Ithaca Eats: Inside Maru’s Pivot to Authentic Clay Pot Cooking

f you’ve walked down West State Street recently, you might have noticed a subtle but significant change. After eight years as a staple for noodle lovers in Ithaca, Maru Ramen has officially closed its chapter on broth and noodles.

But don’t panic—they aren’t going anywhere.

Owners Chris Kim and Soyong Lee have officially rebranded the space as Maru Korea, launching a completely overhauled menu that trades Japanese-style ramen for a deep dive into authentic, health-conscious Korean cuisine.

The Big Pivot: Why Remove the Ramen?

In the restaurant world, taking your bestselling item off the menu is a risky move. For nearly a decade, "Maru" was synonymous with "Ramen" in Ithaca. However, Kim and Lee decided it was time to return to their roots.

Driven by a desire for authenticity and a shift in dietary trends, the owners noticed that Ithaca diners were increasingly looking for high-protein, low-carb options. The new concept moves away from the carb-heavy noodle bowls to focus on what they call "healthy protein" and wholesome ingredients.

What’s on the Menu?

The star of the new show is Clay Pot Cooking.

Instead of batch-cooking rice, Maru Korea is now serving individual portions cooked to order in clay pots, using a custom blend of rice varieties. It’s a slower, more deliberate style of service designed to enhance flavor and texture.

Highlights include:

• Artisanal Tofu Stews: Featuring organic tofu from a local handmade producer. Options range from the classic Kimchi Stew to Budae (sausage & spam) and Mushroom varieties.

• The Survivors: Fans of the old menu will be relieved to see the Bulgogi (beef and pork) has survived the cut, now served in sizzling skillets.

• Korean Tapas: The appetizer menu has been revamped with shareable plates like Kimchi Arancini (fried kimchi rice balls with mozzarella) and Kimchi Jeon (savory pancakes).

The Verdict

Rebranding is never easy, but Maru Korea feels less like a "change" and more like a maturation. It’s a bold step toward a more specialized, authentic dining experience that adds a new layer of diversity to Ithaca’s food scene.

If you’re missing the noodles, you might have to look elsewhere. But if you’re ready for sizzling clay pots and handmade tofu, it’s time to revisit West State Street.

Maru Korea is located at 512 W State St, Ithaca, NY.