full of good vibes. Give that man a raise (jk, but actually).

If you’re Georgian and craving a cozy, authentic dinner spot go. If you want to introduce your American friends to our culture go. If you’re just curious about Georgian...

I promise you that you will NOT be disappointed with Kinto. We had Chikhirtma, which is a wonderful chicken soup, Kharcho, which is a wonderful beef soup, and Beans In Pod, which is a wonderful bean soup. It tastes like what you want, seasoned without being spicy, filling, and comforting. The staff are super friendly, everything is new and clean, and I'm going back for the soup dumplings - maybe later tonight. Seriously - check it out.

Update: I did go back (the next evening) for the soup dumplings (Khinkali) and they were killer. If there's anything better on a cool fall night, I don't know what it is.

But just in case, we dug deeper into the menu. The flatbread stuffed with kidney beans (Lobiani) was warm and comforting, and paired with the Georgian salad (walnut dressing is really good) makes a good vegetarian pairing. The beef and tomato stew (Chashushuli) was another perfectly seasoned masterpiece, but the chicken in a garlic milk sauce (Shkmeruli) got a mixed reception at our table.

A big hit overall, and we will be back again! We've found that a soup and a salad is plenty for a smaller appetite ($24 for the pair) and a larger appetite with three items can run into the $45 range, but I'm telling you,...