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About
Mari's Japanese Cuisine
Welcome to the delightful world of Mari's Japanese Cuisine, your next go-to spot for savory Japanese salads and sushi, located at 2049 Van Vranken Ave., Schenectady, NY 12308. With a reputation that far exceeds its unpretentious exterior, Mari's beckons both locals and visitors alike with an authentic taste of Japan right here in the heart of Schenectady.
Step inside and experience a cozy ambiance that embraces simplicity, allowing the food to take center stage. As echoed in the warm praises of patrons, the service is not only efficient but also imbued with a personal touch, largely thanks to the caring staff, including the owner, Mari herself.
- Salad Selection: On Saturdays, indulge in their special lunch salads that excite the palate. The Seaweed Salad—served atop red cabbage and sprinkled with sesame seeds—is a refreshing delight at just $8.00. For those who crave excitement, the Spicy Crab Salad, tossed with zesty mayo and garnished with flying fish roe, scallions, and a bed of crisp lettuce at $8.50, is a must-try.
- Hearty Udon: Beyond salads, Mari’s offers a varied udon selection that stands out. The Vegetarian Udon presents a warm bowl of goodness, packed with noodles and edamame for $9.00. For a heartier version, try the Vegetable Nabeyaki Udon, brimming with tofu, spinach, and tempura, priced at $15.00.
- Vegetarian Sushi Rolls: Sushi aficionados can delight in the assortment of vegetarian rolls, such as the Radish Sushi Roll and Seaweed Salad Sushi Roll, each priced at just $5.00. Expect careful presentation and freshness that elevates the sushi experience.
Encouraging testimonials reveal the essence of Mari's. Happy diners like Hanna P. proclaim it as their favorite restaurant, raving about the deliciousness that belies its exterior. Reviewers appreciate the affordable prices and the swift service, but it's the sheer quality of dishes—like the highly recommended gyoza and miso soup—that keep them coming back.
On a weekday lunch, Jeremy C. found pleasure in a limited yet expertly crafted sushi selection, complemented by a bowl of flavorful soup that proved satisfactory. It’s evident from multiple reviews that Mari’s careful attention to detail and fresh ingredients make every bite worthwhile.
Let’s not forget those intimate dining experiences. Molly M., who celebrated an anniversary here, highlighted the exceptional service and original menu items, such as the eggplant with sweet miso sauce. Meanwhile, Andrea C. pointed out the phenomenal wasabi shumai, emphasizing the use of real wasabi that sets a new standard for spice!
In conclusion, Mari's Japanese Cuisine is a hidden gem that deserves every bit of its glowing acclaim. Whether you're in the mood for fresh sushi, comforting noodles, or delightful salads, Mari's has something to satiate every appetite. Don’t miss the chance to visit this exceptional eatery—the culinary treasures await you!
People talk
Our Guestbook
“ My FAVORITE restaurant!!! So gooood. The location doesn't reflect how GOOD the food is but i would DEFINITELY RECOMMEND going here. My family and I have been going here for years. Prices are totally reasonable and DELICIOUS. The woman that works here is the sweetest and the survice is so fast. I'm greeted with a smile and such an amazing atmosphere every single time. Their gyoza and miso soup is to die for. Any sushi on the menu is extraordinary. ”
“ I was surprisingly pleased with my early weekday (sushi) lunch in this stand-alone restaurant, with an unassuming and barely distinctive exterior. As the attentive server escorted me to the 7-seat sushi bar (photo) - I found the interior was also minimally decorated, but good news! the giant TV was only visible from a private side area. I was presented a menu without photos, of which I always approve, but on the other hand, waribashi and paper napkins are their standard for lunch. Although the sushi selections were not that extensive, I was able to order a couple of rolls and a few nigiri, as usual, following a satisfying soup. The plating of the main was simple and unadorned, (photo) but competent, with excellent wasabi. I won't say freshly ground today, because I didn't watch the personable chef grind it right in front of me. But very good, and extremely spicy. The nigiri was good, with the sweetened tamago clearly rolled, not "egg cake"/frittata and the ikura and hamachi both very fresh. Also, individual nigiri had a small dab of wasabi under the fish, a step often omitted by chefs here in the Capital Region. The only mistake on the plate was the unagi - charred carbon black edges during reheating, and unfortunately, the chef still served them. Both maki were much smaller than I normally expect, but very well done. The spicy hamachi was surprisingly very spicy, and the pleasant unagi cucumber satisfied. Overall, I was happy with my lunch, and I will most definitely return soon. 2019 06 28. S 16. ”
“ My fiancé and I have come here a few times, most recently for our anniversary last week. Each time we've come we've had excellent food made with fresh fish. We've had the same waitress each time and she's absolutely delightful. I can't speak for any other stuff, but I was very impressed with how knowledgeable, courteous and friendly this woman is. Menu items are original- try the eggplant with sweet miso sauce! And sushi is tight and beautifully presented. Overall, this place earns the 5 stars! We'll be back in soon. ”
“ It's been a while since someone's reviewed this place, so I'm thinking it's improved over the last year and a half. I went to Mari's for the first time on a Friday night in a snowstorm and the place was still pretty full. Our waitress was very attentive. You have to try the wasabi shumai, they're fantastically spicy! They use real wasabi, and it is *potent.* I used about half as much wasabi as I do when I get the bright green stuff at other places. Our sushi came quickly, and it was as good as places I've been to on Long Island. The spicy tuna was a lot spicier than others I've had in the past, and the eel was cooked just right. Mari herself came around to each table to say hi and thanks for coming. The prices were good, the food was better. I'll definitely be back. ”
