Bar Mercurio

Bar Mercurio 270 Bloor St West 416 960 3877

Bar Mercurio has been an institution for years at Bloor St. and St. George. The family run business continues to have the authentic feeling of an Italian bistro. I was pleased to see the updated aesthetics. The large paintings near the entrance add so much to the ambiance. The large vase of flowers on the bar is part of the warm welcoming spirit. Brother Joe (Guiseppe) or sister Theresa are always in attendance to make sure all is proceeding in the most positive way for the clients. Joe and Theresa’s mother used to prepare the pasta and the sauces. She still works daily running around with so much positive energy. Today she was our server. What an authentic touch. She has such a warm smile and is so gracious. I often feel as if I am dining in their Italian home.
The food is outstanding. The Pizzas have a thin crust and are so tasty. The Pasta is home made, prepared al dente and melts in your mouth. There is always variety on the menu. This is gourmet food in delightful surroundings.
The place is always busy. A reservation is essential.
Two of us were dining at lunch. A daily special menu is offered. The Zuppa was a Roasted Butternut Squash with Asiago cheese.($6.00) The Pesce daily specialty was a Pan Seared Tilapia Fillet over sautéed rapini, cauliflower and root vegetables.($16.00)
The fresh pasta selection was a Fresh Fettucini with roast beef and grape tomatoes in a butter wine sauce.($15.00)
My dining companion opted for the Omlet Affuumicata.($14.00) I had raved about the omelets and have enjoyed them on numerous occasions. It was a healthy portion and served with a side salad of mixed greens. The omelet was fluffy and filled with cheese and smoked salmon.
I was in the mood for a pasta dish. The fresh pasta is a gourmet specialty. The Ravioli ai Gamberi ($18.00) was mouth watering delicious. The ravioli was stuffed with cheese. The numerous pieces were in a very special garlic oil sauce. The gamberi were flavorful and very moist. This was one of my favorite dishes. Every bite was perfection. My only concern was the amount of that fresh chopped garlic. I actually asked for a little piece of fresh parsley to cleanse the palate. It worked perfectly.
On many occasions I have enjoyed the Pizzas. They are thin crusted and offered with a variety of toppings.
I adore dining here. The atmosphere is warm and inviting. There is nothing pretentious. The food is always outstanding.
Try to save room for a Dolce. The Assorted Biscotti are still my favorite. Who doesn’t like a Chocolate Flourless Cake? Espresso Infused Panna Cotta is another delectable choice.
You can’t go wrong. Close your eyes and point to the menu and you are guaranteed a gourmet feast. There is a reason I keep coming back.