New York Daily Photo Analytics

Monday, May 07, 2007

Marumi

This is Marumi at 546 LaGuardia Place - my favorite Japanese restaurant. It's kind of a cliche - have you ever noticed how everyone in NYC seems to know "a place for great Japanese" or "the best Japanese restaurant"? Apparently it's a necessary credential for being a New Yorker. I won't make any comparative claims here - when I found Marumi, I essentially stopped looking. One thing I really like is that the owner, Takashi Sando, is on site (that's him in the back left of the photo) - he is no nonsense and runs this place very efficiently and like a well-oiled machine. Everything is very consistent and fresh (of paramount importance with raw fish). The service is excellent - in several years of going there I don't recall one mistake. Marumi is reasonably priced (inexpensive for Japanese) and in the heart of New York University country, so students abound. The ambience is very social, pleasant and casual. The place gets crowded; most nights there are lines (which move fairly quickly). Much of the clientele is Japanese and local regulars - a good sign. It has been in business 16 years. On a refreshing note, this place is about the food - alcohol is available, but never pushed; dessert is typically not even offered. Get there before 7:15. Try a Bento box or broiled salmon. Best kept "secret"? - their spicy sashimi salad ...

5 comments:

riniroo said...

The food, the colors, the real people... Thanks for creating a moment in time for all to share.

Brian Dubé said...

riniroo;
Thanks. The atmosphere is so comfortable to me know - it feels like home.
Brian

Annalisa said...

I love Sushi. Your post made me hungry!

Anonymous said...

I really like your photography. I hope I have told you that before. I am never disappointed in it or in your narratives. I always learn something.

I was stationed in Japan after the war and during their reconstruction period and learned to love Sapporo beer and Nippon Beer and osoba noodles sold on the street.

I got to fly last night. I mean I just dove in and flew. You can find out how on my blog post today.

P. Graham said...

I always love hearing suggestions of new places to eat. I hope to check it out soon. Thanks :)