Marjorie returns with a new location, but the same great food - Review - Seattle - The Infatuation
"When Marjorie closed its doors on Capitol Hill in 2023, the goodbye party attendance rivaled a 90s boyband farewell tour. It seemed like everyone in Seattle came out to say adieu to this dining institution. Its revival in the Central District, however, has come as a surprise and delight. Marjorie is back with a vengeance, churning out the same level of great dishes and welcoming atmosphere that many remember. Or even better, introducing itself to a whole new crowd. Marjorie’s new location is exactly where you should go for a special, yet approachable, dinner with an updated menu that stays true to the restaurant’s eclectic roots. Each dish here is distinct and a fun mash-up of flavors. We’re talking braised brisket with pink peppercorn dukkah and satsuma vinegar, or hushpuppies that when dipped in an arbol-spiked honey butter create a bite that conjures up warm and tingly feelings of holiday time around a fireplace. Take advantage of their stylish dining room complete with navy blue-hued walls and paintings from local artists. Or reserve a cozy area for when a private birthday party's non-negotiables are mac and cheese and a perfectly tart lemonade. No matter where you sit, the hum of friendly conversations and the ever-changing menu of comfort food already make this feel like a neighborhood mainstay where regulars identify their usual order, secure a favorite table, and plan their next dinner here immediately. Food Rundown Hushpuppies These sweet and sticky cornmeal balls feel like a rite of passage for any meal here. Our only minor complaint is that some come out a bit darker from the deep fryer than others. But you sort of don’t notice when bits of melty bacon get thrown on top and turn the whole dish up a notch. photo credit: Kayla Sager-Riley Seared Albacore Tuna There’s a lot going on with this dish—in the best way. Crispy, herby potatoes, a generous smattering of harissa, capers, and preserved lemons all get along well. And the meaty tuna is a mild, sturdy canvas that lets all those loud toppings do their thing. photo credit: Kayla Sager-Riley Jerk Chicken We would eat everything on this plate separately, together, upside down—it doesn't matter. The juicy chicken wing cooked in a mouth-warming spicy jerk marinated, the tender coconutty braised greens, and winter squash in a shiny shell of delicate molasses are all perfect on their own or as a harmonious whole. photo credit: Makena Yee Mac And Cheese A mix of sharp funky cheeses, springy noodles, and a golden brown top make this mac and cheese something we order on repeat. Is there a pool of butter and oil at the bottom of the dish? Yes. Do we ignore it because the whole thing is delicious? Also, yes. photo credit: Kayla Sager-Riley Mushroom, Chicory, Parm Bread Pudding This savory take on bread pudding is something you can skip. While the top has a nice herby crust, the undercooked center tastes like soggy bread soaked in mushroom broth. photo credit: Kayla Sager-Riley Jalapeño-Marinated Maitake Mushroom For a restaurant that does vegetables well, this dish really misses the mark. The grits are bland and the maitake mushrooms taste raw and under seasoned. If you're a vegetarian, stick to ordering sides and appetizers." - Kayla Sager-Riley
