Mari Vanna feels like stepping directly into your eccentric Russian grandmother’s living room – if your grandmother happened to have impeccable taste and a talent for hearty, soul-warming cuisine. Tucked away on East 20th Street, this Flatiron gem brings a slice of old-world Moscow charm to Manhattan in the most delightful way possible.

The three-story townhouse is decked out with vintage chandeliers, floral patterns, family photos, and knickknacks that somehow avoid feeling kitschy and instead create a genuine sense of cozy nostalgia. But the real magic happens when the food arrives. Their pelmeni dumplings come swimming in a light broth with sour cream on the side – simple yet perfect. The cold zakuski appetizer platter offers an excellent introduction to Russian flavors, from delicate herring to the most velvety eggplant caviar you’ve ever tasted.

Don’t skip the house-infused vodkas, particularly the horseradish or dill varieties that complement the rich food perfectly. The staff maintains that perfect balance of attentive without hovering, often delivering unexpected complimentary bites throughout your meal.

For a dining experience that feels both transportive and genuinely fun, Mari Vanna delivers something truly unique in New York’s crowded restaurant scene. Come for the Instagram-worthy interior, stay for the comforting food that feels like a warm hug on a cold night.