Yup, its quirky and, as you note, it's not, for the most part, fusion (which is OK by me) but rather a mix of straight-ahead Korean and French dishes.But hey, it works! The food is interesting and good, the service attentive, and the atmosphere is pleasant and relaxing. I like going to places owned and run by local people trying to do something they believe in. For the most part, Cary/Morrisvile/Apex is chainland, and we really do need more locally run places that serve food reflecting thought and creativity and care. This place certainly fits that bill.

We went Saturday night (6 of us) --fabulous!! For the most part, the menu selections are either Korean or French. The lemongrass creme brule would represent one of the "fusion" dishes. (It was quite good.) We had the soups--the regularly featured sweet potato leek soup (excellent) and a special that I didn't try but everyone who did raved about. The smoked pork Ssam appetizer was full of flavor and the Shrimp & Corn Casserole with Sherry Cream was rich and delicious. Their pork dumplings were probably the best I've ever had. Our entres were quite good. I had the special--braised veal cheek with pureed parsnips which was solid, straight ahead French bistro cooking. Others had the bibimbop which they all enjoyed. The have a small but decent wine selection and several good beer choices. No mixed drinks. All six of us loved this place!!

I ate at Maru twice last week-lunch and dinner. When I went for lunch, the staff explained what they're trying to do there--a mix of Korean and Japanese, but heaviest on the Japanese side. The Bi-Bim-Bob I had for lunch was quite good. I took a big crowd there a few nights later for dinner. All were pleased with their dishes. My shashimi platter was as good as I've had in this area--the fish very fresh, the presentation excellent, and the washabi super hot like I like it. Others ordered a variety of rolls which were well-presented. I'm not a big roll guy, but the ones I had were quite good and the people who ordered them really raved about the quality and inventiveness of the offering. They've done a good job with the decor making this a nice place to spend some time. Give Maru a try!!!