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| - For a long time I was in the camp of "come for the cocktails, stay for more cocktails" when it came to Merchant. The food wasn't bad, I just wasn't overly impressed-and with all the amazing food around town, Merchant just wasn't at the top of my list for the solids. That all changed this week. The bf and I came for Summer Restaurant Week and wow, we were impressed. The homemade ricotta (he had the salad, I had the olives) was a delightful surprise. I had the Merchant burger as my main and per the waitress, the toppings change seasonally. This summer's toppings are pesto (which was incredible), Havarti, bacon (absurdly delicious bacon, that is) and a few other things I can't remember. The burger patty itself wasn't anything special but the bun was perfect and the combo of flavors really tipped this burger over the edge into greatness.
I happened to end up back here a few days later for brunch with a friend. Not being much of a breakfast fan, I went for the fried chicken sandwich. It was awesome. It comes with a carrot-heavy coleslaw and a yummy aioli. I opted for the buffalo sauce on the side and spread it on every other bite or so. Nice flavor combos indeed. My friend thoroughly enjoyed her breakfast burrito.
The cocktails are still really where Merchant shines but, for me, the food finally caught up this week. Go soon and try the "Come hell or high watermelon" cocktail-perfect for a hot summer's day.
Service has always been excellent-prompt, attentive, friendly.
If you find street parking a hassle, there is a city structure across the street.
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