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| - I grew up in Renfrew and frequented the Italian Supermarket owned by the family that now own Mercato. I'd go in and stock up and was greeted by one of the "mama's" who always added a little something to my basket as a thank you for shopping here and supporting them. I always loved the experience and felt very special.
I was very excited for the family when they moved to Mission and opened Mercato ( and yes, I understand the family dynamics involved ). I love the deli and will drive across the city for the spicy sausage (sans fennel) to add to my own home made Italian recipes. I will overlook the price on certain items because they are so tasty. The Franca sandwich is my favorite sandwich in Calgary and well worth the wait and price. I will always buy a latte at Mercato, even though Starbucks is across the street.
However, there are very few items I will splurge for in the deli, and I most certainly will not eat in the restaurant again. The first time I visited was for lunch shortly after they opened. After $80 for lunch (for 2 people) without liquor, I left hungry. I get the whole "slow food" thing, but come on.
Our last experience at Mercato was before a 7:30 puck drop at the dome. Our reservation was for 5:30. We FINALLY got our food at 7:05 (the server knew we had a game to go to) and after devouring it, was presented with a ridiculous bill. Keep in mind, we had 2 appetizers, 4 entrees, 4 al a carte items and 2 glasses of wine between 4 people. Let's just say, the bill started with a 4. I'm pretty sure the meal was good, but eating a "gourmet" meal in 10 minutes doesn't do it justice.
I'm not a follower, so I'm not inclined to go to places to see and be seen. I think people will tolerate the ridiculous prices and the off-handed service just so they can say they've eaten here. Not me.
I'll continue to spend my extra money on the 2 or 3 familiar items I used to buy when the market was in Bridgeland; Sausages, a Franca sandwich and a latte.
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