So I'll mention the drink first because that's probably why you went here (or it should be). First off, cordial responsive bartender like that of yesteryear. I don't why this tradition has died in favor of bartenders that tend to ignore you and demand more than a dollar to pop a bottle top, but nay, that is not what MercBar offers. I ordered my go to drink of Campari and Soda. Kudos to knowing what Campari was because he immediately grabbed it without searching. After this drink, I followed up with a "Moscow Mule". Again bartender did not disappoint, quickly yet methodically, indeed caringly, crafted my brew. I was pleased how well cucumbers soften the edge of vodka.
As for the ambiance, I'm a bit confused how to rate it. The clientele seems to be superficially well off and no one was sloppy in this upscale place. However, for the same reasons I was nauseated by investment banking, does this crowd annoy me. Don't get me wrong, I'm as snobby and obnoxious as they come, but I like to think I'm authentic about it and I know it's a fault of mine. I suppose what bothers me about the clientele here, is that bar conversations tend to revolve around name dropping and pronouncing why each person is more accomplished than the next. All in all a decent show, but a tragic, sad show but I would return soooo.....4 stars?