Mari Vanna

- 41 E 20th St, New York, NY 10003

In a city as culturally diverse as New York, finding a restaurant that transports you to another country is a special treat. Mari Vanna, located at 41 E 20th St, offers just that, bringing the warmth, charm, and authentic flavors of a traditional Russian home to the heart of Manhattan. This restaurant is more than a place to eat; it is an experience, from its enchanting "old school" décor to its menu of comforting, time-honored dishes. It has quickly become a "hidden gem" for those curious about authentic Russian cuisine, and a familiar favorite for those who grew up with it.

Mari Vanna’s unique atmosphere is a key part of its appeal. The space is filled with vintage Russian charm, creating a "cozy, romantic, and trendy" ambiance that makes it an ideal spot for a date night or a special group dinner. A customer review highlights the "comforting and old school" decor, which includes signature-covered walls in the restrooms, adding to the quirky and memorable vibe. The service is consistently praised, with staff being described as "welcoming," "attentive," and "friendly," contributing to the overall feeling of being a guest in a warm and inviting home. This combination of atmosphere, service, and high-quality, authentic food makes Mari Vanna a truly unique and highly recommended dining destination in New York City.

Mari Vanna is situated at 41 E 20th St, New York, NY 10003, in a prime location between the Flatiron District and Gramercy Park. This central spot makes it a convenient destination for a wide array of New Yorkers and tourists. The neighborhood is easily reachable by public transportation, with numerous subway lines and bus routes stopping within a short walk. While street parking can be a challenge, there are paid parking lots and garages in the vicinity, providing a good option for those arriving by car.

The restaurant is committed to ensuring that all guests have a comfortable and accessible experience. Mari Vanna features a wheelchair-accessible entrance, restroom, and seating, making it a welcoming destination for individuals with mobility challenges. The ambiance is romantic and trendy, and the space is popular with groups, locals, and tourists alike. Due to its popularity, reservations are highly recommended, especially for brunch and dinner, as there is "usually a wait" to get in. For families, the restaurant is "good for kids" and provides high chairs and changing tables, showing its dedication to accommodating all guests.

Mari Vanna provides a comprehensive list of services to cater to every customer’s needs. Their offerings are designed to make your dining experience seamless and enjoyable. The services include:

• Curbside pickup: A convenient service that allows you to pick up your order without leaving your car.
• No-contact delivery: For those who prefer to dine at home, the restaurant offers a safe and easy no-contact delivery service.
• Delivery: A standard delivery option is also available to bring their authentic Russian food right to your door.
• Takeout: You can place an order for takeout and pick it up to enjoy their food on the go.
• Dine-in: Experience the full, immersive atmosphere by dining in, with excellent table service in their cozy and elegant setting.
• Catering: Mari Vanna offers catering services for special events, bringing the taste of Russia to your party or gathering.
• Accepts Reservations: Reservations are not just accepted but often required for popular dining times, which helps guests plan their visit efficiently.

Mari Vanna’s charm extends beyond its menu to a host of features that make it a standout destination in NYC. These highlights include:

• Great Cocktails & Wine List: The restaurant is celebrated for its beverage program, which includes an excellent wine list and a creative cocktail menu, with a special emphasis on their "homemade infused vodkas," which are described as "smooth, flavorful, and no hangover the next day!"
• Exceptional Desserts: The dessert menu is a highlight, offering a variety of traditional Russian sweets that are perfect for capping off a meal.
• Serves Local Specialty: The restaurant is a specialist in authentic Russian cuisine, a niche that it excels in, and is considered a top spot for this type of food in the city.
• Cozy and Romantic Atmosphere: The decor and lighting create a unique, old-world vibe that is perfect for a romantic date night or an intimate group dinner.
• Family-Friendly & Inclusive: The restaurant is accommodating to families, offering high chairs and changing tables. It is also an inclusive space that welcomes a diverse crowd.
• Late-Night Food: Mari Vanna is open for late-night dining, making it a great option for a post-show meal or a late dinner.
• Bar Onsite: A full bar is available, offering a great place to sit, relax, and enjoy a drink before your meal.

With a menu full of authentic Russian classics, deciding what to order at Mari Vanna is an adventure. The best place to start is with the appetizers, which are often the stars of the show. The **Homemade Blinis with House Cured Salmon** and **Pike Caviar** are highly recommended and are described as "yummy" and a "perfect intro." The **Herring Under a Fur Coat Salad** is another must-try, with a reviewer calling it the "standout dish" of their meal. The **Siberian Pelmeni** (dumplings) are also a great choice, noted for being "yummy" and "light." The **Salo Plate** and **Veal Pelmeni** are other great starters that offer a taste of traditional Russian fare.

For the main course, the **Beef Stroganoff** is a classic choice, and the **Beef Rossini**, while a bit more modern, is also highly praised. For a lighter option, the **Chicken Kotletki** or **Golubtsy** (cabbage rolls) offer comforting, home-style flavors. And of course, no meal at Mari Vanna is complete without trying their homemade infused vodkas, which are a true highlight of the beverage menu.

Finally, save room for dessert. The menu features traditional Russian sweets like **Napoleon** and **Medovik** (honey cake), which are a perfect end to the meal. The atmosphere, a blend of a cozy home and an elegant dining room, along with the friendly and attentive staff, truly enhances the dining experience. Whether you’re a New Yorker looking to try something new or a tourist seeking a truly authentic experience, Mari Vanna is a culinary journey that is worth taking.

To make a reservation or learn more about this enchanting restaurant, you can contact Mari Vanna at the following details:

Address: 41 E 20th St, New York, NY 10003, USA

Phone: (212) 777-1955

Mari Vanna

41 E 20th St, New York, NY 10003, USA