Foodies and Japanophiles rejoice! Northern Virginia has just welcomed a truly unique destination: Marufuji, a sprawling 18,000-square-foot Japanese market in Tysons. This isn't your average Asian grocery store; Marufuji is a carefully curated emporium offering everything from sushi-grade fish flown in from Toyosu Market to rare Japanese snacks, wagyu beef, beauty products, and even a full-service cafe. Get ready to embark on a culinary and cultural journey without leaving the DMV area.
A Japanese Food Lover's Paradise: What to Expect at Marufuji
Marufuji, a spin-off of the East Coast chain Maruichi, has chosen Tysons for its DC-area debut. The name change was intentional, ensuring no confusion with another Japanese market in Rockville. This strategic move promises to bring a truly unique experience to Northern Virginia.
Unparalleled Freshness: From Toyosu Market to Your Plate
One of Marufuji's biggest draws is its commitment to providing the freshest, highest-quality ingredients. Seafood lovers will be thrilled by the vast selection of sushi-grade fish, sourced directly from the renowned Toyosu Market in Japan and supplemented with domestic options like bluefin tuna from Boston. Prepare to be amazed by the selection of uni, ranging from smaller, more accessible trays to premium, high-end options.
Meat enthusiasts will find themselves equally impressed by the selection of Japanese wagyu and Sakura Wagyu from Wisconsin. Marufuji's unique ordering process ensures maximum freshness: the beef is only processed and shipped upon order, guaranteeing some of the freshest wagyu available in the United States.
A Market Inspired by Japanese Department Stores
Drawing inspiration from the bustling food halls found in Japanese department stores, Marufuji features a tempting array of prepared side dishes. Think seaweed salads, kabocha squash salad, chili shrimp, and more, all available by the pound.
A Treasure Trove of Japanese Groceries
Beyond the fresh offerings, Marufuji's shelves are stocked with a vast selection of Japanese grocery staples and unique finds. Discover:
- Pantry Essentials: Pickles, noodles, fresh produce, bonito flakes, natto, instant ramen, and an entire wall dedicated to different varieties of rice.
- Snacks Galore: Indulge in everything from spicy garlic rice crackers to exclusive matcha Kit Kats.
- Sauces and Seasonings: Explore an aisle dedicated to Japanese sauces, including the highly recommended marudaizu soy sauce, made with whole soybeans for a richer, more nuanced flavor.
- Exclusive Imports: Discover products you won't find anywhere else in the area, such as non-alcoholic canned Suntory wines and high-balls, and delectable "butter cakes" imported directly from Hokkaido.
Dine-In Delights: The Marufuji Cafe
Beyond the grocery aisles, Marufuji features a 48-seat cafe offering a variety of Japanese dishes. Enjoy:
- Hearty Meals: Tonkatsu curry, wagyu-topped gyudon rice bowls, and more.
- Fresh Sushi and Bowls: Sushi handrolls and chirashi bowls with salmon and ikura.
- Beverages: Matcha lattes and Ogawa Coffee from Kyoto.
More Than Just Food: Home Goods and More
Marufuji isn't just about food; it's a celebration of Japanese culture. Explore a dedicated section for home goods, featuring Japanese beauty products, ceramics, kitchenware, and charming gifts like Pokemon socks and Shiba Inu tote bags.
Exciting Events and Demonstrations
Keep an eye out for upcoming events and demonstrations, including whole-tuna-cutting demonstrations, offering a unique glimpse into Japanese culinary traditions.
Visiting Marufuji: Location and Key Details
- Location: 8520 Leesburg Pike, Vienna, VA (Tysons area)
- Focus: Japanese grocery items, fresh seafood and meat, prepared foods, cafe, home goods.
- Key Features: Direct imports from Japan, fresh ingredients, unique product selection, cafe, events and demonstrations.