Andrew K.
Yelp
After eating at Maroni's a week ago, I have been really putting off how to review it because I've been truly processing it.
There aren't many tasting menu options in the area, to start. So I was pumped to find this place which offers ~16 courses for $195/person. It is cash only (or check), which is strange, but includes tip/tax and unlimited wine.
The experience ultimately is fascinating. I was expecting a very Italian-influenced night, which at times it was. However, when you walk in you walk into 1960s UK music/decorations (apparently the owner is a big Beatles fan), which really does not seem to connect to the food. The decor is all in line with this. The tables are cozy, which wasn't an issue for us as the place was about 50% full when we went.
In terms of the food, this is also so confusing to me. The following description will be a description of the nonsensical and random chain of events that was the tasting menu. Started with a teacup of lobster bisque, which was lovely (no lobster meat, fine). Then this "medallion" of caviar, which I could've done without. Followed by a California roll, which was fine but seemingly so random (why sushi in an Italian restaurant?). This is when I knew the menu would not really make sense/follow any sort of theme. Oysters and shrimp next. Korean short ribs with a singular gummy bear on top? The rib was fine but I truly have never eaten a heated gummy bear and am not sure I ever wanted to. Kobe beef slider-this was maybe a highlight- with a Heinz packet and 2 tater tots each-strange but delicious. At some point, someone walked around with truffle grilled cheese bites. This was probably my favorite course. Back to courses. Green eggs with a crostini. Pastrami egg roll (this was the most random to me and truly was not well done, why are we putting pastrami in an egg roll?), chicken dish, ravioli, etc.
We ended with meatballs and spaghetti. This was told to be the star of the restaurant and really was not. The spaghetti was very much fine. I was a little disappointed by the meatballs, which they give you to send home with.
Dessert wise, there was a chipwich, mousse, and Crème brûlée. The first two were great! The latter, meh.
The service was excellent and they were really interested in refilling your drinks.
Ultimately, I probably wouldn't pay to go back. Or buy the meatballs to go. It's such a strange tasting menu....If you're without other options in the area it's a solid choice if you live/are staying nearby!