Put on your most stylish threads and show up with a date, although not a first date.. the music is always blaring, and that would be awkward. Almost as awkward as people who still think going to the movies on a first date is a good idea. Nothing says "I don't like you" more than sitting in forced silence for two hours. But I digress. Merc Bar.. That place is quite dark and sleek inside -- very much a lounge. The drinks are all mostly $10+, but all of the bartenders I've been served by have been more than competent in their mixology skills.
This is a little piece of New York or Chicago nestled in between an ice cream shop and some other place.. I always forget what that other place is. But a visit to the Merc should be done at least once or twice.