Introduction to Bar Mercer
Bar Mercer serves elevated food with the vibes of an English pub. A new restaurant in Soho is bringing the feel of a hometown pub with an elevated menu to the neighborhood. Bar Mercer is the latest project from restaurateur John McDonald and Executive Chef Preston Clark, bringing a sophisticated yet welcoming environment to West Houston Street.
Background and Concept
McDonald is no stranger to the neighborhood — he has been in Bar Mercer’s location for the past 15 years, previously running the restaurant Burger & Barrel (which closed during the COVID pandemic) in the same spot, and later Bar Tulix. After discussing it with Clark, McDonald decided it was time to reinvigorate the space. “We just started a conversation saying, ‘Why don’t we go back to kind of an old school New York with a little English-influenced pub with a high-level menu, big wine list?’” said McDonald. “That’s how it started. Preston and I started cooking and doing specials and running things quietly without anybody knowing — the restaurant was still open as Bar Tulix. We gradually just evolved this idea again like kind of in darkness and then in January, we unveiled it.”
Ambiance and Menu
Bar Mercer offers the ambiance of an English pub but with a refined, elevated menu. It was important to McDonald that the space remain approachable and unpretentious, both with the food and with the overall experience. The menu features a curated raw bar, a selection of small plates such as Steak Tartare, Grilled Prawns, Housemade Pigs in a Blanket and Hamachi Crudo, and mains such as Fish & Chips, Filet Au Poivre, and Hangover Pasta. The restaurant also boasts a robust wine program and a variety of spirits to pair with the meal.
Creating a Neighborhood Spot
When reworking the space, McDonald wanted to make Bar Mercer feel like a place that you’ve been to before, with that comfortable feeling of your hometown pub that always delivers on good food and good vibes. One of the most important things for McDonald and Clark was to create a space that people would want to return to, a neighborhood spot that they felt that Soho was lacking. “I live in the neighborhood, I live on the block. I really want a place that I can go to at least once a week, and that’s what this does for me,” said McDonald.
Customer Feedback and Future Plans
Though Bar Mercer has only been open for a short while, McDonald says that the feedback has been stellar, with many customers remembering the legacy of Burger & Barrel and loving what is now Bar Mercer. As the restaurant continues to grow, McDonald’s main hope is that customers will see the expertise that Clark brings to the table and how he will help make Bar Mercer a neighborhood staple. “I just hope that people recognize Preston’s talent and his background, and I think that already in a short window of time, I do see the appreciation for that,” said McDonald.
Conclusion
Bar Mercer is a unique addition to the Soho dining scene, offering a blend of English pub vibes and elevated cuisine. With its approachable atmosphere and expertly crafted menu, it’s sure to become a staple in the neighborhood. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, Bar Mercer is a must-visit destination for anyone looking for a great dining experience.
FAQs
Q: Where is Bar Mercer located?
A: Bar Mercer is located at 25 West Houston St.
Q: What type of cuisine does Bar Mercer serve?
A: Bar Mercer serves elevated food with an English pub influence.
Q: Does Bar Mercer have a wine program?
A: Yes, Bar Mercer has a robust wine program and a variety of spirits to pair with the meal.
Q: Can I make a reservation at Bar Mercer?
A: Yes, you can make a reservation at Bar Mercer by visiting their website at barmercer.com.
Q: What are the hours of operation for Bar Mercer?
A: The hours of operation for Bar Mercer are not specified, but you can find more information on their website.
