Bar Mercurio

Elaine and I had just seen a terrible film. We needed to discuss why we thought it was so bad. Elaine suggested a short walk to this favorite fine dining spot in the neighborhood. It was early yet the restaurant was almost filled. By the time we left it was packed. This is a family run business and it shows. Both L’Espresso (across the road) and Bar Mercurio are owned by the family. Mother still makes the bread and let me tell you it is delicious. The white bean paste, a glass of wine and that delicious bread would make a fine dinner for me anytime. Theresa, the daughter, is mainly at L’Espresso and I greatly admire the friendly efficient way she manages that restaurant. Brother Joe and other family members are always in touch with the guests and make sure all is done to perfection.

At lunch there is always lovely jazz music playing in the background. You order your food at the counter and you are called when it has been prepared. The food is so fresh and tasty and absolutely authentic Italian.

In the evening candle light and full table service makes this a delightful place to dine. Do make a reservation because this is one hot spot.

Everybody is greeted as if they are family members. These servers are extremely attentive and good. I have always felt that the food was superior, fresh and beautifully presented.

Insalata Mercurio offers mesclun, apple, parmeggiano chards, sautéed mushrooms, with a house vinaigrette.($10.00) Carpaccio Di Tonno is so delicious with tuna carpaccio served on a dollop of salsa verde layered on a bed of shredded mango.($14.00) Calamari Al Ferri are Cajun-spiced calamari served on a mango salad.($11.00) Antipasto di Beets is so delicious. I have enjoyed this salad with beet wedges, pine nut sprinkle and gorgonzola cheese.($12.00)

On this visit I had the need for a pasta fix. I was not disappointed with my Linguine Al Frutti Di Mare. The linguine was perfectly al dente. The sea food was plentiful and very tasty. The Al Pomodoro Sauce was so tasty and fully flavored.($25.00) Elaine also enjoyed her Orecchietti Della Casa cooked with rapini, white Tuscan beans and aglio e Olio.($18.00)

The pizzas are large and delicious. I used to meet my grandson here for lunch every Wednesday when he was going to school across the road. Each week Alex would order the Pizza Margarita.($11.00) The Pizza Gorgonzola tops the delicious crust with gorgonzola cheese, mozzarella, caramelized onions, walnuts and apple.($16.00) Pizza Yuppie features toppings of pomodoro, mozzarella, in house smoked salmon and sun-dried tomatoes and chevre.($17.00)

If you prefer a full entrée you might want to try the Bistecca. USDA Prime tenderloin steak is served with in- house frittes and seasonal vegetables.($49.00) Cappone Arrostito offers roasted crispy and honey glazed capon, house frittes, chipotle aioli and seasonal vegetables.($26.00)

Check the pastries in the counter as you enter. You may be tempted to save some room for these tasty desserts.

I love this restaurant. I have always had superb food, beautifully plated and served in a warm atmosphere. I salute this family for running an outstanding restaurant. I will keep going back.Elaine and I had a wonderful evening in spite of the terrible movie and the downpour of rain as we left the restaurant.