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Mercat a La Planxa Reviews List

Mercat a La Planxa

Mercat a La Planxa features an extraordinary selection of tapas dishes from cut-to-order charcuterie and cheeses to fresh seafood, steaks and chops, all inspired by Barcelona & Spain's Catalan region. The impressive menu includes an emphasis on meats and seafood served a la planxa or grilled-to-order. At the bar enjoy a tempting array of seasonally inspired sangrias, Spanish-styled cocktails and martinis, and for the wine lover choose from our extensive collection of Spanish cavas, and our carefully selected wine list featuring 40 Spanish wines available by the bottle or by the glass. Private dining available in the VIP area, La Veranda, which over looks the entire Mercat.
See more Mercat a La Planxa details
384 Current Reviews
Summary of Diner Ratings & Reviews
Overall 
4.2 / 5
(Outstanding) 4.2 / 5
(384 Reviews)
Open Ratings Snapshot
Rating Breakdown 384 reviews
5 stars
(159)
4 stars
(175)
3 stars
(36)
2 stars
(13)
1 star
(1)
Food 
4.4 / 5
(Outstanding) 4.4 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Outstanding) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
2.5 / 3
Energetic
Filter Reviews By:
Diners classify this restaurant as:
  • fit for foodies(266)
  • good for groups(164)
  • special occasion(159)
  • hot spot(107)
  • scenic view(65)
  • neighborhood gem(63)
Mercat a La Planxa Reviews List
Review 1 for Mercat a La Planxa
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/17/2013
Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Great food at reasonable prices, with great service."
Dined on 5/17/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, kid-friendly, hot spot
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Review 2 for Mercat a La Planxa
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Great Mother's Day

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/11/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"My wife and I had a tremendous time. The food was great and our waiter was fantastic!!!Ku"
Dined on 5/11/2013
Special Features: special occasion
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Review 3 for Mercat a La Planxa
Overall rating 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5

Que Lastima

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/12/2013
Food 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Service 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"For three people we got two salads, three vegetables, and the chicken paella. It was clearly too much food, but the waiter didn't warn us -or at least confirm with us that we understood- just how much food we were ordering-which knocked him down from a 3 to a 2 star rating. The mushrooms were outstanding. Everything else was a disappointment-salty but otherwise not very flavorful. For the quality of the food, I would have been much happier at Café Iberico or Quartino. For the price, I can name a dozen other places I would have rather been. Oh well, it reminds me to always be wary of places on Michigan Ave."
Dined on 5/12/2013
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Review 4 for Mercat a La Planxa
Overall rating 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5

Tapas like you have never seen...

OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/09/2013
Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"This is a lot more than cheese and tomato sauce to dip crusty bread...unique and novel spins on tapas, the traditional Spanish "small plates". Too many wonders to describe. Just go. If you like this type of fare, you won't be disappointed."
Dined on 5/09/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups
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Review 5 for Mercat a La Planxa
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Delicious Tapas!

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/09/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"The food here was terrific and there was a wide array of small, medium and larger dining options. It was easy to see how Jose Garces earned the title of Iron Chef! Our waiter was very knowledgeable as to ingredients, preparation and portion sizes as well as the specialty cocktails-which were also very inventive and delicious. As the place filled up, service got a tad slow. We ordered dessert just in time to be able to finish and get to a show at the Auditorium Theater around the corner. The table next to us inquired about ordering dessert but the waiter did let them know that the kitchen was a bit behind and apologized as he knew they had theater tickets as well-not something most places would do. I most certainly will be going back!"
Dined on 5/09/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, special occasion
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Review 6 for Mercat a La Planxa
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/10/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"A great experience. Both the food and service were excellent. We'll definitely go again."
Dined on 5/10/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, vibrant bar scene, romantic, hot spot, special occasion
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Review 7 for Mercat a La Planxa
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Mercat shines again

OpenTable Diner
Dined on 4/29/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"We've been to Mercat many times, and we are always amazed at how good it always is. On our most recent visit, there were some new items on the menu that were superb. Old standbys continued to be deliscious. We tend to stick to the traditional tapas, since we can sample more dishes. Though we are carnivores, we love the non-meat dishes more, although it's hard to pass up anything with bacon or pork. I love the all-Spanish wine list. Spanish wines are a great value and they have bottles from virtually every wine-growing region. Our wait-person and the service were not as polished as previously."
Dined on 4/29/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, great for brunch, notable wine list, scenic view, special occasion
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Review 8 for Mercat a La Planxa
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Great food - slow delivery

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/09/2013
Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Excellent food. Service was slow, but you have to expect that at Mercator. It's a good place and excellent for the foodies."
Dined on 5/09/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, special occasion
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Review 9 for Mercat a La Planxa
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Superb

OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/07/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Admittedly the only tapas place I have been to in Chicago so far, but the food was exquisite and the service was excellent. The bacon wrapped dates were the highlight of the courses we had. The noise level was a bit much and at time felt like I was at a pub screaming just to have a conversation. Other than that, the food, service and ambiance were quite nice."
Dined on 5/07/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, neighborhood gem
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Review 10 for Mercat a La Planxa
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Wonderful food and service

OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/06/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Mercat is one of our favorite restaurants in Chicago. Its great for entertaining out of towners or a special occasion. I always order from the Chef's Tasting Menu - and I am never disappointed. We went on a Monday night and it was busy but we were not rushed from our table. The service was excellent and attentive - great team work by the waiter and his support staff."
Dined on 5/06/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, scenic view, special occasion
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Review 11 for Mercat a La Planxa
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/05/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"I love this place. Second time back and it was absolutely wonderful."
Dined on 5/05/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, late-night find, special occasion
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Review 12 for Mercat a La Planxa
Overall rating 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5

Brunch: good food, service lacking

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/05/2013
Food 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Service 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"The brunch is a good concept - series of tapas-sized plates to be shared plus a "buffet" of some side items, soups, Bloody Mary, etc. The food was good, interesting. Service not so much. Plates should be changed between courses, and they were not, so we were up and down grabbing clean plates from adjoining tables. Likewise no plates at the "buffet" stations. Odd. At this price point unacceptable."
Dined on 5/05/2013
Special Features: good for groups
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Review 13 for Mercat a La Planxa
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Enjoyable for drinks and appetizers

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/05/2013
Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"Stopped to chat with a friend and enjoyed their sangria flight, martini, and tasty appetizers. Would definitely return for dinner. Light, airy, comfortable space."
Dined on 5/05/2013
Special Features: scenic view, special occasion
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Review 14 for Mercat a La Planxa
Overall rating 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5

Mediocre for a high price

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/04/2013
Food 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Pros: good service Cons: No wows from the food. We had the upscale food and wine tasting menu. The appetizer type tapas weren't very creative. Presentation was nice, but the overall quality and variety reminded us of Café Baba Reba (which doesn't come with the Mercat price tag); The entrée type tapas were good, but again, no big "wow" tastes that we were expecting from an Iron Chef restaurant. We liked Topo a whole lot more for the complexity, variety, originality, and over the top "wows" we got from the food. The wine flight was paired nicely and we enjoyed the quality of their featured wines. Dessert was not a part of the tasting menu and we had a couple which were good, but not special. They do NOT take Jose Garces gift certificates."
Dined on 5/04/2013
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Review 15 for Mercat a La Planxa
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Mercat - Always Good

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/04/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"My third meal at Mercat. The food and service are excellent."
Dined on 5/04/2013
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Review 16 for Mercat a La Planxa
Overall rating 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5

just there no biggie!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/03/2013
Food 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Service 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"I was really looking forward in coming to Mercat and I think i should of went some where else.... The only i asked for was for a better table and it just made the experience seem generic. The sangria flight was flat so we just hurried out there. What a shame I really wanted to like this place."
Dined on 5/03/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, great for outdoor dining, special occasion
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Review 17 for Mercat a La Planxa
Overall rating 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5

OpenTable Diner
Dined on 4/12/2013
Food 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Service 
1 / 5
(Poor) 1 / 5
Ambiance 
1 / 5
(Poor) 1 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"The food presentation and flavor were really good. Our waiter was more interested looking after his big table of 6 than our table of 3, he even mentioned that ordering a Paella was not recommended for a small table. The restaurant itself was busy. The fake flowers was a big turn off and the whole place was just tired. We will never comeback."
Dined on 4/12/2013
Special Features: scenic view
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Review 18 for Mercat a La Planxa
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Not for busy times

OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/03/2013
Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Mercat's food is good though expensive and very limited in selection. The main issue is seating/service. We had a reservation, but had to stand for 30 minutes waiting for a table to come available. The wait staff looked overloaded on this friday night too. Loud thumping music."
Dined on 5/03/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, notable wine list
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Review 19 for Mercat a La Planxa
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Every tapas was a hit...

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/03/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Our server was excellent and guided us through the meal because several of us were tapas novices. Every single item served was delicious. We also appreciated the vegan friendly approach. Lots of fun was had by all."
Dined on 5/03/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, special occasion
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Review 20 for Mercat a La Planxa
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Spanish Delights!

OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/02/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Mercat continues to be a real treasure for Chicago, serving authentic Spanish/Catalan dishes that are always a treat. The tasting menu is a real feast with terrific variety, and there is an excellent selection of Spanish wines to complement the food. It can be a bit loud when the restaurant is full, but it is the sound of happy, energetic diners!"
Dined on 5/02/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, notable wine list, neighborhood gem, hot spot, special occasion
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Review 21 for Mercat a La Planxa
Overall rating 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5

Not worth it

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/01/2013
Food 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Service 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Ambiance 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Expect to either leave hungry or broke. Our waiter was a tool, focused more on pushing drinks and a larger order than giving a thoughtful and informed response to our questions.
The drinks were beyond bad: half-empty glasses of iced-up watered down liquor bearing no resemblance to the menu descriptions.The dishes were largely a disappointment, which is about the only thing large at Mercat. We were warned that diners usually order four to six dishes per person, which seems accurate. Most will be served lukewarm, few will be sharable in any satisfying way, and none will be worth ordering a second time. The a la planxa menu is best avoided altogether, despite what the waiters say: you'll get a tiny piece of cooling meat on a huge empty plate.
"
Dined on 5/01/2013
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Review 22 for Mercat a La Planxa
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Tapa-tastic

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 4/30/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
4 / 3
Energetic
"We are not adventurous eaters (no organ meats or game) and we found plenty of delicious choices."
Dined on 4/30/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, hot spot, special occasion
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Review 23 for Mercat a La Planxa
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Food was good, we enjoyed

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Food was good, we enjoyed the tapas menu selections. The noise level was very high, you're packed in like sardines & the service was lacking."
Dined on 04/27/2013
 2009
Special Features: fit for foodies
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Review 24 for Mercat a La Planxa
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

We had an awesome server who

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"We had an awesome server who took the time to explain the menue and suggest things we might like. She made our evening."
Dined on 04/25/2013
 2007
Special Features: fit for foodies, romantic, special occasion, scenic view
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Review 25 for Mercat a La Planxa
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

We had a handicapped person

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"We had a handicapped person in our party. The hostess could not have been more understanding and accommodating. Very good dining experience and a happy place!"
Dined on 04/27/2013
 2007
Special Features: fit for foodies, romantic, hot spot
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Review 26 for Mercat a La Planxa
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Our group did the Chef's Tasting

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Our group did the Chef's Tasting Menu and it was incredible and they had no problem making a pescetarian only plate for me. We were a bit worried that it wouldn't be enough food and that was far from the truth. In fact, we wish our table was bigger to hold all the plates."
Dined on 04/27/2013
 2003
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, neighborhood gem, special occasion
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Review 27 for Mercat a La Planxa
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Flavor, flavor and more flavor!

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Either my group had an uncanny ability to make great selections from the vast menu or it's really difficult to find any dishes that aren't delicious. I think it is the later. We had several of the A La Planxa fish and seafood selections - the lobster, scallops, striped bass - all amazing. Also had the Spinach from the vegetables menu, with currants, pine nuts and apples, which was the best spinach dish I've ever had. The lamb chops were so succulent and flavorful that the accompanying sauces were almost superfluous but I tasted them anyway and they were very nice. The desserts were just the right size for satisfying the sweet tooth at the end of the meal. Nice staff, beautiful room and I just cannot say enough great things about the food."
Dined on 04/26/2013
 2010
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, special occasion, hot spot
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Review 28 for Mercat a La Planxa
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

fun atmosphere, good food,

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"fun atmosphere, good food, and close to auditorium theater."
Dined on 04/26/2013
 2005
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Review 29 for Mercat a La Planxa
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

A bit on the pricey side,

Food 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"A bit on the pricey side, but great wine selection and nice ambiance."
Dined on 04/26/2013
 2013
Special Features: notable wine list
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Review 30 for Mercat a La Planxa
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Food was excellent, all dishes

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Food was excellent, all dishes were mouthwatering. The only issue we had was that while the first few dishes came out in great time, the remaining dishes were delayed. Other than that, all was well."
Dined on 04/24/2013
 2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, romantic, scenic view
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Review 31 for Mercat a La Planxa
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

good food, bad seating.

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"We have been to Mercat several times now. Food is generally good but not reliable from visit to visit. Some dishes vary drastically from time to time.
This restaurant is right next to several huge downtown hotels, which are close to the convention center.
Seating is also an issue. Even with a reservation, we seem to end up in awful spots -- tables that might seat 2 people, where 4 are stuck. Of course, the best seats are next to window. It seemed to us that the front-staff are "fixing" the seating arrangements. Next time, we are going to require a better seat or bail.
Service is slow, whether the place is empty or busy.
This is a moderately expensive restaurant -- reasonable. Expensive street parking is easy to get."
Dined on 04/24/2013
 2010
Special Features: fit for foodies, special occasion
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Review 32 for Mercat a La Planxa
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Outstanding. Traditional Spanish

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Outstanding. Traditional Spanish tapas taken to a whole different level. Amazing flavors."
Dined on 04/24/2013
 2006
Special Features: fit for foodies, hot spot
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Review 33 for Mercat a La Planxa
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Had a nice business lunch

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Had a nice business lunch with a party of five, so can't comment on the dinner menu, bar scene and wine list, which were said to be considerably more extensive. Creative lunch menu enabled a vegetarian in our party to have a good meal, too. I had scallops, which I thought were a tad mushy, but good flavor. All other entres were said to be very good. Everyone enjoyed their meal."
Dined on 04/22/2013
 2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, great for lunch
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Review 34 for Mercat a La Planxa
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Highly recommend, $$$ but

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Highly recommend, $$$ but worth the price. Went with small group before the theatre. Many choices including vegetarian. enjoyed the décor and the service was excellent. If you enjoy Spanish Tapas, this is the place. Good food, good service what more do you want for a nice evening."
Dined on 04/21/2013
 2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, special occasion, scenic view
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Review 35 for Mercat a La Planxa
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

An excellent experience.

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"An excellent experience. We enjoyed 'La Mesa de jose' (Chef’s Tasting Menu). Even though we had a limited diet (no pork, no shellfish), we enjoyed a delicious meal. (Two non-kosher items were brought to our table, one with bacon, the other with octopus, but were quickly replaced, with apologies.) I highly recommend for special occasions."
Dined on 04/19/2013
 2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, romantic, special occasion
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Review 36 for Mercat a La Planxa
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

We'll Go back...many times

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"What a refreshing entry Mercat a La Planxa is to compete with some of the older restaurants in this genre. Their menu is creative and extensive but still reflects a lot of "traditional tapas" dishes. The atmosphere is great and we loved the multilevel approach. The service was also great...they really took care of us."
Dined on 04/20/2013
 2007
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, good for groups, late-night find, neighborhood gem, romantic, special occasion, great for lunch, hot spot
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Review 37 for Mercat a La Planxa
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

We had a certificate for a

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"We had a certificate for a chef's tasting with wine and everything was excellent. Omar, our server knew the food, explained everything, was friendly and really does an outstanding job. He made our experience, truly an experience. The food just kept coming. I think the bacon wrapped dates were our favorite. Would go back"
Dined on 04/14/2013
 2007
Special Features: fit for foodies
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Review 38 for Mercat a La Planxa
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Sunday brunch tasting menu

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Sunday brunch tasting menu was great. Loved the Bloody Mary bar too- bartender very helpful in describing various ingredients. Would go back."
Dined on 04/14/2013
 2007
Special Features: great for brunch
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Review 39 for Mercat a La Planxa
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

We did the Luxury dining experience

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"We did the Luxury dining experience and it was worth the $90 a plate. Not only were we stuffed but it was the most amazing combinations my palate had ever experienced. Absolutely stunning!"
Dined on 04/15/2013
 2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, romantic, special occasion, scenic view
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Review 40 for Mercat a La Planxa
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

This place never misses!

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"This place never misses! We love it!"
Dined on 03/16/2013
 2010
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, fit for foodies, good for groups, late-night find, notable wine list, romantic, special occasion, hot spot
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Review 41 for Mercat a La Planxa
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Can't wait to return

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"This is the first time in years that I have walked into a new (to me) restaurant and was immediately in awe. What a gorgeous interior, eclectic menu, exceptional food. A+ experience. I can't wait to come back."
Dined on 04/16/2013
 2004
Special Features: fit for foodies, great for lunch
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Review 42 for Mercat a La Planxa
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

This is a great restaurant.

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"This is a great restaurant. We enjoy it whether or not we are just a couple or part of a larger group. The wine list is also amazing, as are the cocktails. Normally we try the matched wine and chef picked food, but this time we ordered separately. Both ways are highly rewarding! Enjoy!"
Dined on 04/12/2013
 2006
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, fit for foodies, good for groups, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, special occasion
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Review 43 for Mercat a La Planxa
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Four of us tried the Chef's

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Four of us tried the Chef's tasting ($85) and added wine for $40 more -- all was really tasty and some were unusual but fun and very good."
Dined on 04/14/2013
 2008
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, hot spot
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Review 44 for Mercat a La Planxa
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

This was a return visit and

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"This was a return visit and yet again, a good time. Lots of good food to share. All enjoyed."
Dined on 04/14/2013
 2005
Special Features: fit for foodies, hot spot
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Review 45 for Mercat a La Planxa
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Good food, good drinks, on

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Good food, good drinks, on the park. It wasn't transcendent. But it was more than good and i'd go back!"
Dined on 04/12/2013
 2012
Special Features: good for groups, special occasion, scenic view, hot spot
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Review 46 for Mercat a La Planxa
Overall rating 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5

Great spot if you are going

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Great spot if you are going to the Auditorium Theater for a performance. However, leave plenty of time. Waiter was not mindful of our time schedule even though we told him twice. They also tell you to order more than you need! If you are doing the small plates, 2-3 per person is PLENTY. You don't need 4-5.
Food was excellent Great Sangria too!
Make sure you make a reservation as it's crowded and you will wait there!
"
Dined on 04/13/2013
 2000
Special Features: neighborhood gem
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Review 47 for Mercat a La Planxa
Overall rating 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5

The food was fine, if nothing

Food 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"The food was fine, if nothing very special. The food itself was awkwardly spaced which was odd since the restaurant was half empty. The value was poor; you can find better tapas for half the price."
Dined on 04/13/2013
 2004
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Review 48 for Mercat a La Planxa
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

For those who have a hard

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"For those who have a hard time choosing, this is perfect. Tapas are a good size and it is in a great building right on historic south Michigan. My favorite restaurant in the city"
Dined on 04/13/2013
 2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, romantic, special occasion, scenic view, hot spot
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Review 49 for Mercat a La Planxa
Overall rating 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5

Selection and food were excellent.

Food 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Service 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"Selection and food were excellent. Sangria, though excellent, served in 'old-fashioned' style cocktail glass over full ice. Portion was much too small for $9 price."
Dined on 04/09/2013
 2006
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Review 50 for Mercat a La Planxa
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

I never have a bad experience

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"I never have a bad experience or a bad meal at Mercat! I love it -- my first choice for pre-symphony dining, too."
Dined on 04/06/2013
 2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, great for lunch, hot spot
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