Kiko stands as a personal reflection of its founders, Alex Chang and Lina Goujjane, blending their shared global influences and values into one cohesive dining experience. Located in Manhattan’s Hudson Square, this 75-seat restaurant is a meeting point of cultures and stories, where East meets West through food, design, and hospitality. For Alex and Lina, Kiko is more than a restaurant—it’s the culmination of years of ambition, resilience, and deeply personal inspiration.
Alex’s culinary journey began unconventionally, hosting supper clubs in his college apartment at the University of Southern California. “We served a three-course menu for $15,” he recalls, laughing at the memory of juggling 60 covers in a night. Born in Hong Kong to Mexican and Chinese parents, Alex spent his early years on the East Coast and Southern California before traveling the world to hone his craft. His work in kitchens like Animal in Los Angeles, Pujol in Mexico City, and restaurants in Japan and Europe shaped his approach to food. “I’ve always been drawn to bold, vibrant flavors. I love cooking with spice and acid. I want the food to feel electric and alive.”
Lina’s path to hospitality was rooted in family. Growing up in New York as a second-generation restaurateur, she spent her teenage years working every position in her family’s celebrated West Village restaurant. “I’ve always loved the front of house,” she explains. “But it wasn’t until I left my family’s business that I truly grew. Moving to Miami and working for new teams opened my eyes to what hospitality could be.” Lina’s natural talent for wine emerged while working at renowned restaurants like Sushi Noz and the Nomad Hotel, where she developed her sommelier expertise. “I never took formal classes. I learned by doing—studying, tasting, and working with amazing wine programs.”