Maru Sushi Bar

[rating: 4.0/5]

Last Visit: June ’08

EDITED on July 1, 2009

I owe this restaurant a major upgrade and updated review. It’s now become my 1st choice sushi spot in all of Atlanta. Not because they are down the street from me, rather because of all the sushi houses I’ve eaten at, this place exhibits one key ingredient: consistency. Their food is always fresh, creatively designed and in this recession time, their prices are reasonable. I am generally skeptical of buffets, but Maru has changed that. Their $10 all you can eat lunch buffet isn’t their dinner spread, naturally, but it’s a great deal and hands down the best selection of rolls, meats, salads and tempura.

I shouldn’t even bother with reviewing this restaurant. Really.

I eat here at least once a week and sometimes that isn’t enough for me. I come up with reasons to go with my sushi eating partner A. Like my head hurts bad from not having seaweed salad. He’s always so willing and so it makes for even better eating.

Not a restaurant to visit because of the fancy Japanese decor or even ambiance. You really go for the preparation of the food. Of the 7 or so sushi resto’s I’ve dined in, in Atlanta, I will dare say Maru is the 2nd best. The fish selection is standard, yet very fresh and pretty in color and cut. The roll selection is even more impressive with options like the Rainbow roll made up of 6 different fish, each piece being topped with a different one. Not being able to break my old habits, I always order the Unagi Royale which is heavenly with eel inside and on top. The beautiful artwork displayed on my plate with anything I order is picture worthy, every time.

My frequent visits have entitled me to a first name relationship with co-owner Sonhi. She and her husband have done a quiet, yet successful job of creating an inviting locale with Chefs swiftly using their knives and dipping their hands in water bowls at an open bar. On two occasions, I was so hungry I kindly asked to expedite my order. In less than 10 minutes, I was saying grace and breaking my chopsticks. The service is better than timely.

The best thing about Maru Sushi is that I could walk to its door if I was having a withdrawal. Not bad for a place that sits across from my gym, my grocery store, my bank and mail center. Living in Atlanta could only get a bit better.

MARU SUSHI

Wear jeans and a loose top with open toe shoes. Wear a kimono if you wish. You will not be confused with the wait staff.

What NOT to wear: Over the top dressy. You can keep your Louis at home. Sweats might be pushing it, too.

Eat well, love unapologetically, pray with true intention, and take care of yourself.

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