TLDR
Immersive, kitschy Russian dining in a cozy, Dickensian-inspired space. Famous for signature horseradish vodka shots and authentic comfort food classics.
Details
Known for its unique, Dickensian-style interior filled with ornate chandeliers and lace doilies, this spot offers a deeply atmospheric setting for traditional Russian cuisine [1]. Patrons frequently highlight the comforting nature of the food and the vibrant, sociable bar scene [2]. Many consider it a superior alternative to other local Russian establishments due to its higher quality and distinctive charm [3], [4].
Food Overview
The menu focuses on authentic Russian staples including beef stroganoff, chicken kiev, blinis, pelmeni, and borscht, which are traditionally enjoyed with generous helpings of sour cream [1], [5], [7]. Recommended additions to the meal include the signature horseradish vodka and a variety of delicious salads and cocktails [1], [5], [7]. While the piroshki are noted for being tasty, their value has been a subject of mixed feedback among diners [6].
Highlights / Recommended
"Highly recommended items include the beef stroganoff, pelmeni, blinis, and the signature horseradish vodka [1], [5], [7]."
Mentioned Dishes:
- •blinis(2)
Customer Sentiment
Overall sentiment is overwhelmingly positive, with guests frequently describing the restaurant as a charming 'gem' that excels in both its cozy atmosphere and quality food [3], [5]. While most appreciate the experience, a few patrons note that specific items can be perceived as slightly expensive [4], [6].
Caveats
Some visitors have pointed out that the pricing can be higher than at other Russian dining options in the city [4], [6].
Reddit Opinions & Reviews
Top Reddit Posts About MARI VANNA
Recent Reddit Mentions
From post: Where Can I Get Some Great Traditional Eastern
"Suggested as a potential place to get takeout."
NeutralFrom post: Wheres A Forlorn Gal Taking Herself Out To Dinner
"The commenter recommended Mari Vanna for its comforting food, great drinks, sociable bar atmosphere, and kitschy decor, suggesting it would be a good distraction from sadness."
PositiveFrom post: Planning A Weekend Trip In The City With My Mom
"Mari Vanna is mentioned as a fun option for Russian food. The user recalls a buffet brunch available before Covid, allowing for tasting multiple dishes."
PositiveFrom post: Best Beef Stroganoff In Manhattan
"User recommended Mari Vanna for its beef stroganoff and mentioned delicious cocktails and salads. They also noted Casa restaurant on Duane Street has a Brazilian version of stroganoff."
PositiveFrom post: Best Beef Stroganoff In Manhattan
"User described Mari Vanna as a gem."
PositiveFrom post: Best Beef Stroganoff In Manhattan
"User found Mari Vanna to be an adorable restaurant and thanked the recommender."
PositiveFrom post: Best Beef Stroganoff In Manhattan
"User recommended Mari Vanna, along with Veselka and The Odeon."
PositiveFrom post: Unusual Food Near Msg
"The commenter found the mention of Mari Vana, a Russian restaurant, to be a strange coincidence given their current interest in Russian players and hockey."
NeutralFrom post: Unusual Food Near Msg
"Mari Vana is a Russian restaurant frequented by Russian NHL players when they are in town."
PositiveFrom post: Good Energy 30th Bday For 1012 People
"Mari Vanna was a blast in a previous year for a birthday celebration, known for its horseradish vodka shots, implying a lively atmosphere."
PositiveFrom post: Places I Like In New York
"Mari Vanna was mentioned as a Russian restaurant."
NeutralFrom post: Need To Impress A Skeptic
"This is a recommendation for Russian food, specifically mentioning Mari Vanna in Manhattan."
PositiveFrom post: Russian Restaurants And Dishes
"Mari Vanna is considered the best option by this commenter, with food quality being higher than places in Brighton Beach and a less 'ethnic' vibe."
PositiveFrom post: Russian Restaurants And Dishes
"This commenter highly recommends Mari Vanna, suggesting the cranberry infused vodka, pelmeni, fish mayo salad, blinis, salo, and khinkali. They advise going with a group to try more dishes."
PositiveFrom post: Russian Restaurants And Dishes
"The commenter recommends Mari Vanna over other Russian restaurants, stating that the others are overpriced and of lower quality."
PositiveFrom post: Looking For Russian Empanadas Russian Piroshki
"A commenter who previously mentioned Mari Vanna's piroshki as tasty but overpriced, now states that they are mediocre at best and they haven't found good ones."
NegativeFrom post: Looking For Russian Empanadas Russian Piroshki
"Commenter states that Mari Vanna has tasty but overpriced piroshki."
NegativeFrom post: Best Way To Do Russian Tea Room
"In addition to criticizing the Russian Tea Room, this commenter mentions that Mari Vanna is a bit more expensive than Russian Samovar but has a gorgeous interior."
PositiveFrom post: Best Way To Do Russian Tea Room
"This user expresses strong positive sentiment towards Mari Vanna with an emoji."
PositiveFrom post: Best Way To Do Russian Tea Room
"This commenter recommends Mari Vanna in Manhattan as a better and more fun option for experiencing Russian ambiance compared to the Russian Tea Room."
Positive