Marani Restaurant

- 97-26 63rd Rd, Rego Park, NY 11374

Welcome to Marani, a culinary gem nestled in the heart of Rego Park, Queens. For New Yorkers seeking a dining experience that's both unique and deeply rooted in tradition, Marani offers an unforgettable journey into the rich and flavorful world of Georgian cuisine. More than just a restaurant, Marani is a cultural hub that brings the renowned hospitality of Georgia to your plate. As the only glatt kosher Georgian restaurant in the USA, it holds a special place in the city's diverse food scene, serving as a testament to the nation's vibrant history and culinary excellence.

The name "Marani" itself means "wine cellar" in Georgian, and this restaurant lives up to its name by offering a selection of fine wines, including Saperavi, a dry red from Georgia itself, a country widely considered one of the oldest wine-making regions in the world. But the wine is just one part of the experience. The menu is a celebration of authentic flavors and hearty, family-style portions. From the savory goodness of Khinkali, Georgian soup dumplings, to the comforting warmth of Chashushuli, a braised beef stew, every dish is crafted with a dedication to traditional recipes. The ambiance is designed to be cozy and inviting, making you feel right at home, whether you're a local or a tourist exploring the city's hidden culinary treasures.

Marani is a place where every dish tells a story. The Pkhali, a trio of spinach, green bean, and eggplant spreads with walnut paste and pomegranate, is a perfect introduction to the cuisine. For those who enjoy rich, savory flavors, the Satsivi, a boneless chicken dish in a creamy walnut sauce, is a must-try. Meat lovers will find plenty to savor, with signature dishes like the succulent Lamb Chops and the flavorful Kebabs from the grill menu. The "Bake to Order" section is particularly noteworthy, featuring classics like the Lobiani, a bean pie, and the iconic Adjaruli, a bread bowl filled with beef, mushrooms, tarragon, and a sunny-side-up egg.

The restaurant's commitment to providing an authentic experience extends beyond the food. The staff is knowledgeable and can help guide you through the menu, ensuring you find the perfect dish to suit your tastes. While some customer reviews have mentioned service inconsistencies during peak hours, many praise the staff's attentiveness and willingness to accommodate dietary restrictions and allergies. Marani is a place that embodies the spirit of Georgian hospitality, inviting you to come with an appetite and get comfortable for a truly satisfying meal.

The restaurant also prides itself on its glatt kosher certification, making it a reliable and trusted destination for the community. The establishment is under the rabbinical supervision of the Vaad HaRabbanim of Queens (VHQ). It's a testament to the owner's vision to bring high-quality, authentic kosher dining to the New York scene, a vision that has been successfully realized since the restaurant's opening in 2013. The space itself is thoughtfully designed, with a separation of meat and dairy kitchens to adhere to kosher laws, each with its own dedicated dining room, ensuring a seamless and compliant experience for all patrons.

Whether you’re a New Yorker looking to try a new kind of comfort food or someone nostalgic for the tastes of Tbilisi, Marani offers a warm and welcoming atmosphere. The generous portions make it an ideal spot for family dinners or group gatherings, where sharing and savoring every dish is part of the fun. With its combination of homestyle flavors, a cozy environment, and an impressive menu, Marani stands out as a true culinary destination in Queens.

Location and Accessibility

Marani is conveniently located at 97-26 63rd Rd in the Rego Park neighborhood of Queens, NY. This area is known for its diverse community, including a significant Georgian and Russian Jewish population, making it the perfect setting for an authentic Georgian dining experience. The restaurant is easily accessible by public transportation and is also a manageable drive from Manhattan, though paid street parking is available for those traveling by car. For visitors, it's a worthwhile venture to explore this part of Queens and discover a truly local gem. The establishment is also designed to be inclusive, offering a wheelchair-accessible entrance, seating, and restroom.

Services Offered

• Dine-in
• Curbside pickup
• Takeout
• Delivery
• Brunch, Lunch, Dinner, and Dessert
• Catering
• Table and Counter service
• Reservations accepted and recommended for dinner

Features / Highlights

• Authentic Georgian Cuisine: A menu full of traditional dishes, from Khinkali dumplings to the famous Adjaruli cheese pie.
• Glatt Kosher: As the only glatt kosher Georgian restaurant in the USA, it provides a unique dining option for the kosher community.
• Impressive Drink Menu: The bar onsite offers a selection of cocktails, beer, and a notable wine list, including Georgian wines.
• Generous Portions: Guests often praise the hearty, family-style portions that are perfect for sharing.
• Cozy Atmosphere: The ambiance is described as casual, cozy, and family-friendly, making it suitable for a variety of occasions.
• Accommodating Staff: The team is willing to assist with dietary restrictions and allergies.
• Convenient Payment Options: Accepts credit cards, debit cards, and NFC mobile payments.
• Wheelchair Accessible: Ensures comfort and accessibility for all guests.

Contact Information

Address: 97-26 63rd Rd, Rego Park, NY 11374, USA

Phone: (718) 569-0600

What is worth choosing

When you visit Marani, you are choosing more than just a meal—you are choosing an experience. The menu is a highlight, and for good reason. The "Bake to Order" section is a particular standout; dishes like the Adjaruli, a bread bowl with beef, mushrooms, tarragon, and a sunny-side egg, take time to prepare but are well worth the wait. Another customer favorite is the Khinkali, Georgian soup dumplings filled with beef, lamb, and herbs, which are a must-try for any first-timer. The Grill Menu also offers excellent options, with the Lamb Kebab and Lula Kebab receiving high praise for their flavor.

For starters, you can't go wrong with the Marani Sampler, which allows you to try a trio of their delicious Pkhali spreads. These flavorful spreads, made from spinach, green beans, or eggplant with walnut paste and pomegranate, perfectly showcase the unique ingredients of Georgian cuisine. The generous portions mean you can easily share with your group and taste a variety of items.

In addition to the food, the warm and welcoming atmosphere makes Marani a great choice for both casual dinners and special occasions. The blend of a cozy, homely feel with an upscale and trendy decor creates a dining environment that is both comfortable and stylish. The restaurant is popular with families, groups, and locals, as well as tourists looking for an authentic taste of New York's cultural diversity. While some reviews mention noise and service issues, many patrons are willing to overlook these minor issues because the food quality is so exceptional. Ultimately, choosing Marani means opting for authentic, flavorful, and hearty Georgian food that will leave you with a lasting and positive impression.

Marani Restaurant

97-26 63rd Rd, Rego Park, NY 11374, USA