Discover Mari - The Heart of Korean Culinary Art in Manhattan New York City

Tucked away on 9th Avenue in the vibrant borough of Manhattan, Mari offers an innovative dining experience that captivates food enthusiasts and Korean cuisine lovers alike. This urbane restaurant specializes in gourmet Korean hand rolls, presenting traditional flavors through a modern, artistic lens. Every dish at Mari is a celebration of craftsmanship, combining fresh, carefully selected ingredients and masterful preparation in an inviting atmosphere.

An exceptional tasting menu and ambiance

Mari’s 13-course tasting menu is a journey through bold and nuanced Korean flavors reimagined with sophistication. Highlights include snow crab and uni Mari, egg and caviar starters, and an unforgettable oyster Mari course. The chefs’ attention to detail shines in every bite, from the delicate hand rolls to the impressive lobster main. Diners often praise the perfectly paced meal accompanied by attentive service that enhances the overall experience.

Why Mari stands out in New York’s dining scene

Beyond the exquisite flavors, Mari offers a sleek and cozy space where the open kitchen invites guests to watch expert chefs craft each dish with precision and passion. Ideal for intimate dinners and groups alike, the restaurant serves a full spectrum from brunch and coffee to cocktails and dessert, catering to every craving. While outdoor seating is unavailable, the comfortable counter seating and professional staff create a welcoming vibe that makes every visitor feel at home.

What is the price of the tasting menu at Mari? The Mari Tasting Menu is priced at $145 per person.
Does Mari accept reservations? Yes, reservations can be made through their website or by calling the restaurant.
Is there a wine pairing option available? Yes, Mari offers a wine pairing for $110 to complement the tasting menu.

Community sentiment and visitor experience

Mari has garnered a glowing reputation in New York City's competitive dining landscape. Guests frequently celebrate the restaurant’s creative approach to Korean cuisine, the engaging open-kitchen concept, and the friendly, knowledgeable staff who make every meal memorable. From the expert wine pairings to the delightful desserts, patrons return time and again to savor the unique blend of tradition and innovation that Mari embodies.

What makes Mari’s Korean hand rolls unique? Mari reinterprets classic Korean flavors with fresh ingredients and artistic presentation, creating hand rolls that are both a feast for the eyes and palate.
Is Mari suitable for group dining? Yes, Mari welcomes groups and offers a comfortable setting ideal for sharing an exceptional culinary experience.

Mari restaurant history overview in New York City, NY, USA

Nestled in the vibrant Hell's Kitchen neighborhood of Manhattan, Mari is a culinary gem that has swiftly carved its place in New York City's dynamic food scene. The name 'Mari', meaning 'roll' in Korean, reflects the restaurant's dedication to crafting exquisite Korean hand rolls that captivate both locals and visitors alike.

A bold beginning in 2021

Mari officially opened its doors in December 2021, marking the second Michelin-starred venture of renowned Chef Sungchul Shim. Positioned at 679 9th Avenue, this urbane restaurant introduced an innovative gourmet Korean dining experience that quickly attracted food enthusiasts eager for fresh and authentic flavors. Chef Shim, already celebrated for his pioneering work at Kochi in the same neighborhood, brought his signature touch of creativity and precision to Mari, specializing in a unique tasting menu centered around hand rolls.

Recognition and growth in 2022

Within a year of its opening, Mari proudly earned its first Michelin star in 2022, affirming its status as a destination for exceptional Korean cuisine in New York City. This accolade not only recognized the restaurant's culinary excellence but also highlighted Chef Shim's innovative approach to traditional Korean flavors presented through modern techniques. The Michelin star has helped enhance Mari's reputation, making it a must-visit spot for food lovers seeking an unparalleled tasting menu experience.

What makes Mari stand out today

Mari's success is driven by its commitment to providing an intimate and sleek dining atmosphere where guests can savor a curated Korean tasting menu featuring hand rolls bursting with fresh, distinct flavors. The open kitchen concept allows diners to watch skilled chefs in action, enhancing the overall immersive experience. With offerings that include wine and cocktail pairings, Mari balances tradition with contemporary flair, making it an influential player in the evolving Korean culinary landscape of New York City.

2021: Mari opened in December 2021, introducing an innovative Korean hand roll experience to Hell's Kitchen.
2022: Mari received its first Michelin star, cementing its reputation as a top-tier Korean dining destination.

Discover Mari: A Michelin-Starred Korean Culinary Experience in Manhattan New York City New York United States Restaurant Food Point of Interest Establishment 679 9th Ave NY 10036 USA Location Data Plus Code 87G8Q265 JP Q265 JP New York NY USA DineIn True Wine Pairing Tasting Menu Snow Crab Uni Mari Egg Caviar Starter Oyster Mari Lobster Main Hand Rolls Creative Korean Tasting Menu 13 Courses Relaxed Two Hour Period Mushrooms Spicy Tuna Chefs Counter Korean Fusion Michelin Star Experience Brunch Mandu Dessert Ssam Seafood Noodles Tight Counter Seating Space Paid Street Parking NFC Debit Credit Cards Cocktails Wine Beer Brunch Coffee Dinner Dessert Good For Groups No Vegetarian Vegan No Gluten Free No Rice Free No Egg Free No Raw Seafood Options

Nestled in the heart of Manhattan at 679 9th Avenue, Mari offers an urbane dining experience that has earned its Michelin star by showcasing innovative Korean hand rolls. This restaurant invites food lovers, especially those enchanted by Korean cuisine and tasting menus, to indulge in a unique journey through a creative 13-course meal served over a relaxed two-hour period. Patrons have praised the attentive and knowledgeable service, with servers who expertly describe each wine pairing and dish, enhancing the overall enjoyment of the meal.

Exceptional culinary highlights

Mari's menu features standout items such as snow crab and uni Mari, egg and caviar starters, and an oyster Mari that delights the palate. The lobster main dish is another crowd favorite, noted for its perfect portion size and phenomenal taste. Patrons highly recommend sitting at the chefs' counter to watch the meticulous preparation of each hand roll, which includes favorites like the spicy tuna and mushroom varieties. Desserts, including delectable donuts and mandu, provide a sweet finish to the meal.

Welcoming atmosphere and attentive service

The ambiance at Mari is described as sleek and cozy, creating an inviting environment for groups and intimate dinners alike. The staff is praised for their friendliness and professionalism, contributing to a warm and welcoming atmosphere that complements the Michelin-star quality of the cuisine. Whether visiting for brunch, dinner, or simply to enjoy expertly crafted cocktails and wine, guests appreciate the thoughtful service and detailed explanations of each dish.

Considerations for diners

While Mari excels in creative Korean cuisine and an exceptional tasting experience, there are some limitations to consider before visiting. The menu currently does not accommodate vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, rice-free, or egg-free diets, nor does it offer raw seafood options. Additionally, the counter seating can feel a bit tight, and occasional minor service hiccups have been noted, such as limited personal space behind the seating area. These factors may influence the dining experience for some guests.

Pros: Innovative Korean hand rolls, attentive service, Michelin-starred cuisine, unique tasting menu experience, welcoming atmosphere.
Cons: No vegetarian or vegan options, no gluten-free options, no rice-free options, no egg-free options, no raw seafood options.

4.7

679 9th Ave, New York, NY 10036, USA

(646) 649-3545

Open Now - Closing 9:30 PM

Monday

17:00–21:30

Tuesday

17:00–21:30

Wednesday

17:00–21:30

Thursday

17:00–21:30