Chelsea shines a little bit brighter with the addition of Marsanne, a mediterranean restaurant opened a few months ago by Michelin-starred Chef Zivko Radojicic. It’s the kind of place that effortlessly blends sophistication with a welcoming charm—a rarity in the city’s ever-evolving dining scene. On a rainy evening, I stopped by with high expectations, which Marsanne delivered in spades.
Our meal began with a go-to starter: a half dozen oysters. Apparently winter is oyster season – surprising, right? They’ve always conjured up images of sitting at a waterfront bar on a summer evening, but the colder temperatures make oysters more succulent, clean, and flavorful. Fresh, briny, and served with a delicate mignonette, they were the ideal opener. Each ‘sip of the ocean’ was a reminder of why simplicity, when executed well, can be so satisfying. Next, the lemon artichoke dip arrived, stealing the spotlight with its creamy texture and bright citrus notes. Paired with a soft, warm pita, this dish struck a perfect harmony between indulgent and refreshing. Marsanne’s culinary prowess really shines through with this one, and I would devour it for every meal if I could.
Another seafood starter arrived as soon as we finished our dip: the pan seared scallops. Scallops are constantly delightful, but Marsanne’s creative touches brought a novelty to the dish that thoroughly impressed me. A cauliflower puree, roasted eggplant topping, and pine nut sprinkle added that mediterranean flair to make this dish standout from the hundreds of other seared scallop appetizers being served around the city simultaneously.
For our mains, the steak frites were cooked to a perfect medium-rare, and the cut was tender and flavorful. Their green peppercorn sauce brought a zingy, spiced flavor that paired perfectly with a bite of juicy steak or with a crispy golden fry. It was a distinctive way to bring in the peppery taste and creamy steak dressing all in one – the kind of choice that sets Marsanne’s food apart. The agnolotti rounded out the meal with a unique touch of decadence. A flavorful chicken confit pan sauce coated each bite, with carbonara filling oozing out luxuriously if you cut into a pillow. The chicken folded into the pasta was perfectly tender and juicy, and the whole dish was incredible creative: sort of like an elevated pasta version of a perfect glossy roast. Finally, the truffle polenta was another showstopper – my second favorite dish of the meal, behind only the lemon artichoke ricotta. Velvety and fragrant, with the truffle adding a luxurious depth, it’s one of those dishes you secretly hope no one else wants to share.
Each bite of their Marsanne’s was nuanced, balancing richness with a gentle freshness that left me thoroughly satisfied but already planning my return. Their innovative food combined classic dishes with distinctive style and elegance. With its thoughtful menu, attentive service, and welcoming atmosphere, it’s clear the team here has perfected the art of dining. I can’t wait to return to Marsanne, and next time, I’m getting two orders of that truffle polenta. Book your reservation here asap!
