Marian Cocktails & Kitchen

I was genuinely excited to try this upscale vegan restaurant for my partner’s birthday—especially given how few vegan options exist in the area. We even made a 40-minute drive, trusting the reputation of the chef behind Element, which we’ve previously enjoyed. Unfortunately, this experience was a major letdown. Several of my dishes arrived incomplete or incorrectly prepared—an entire vegan caviar component was missing, the wrong noodles were used, and a different cheese was added without warning. Having worked in fine dining myself, I understand that mistakes happen, but what’s unacceptable is the lack of communication. No one informed us of any substitutions or offered an alternative, let alone a courtesy apology or discount (until we tracked down the owner). Service was inattentive throughout. While we were told there was an event later that evening, we were also assured we could still have a full dining experience. I requested our courses to be paced out over time, but the server and kitchen brought out everything at once—three courses within minutes. We felt rushed and pressured to finish a $70+ meal in under thirty minutes. It cheapened the entire experience. While we eventually received a partial discount—after we brought the issues up—it shouldn’t have taken that level of prompting. Hospitality is about more than food; it’s about care, communication, and respect for your guests’ time and experience. If the restaurant wasn’t equipped to properly serve us that evening, I would’ve much preferred to be told to reschedule. All in all, a disappointing and disorganized night. For those craving vegan food in the area, I’d recommend sticking with Element instead. They clearly have service—and guest experience—down to a much finer art.

It’s so nice to have another vegan restaurant in downtown Raleigh! My husband and I visited after work on a Friday and made a reservation just in case. We tried the lumpia (Filipino Cigars), Gnocchi Caesar salad and Offbeast Brisket. Everything was really flavorful and we felt that the portion sizes were perfect. I can’t wait to come back and try more of their menu! PS they do a weekend brunch that also sounds incredible.

Delicious brunch with great service! Everyone that worked there was very welcoming and kind. The food itself was delightful

Best vegan brunch we’ve ever had, hands down.

Not a bad place to grab a drink and share small plates of appetizers with friends while we caught up. Love how every time I have a question about how something is prepared it’s answered every time. And an added bonus is the staff was wonderful and welcoming also.

So tasty, we tried and shared bbq and parm chix sandos, tofu noodle dishes, and half the appetizers, and EVERYTHING was banging! Can't wait to return! Love a vegan joint! Thank you Marian!

I went here for brunch and was really disappointed with my food. I ordered the Benedict and the English muffin was soggy and bland, sauce was chunky and bland (not even close to hollandaise), slice of tomato wasn’t ripe—I am vegetarian and cook vegan food frequently and this gives vegan food a bad rap. There is no reason for this meal to be so bland! The pastry basket was similarly disappointing, bland donuts and soft (not flaky at all) croissants. They don’t take advantage of what’s possible with vegan baking. I also saw that the fruit cup was mostly chopped apples—this is in June when we have the most delicious local berries readily available! It seemed to me that they value aesthetics over the food actually tasting good. I’m not sure if it was an off day or what but I won’t be back to find out.

Visited our first time - for our 50th wedding anniversary... and it couldn't have been better! The food, food options and staff were awesome. Looking forward to returning.

My second time coming here. Food service and drinks were great. I got to meet the owner who is a very nice guy. I found out he owns ELEMENT which I also love 💕. It's amazing to finally have a vegan restaurant that serves more upscale dishes in Raleigh. I've found a new regular spot for all vegan food I will be coming back to many times 😊

Marion is a beautiful spot with a lot to love. The space is open and comfortable with plenty of seating, a nice bar area, and a great patio for when the weather’s good. I’ve been twice now and had a great experience both times. The staff was kind, attentive, and genuinely helpful. The food is delicious. My favorites so far are the oyster mushroom Rockefeller and the hot hunni chik’n sandwich, both really flavorful and satisfying. It’s a great place whether you’re going on a date or meeting up with a group. I’m already looking forward to going back.