Rating:

Last Visit: February ‘08

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.