Mercer Kitchen

Mercer Kitchen is located in the upscale Mercer Hotel in the heart of SoHo on Mercer and Prince. The restaurant is down a staircase in the center lobby. Although it's in the basement, it has a lot of charm, from exposed brick walls to dynamic lighting. The space is actually pretty big, but some of the corner tables can be cramped. My meal started with a tuna spring roll appetizer. Unlike a traditional fried spring roll, this was cut into sushi-like circles and wrapped in phylo dough. The flavor was unbelievable and different, like lemon grass and kale. I really enjoyed it and the tuna was just barely seared and delicious. Then I had a roasted chicken entrée, that was just like normal chicken. Nothing remarkable about the dish, although the carrots served on the side had a very good glaze. Tea service and cheesecake followed for dessert. Tea is served in an individual pot which is cute, and the cheesecake was fluffy and like a mousse on a graham cracker bottom. Very yummy! The portions were perfect and not over doing it. This eatery is modern and chic, so if you're looking for a fancy night out it might be the spot. Definitely make reservations and you might find yourself elbowing with some celebs. (Pierce Brosnan walked in the door as we were heading out) more

Head down the stairs for a walk on the wild and somewhat steamy side. Mercer kitchen is a sleek and sexy place to dine. The dark setting and attention to designer details makes this a great place for a date or to impress someone. The food can stand up to the flashy design. The kitchen comes up with some interesting taste combos. Any of the Asian fusion dishes work for me. The bartender know what he/she's doing here, don't be afraid to mix it up. more

Overpriced and overrated. I barely got through a meal here. I was ticked I was spending THAT MUCH on a simple entrée (chicken for crying out loud), but was further incensed by the fact that I was still hungry at the end of it. I loved the fries, though. I did not like sitting underneath what looked like subway grating and could barely see inside despite the fact that it was an early summer evening (the grating was still letting in some sunshine, thank goodness, or I couldn't have seen my food). Snotty staff were buzzing about, but not our waiter - he was too busy somewhere else to help us out. Not a fan. At all. more