Dinner at Mari Vanna
Posted on Aug 06, 2013 under Archives | No Comment
Mari Vanna
The best place for authentic Russian fare has finally arrived. Part of a small chain of Russian themed restaurants, Mari Vanna on Melrose Place is the third US location following New York and Washington D.C.
The décor can best be described as shabby chic on steroids with shelves and armoires full of nesting dolls, tchotchkes, candles, bric-a-brac, jars and pictures everywhere. It might sound cluttered but in reality the front porch area and inside small dining rooms are cozy and inviting.
The food is delicious and wide-ranging. Here is what Travis and I had during our visit:
strawberry infused vodka drink
We started off with a very strong strawberry infused vodka drink. Then they brought us….more vodka, then more vodka. There are dozens of strong house infused vodkas and tequilas to choose from and we had to stop them from sending over the whole bar. What we did taste was amazing. A must order.
trio of vodkas
We had several of the nine chopped salads.
Olivier salad
The Olivier salad includes roasted vegetables, pickles, hard boiled eggs and mayonnaise.
Vinegret beet salad
The Vinegret beet salad was refreshing with roasted beets and corn dressed in sunflower oil.
Their signature salad is the Herring Under A Fur Coat, layers of herring, potatoes, carrots, beets and onions and topped with egg and a little mayonnaise. We loved this dish. Very lovely plating as well.
herring under a fur coat
Next came…more infused vodka drinks – nectarine and pear. This were delicious.
nectarine, pear infused vodka drinks
Next came the tasty veal kotletki, pan seared veal patties served with buckwheat kasha. Yum.
veal kotletki
The blinis are terrific, we tried one with red caviar and it was outstanding.
blini with red caviar
beef stroganoff
The signature beef stroganoff was equally good and comforting.
pierogi
My favorite was the pierogies, they reminded me of my grandma’s, filled with either sea bass, pork or beef and cabbage and egg.
The signature dessert, smetannick with strawberries, is also a delight.
smetannick
We loved all the traditional Russian cuisine and atmosphere. Make sure to visit next time you are in the Melrose area. Located at 8475 Melrose Place, reservations recommended at 323.655.1977.