Mari Vanna

Mari Vanna Restaurant Review:

An elegant Russian restaurant in the heart of downtown DC is a surprising find. And one obvious reason for Mari Vanna’s popularity is that unlike its competitors in the eatery-rich city, it resembles an upscale farmhouse with flowered wallpaper, wood-and-glass cabinets holding china and glassware, wooden tables and comfortable upholstered chairs, hanging chandeliers and a cozy upstairs setting for quiet conversations. Eating downstairs in the boisterous bar area certainly curtails chatting, so head up to the second story. The menu ranges from cured herring, borscht and pirozhki to caviar and Russian blinis, roast duck and beef Stroganoff. For a solidly Russian meal, try the tender meat-filled dumplings and a side of the hearty cheese bread. Or opt for the chicken Kiev, a rich chicken-vegetable stew. Ask the waiter to suggest a wine pairing. Of course, for those who tipple, orders of Russian vodka round out the meal. So do the typical desserts; the Medovik and Kiev cake are good choices, and those who love gooey pastries should go for the napoleon.