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Merchant Reviews List

Merchant

Reservation policy: We accept reservations Sunday-Thursday at all hours of the day. We save tables for walk-in parties on Friday and Saturday night. For a party of 6 or more, please call us at 608-259-9799.

We are now taking reservations for New Year's Eve. Space is limited, please call the restaurant to reserve a table at 608-259-9799.

As Merchants, we consider ourselves stewards of great ingredients. We source the freshest and finest local and international products that we can get our hands on, and feature and sell these ingredients in our dining room in order to achieve complete transparency of our operations.

It is our goal to bring you enjoyment through method-driven food, cocktails using only the best liquors and the freshest ingredients, and a place for you to blow off the rigors of a stressful day.
See more Merchant details
120 Current Reviews
Summary of Diner Ratings & Reviews
Overall 
4.2 / 5
(Outstanding) 4.2 / 5
(120 Reviews)
Open Ratings Snapshot
Rating Breakdown 120 reviews
5 stars
(49)
4 stars
(53)
3 stars
(16)
2 stars
(1)
1 star
(1)
Food 
4.3 / 5
(Outstanding) 4.3 / 5
Service 
4.2 / 5
(Outstanding) 4.2 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Outstanding) 4 / 5
Noise Level
2.7 / 3
Energetic
Filter Reviews By:
Diners classify this restaurant as:
  • fit for foodies(86)
  • vibrant bar scene(66)
  • hot spot(54)
  • neighborhood gem(37)
  • good for groups(31)
  • special occasion(30)
Merchant Reviews List
Review 1 for Merchant
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/13/2013
Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Best and most lively place in Madison!"
Dined on 5/13/2013
Special Features: good for groups, vibrant bar scene, late-night find
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Review 2 for Merchant
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/12/2013
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
"Fun food. Great staff. Excellent cocktails."
Dined on 5/12/2013
Special Features: good for groups, vibrant bar scene, great for brunch
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Review 3 for Merchant
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Madison Craft Brew Week

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/05/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Stopped by for the special Three Floyds dinner and beer flight. Sat outside on the patio, so the noise was minimal. The few times inside were loud though. The beer flight and explanations were well priced and presented nicely. The food, as always, was spectacular."
Dined on 5/05/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, great for outdoor dining, great for brunch, neighborhood gem, hot spot, special occasion
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Review 4 for Merchant
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Eclectic Excellence!

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"I tried the Merchant Burger and a cup of the pureed gapazcho soup and enjoyed everything immensely. The Merchant Burger has not only a ground beef patty, but also is topped with a grilled brisket and an egg for good measure. Coupled with the zesty soup, it was a real taste extravaganza! The setting is modern and the service congenial. Highly recommended for your Madison power lunch, or just for good, locally-sourced food."
Dined on 5/08/2013
Special Features: great for lunch
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Review 5 for Merchant
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Amazing!

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
"Great service. It didn't take long at all to get our food. The food and drinks were outstanding. I would definitely recommend Merchant to my friends and family."
Dined on 5/04/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, vibrant bar scene, late-night find, neighborhood gem, hot spot, special occasion
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Review 6 for Merchant
Overall rating 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5

Overall pretty good. The Bison

Food 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Service 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Overall pretty good. The Bison was very tough and we would not order that again. The crab rigatoni was very good, but very heavy. The mozzarella panini was excellent. Desserts were huge and the highlight of the dinner. Our table was terrible. It was so close to the bar that the people standing at the bar were literally leaning on our table."
Dined on 04/26/2013
 2012
Special Features: hot spot
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Review 7 for Merchant
Overall rating 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5

Best place in town for craft

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Best place in town for craft cocktails. Food was very good. Can get very noisy if the bar is very active during dinner. Not the place for a quiet conversation. If you don't mind the "energetic" bar scene then you will be fine."
Dined on 04/25/2013
 2006
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, fit for foodies, good for groups, hot spot
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Review 8 for Merchant
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Merchant hosted our party

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
"Merchant hosted our party of 9. The food was really good and the drinks were better. Excellent atmosphere, though a bit loud at times. There was great energy in the room overall and we had a great time."
Dined on 04/23/2013
 2008
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, fit for foodies, good for groups, neighborhood gem, hot spot
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Review 9 for Merchant
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Amazing service, hip location

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Amazing service, hip location and decor, food was amazing! Bar scene is apparently fabulous, great great great all around."
Dined on 04/20/2013
 2013
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, fit for foodies, good for groups, great for brunch, kid-friendly, late-night find, notable wine list, romantic, special occasion, great for lunch, hot spot
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Review 10 for Merchant
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Saturday brunch

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Stopped by after the Farmers Market, good and busy, a few empty seats so it was still okay to walk in. A lot of "bustle" always makes this place fairly noisy. Wait staff were excellent today. Had the burrito and it was excellent, the verde was a nice touch."
Dined on 04/20/2013
 2011
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, fit for foodies, great for brunch, late-night find, neighborhood gem, special occasion, great for lunch, hot spot
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Review 11 for Merchant
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

I like everything about Merchant

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"I like everything about Merchant except the sound level which is quite loud to the extent it is difficult to hear conversation."
Dined on 04/19/2013
 2006
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Review 12 for Merchant
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Great Drinks! Enjoyed the

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Great Drinks! Enjoyed the cheese plate an d bone marrow also."
Dined on 04/18/2013
 2011
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, good for groups, hot spot
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Review 13 for Merchant
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

I can't say enough about Merchant.

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"I can't say enough about Merchant. We have gone there for special occasions for over 2 years now. The staff and owners remember us every time. It is the be seen place in Madison. Love is outstanding, drinks are creative and well balanced. The dining room is a bit noisy."
Dined on 04/14/2013
 2010
Special Features: fit for foodies, late-night find, notable wine list, romantic, special occasion
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Review 14 for Merchant
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

We had the best waitress ever.

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"We had the best waitress ever. She made our first visit unforgettable. Her food reccomdations were superb . We will definitely tell our friends and family to go there for fine food and dining."
Dined on 04/13/2013
 2013
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, fit for foodies, special occasion, hot spot
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Review 15 for Merchant
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Just like the YouTube video

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Just like the YouTube video showed. It was a fun evening."
Dined on 04/13/2013
 2010
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, hot spot
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Review 16 for Merchant
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Great "local" place

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"This was a great place for my dad's birthday. There were only three of us. We got there at 5 and soon it was bustling. The one complaint, it's too noisy! Really, they might think of getting some big, thick fabric for the corners or dividing up the space in a creative and interesting way because it's so hard to hear and have a conversation without yelling across the table. That's the one drawback I've seen with this very industrial-type atmosphere. Otherwise, super service, delicious food and gorgeous atmosphere. We all commented on the awesome and brief menu. Chefs should be able to create a menu that's not overwhelming, but will still satisfy different tastes and that was what happened at Merchant!
Thanks, Merchant."
Dined on 04/06/2013
 2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, notable wine list, special occasion, hot spot
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Review 17 for Merchant
Overall rating 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5

The food we had on the Tuesday

Food 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Service 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Ambiance 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
"The food we had on the Tuesday night special was great but arrived already cold. It was pretty clear it had been plated before we ordered and had sat somewhere.
Noise level is through the roof. No a place for a conversation."
Dined on 04/02/2013
 2008
Special Features: vibrant bar scene
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Review 18 for Merchant
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

You asked about noise and

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"You asked about noise and I did think it is too noisy in your restaurant to enjoy a conversation with someone you haven't seen for a while. I would suggest carpeting or something to help absorb sound from boucing off all the surfaces."
Dined on 04/02/2013
 2009
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Review 19 for Merchant
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

This was my first time at

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"This was my first time at the Merchant. I heard a lot about their mixed drinks and they did not disappoint! I had their "Perch at the Merch", which was not overly fried as well as fresh and delicious. They also make their own coleslaw which was some of the best I've had. Our waitress was a true gem as well; she was very helpful with the menu and answered all the questions my Dad had (which can be quite a lot!).
The only downside was it was terribly noisy when we were first seated, I think it was because people were hanging around after Happy Hour to watch the March Madness games. But the Merchant staff were apologetic and said that it usually wasn't that noisy at 7pm on a Friday night.
An overall good experience, we will be back.
"
Dined on 03/22/2013
 2013
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Review 20 for Merchant
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Great atmosphere and Good food.

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 think my only complaint is how close we were to the tables next to us. You really could hear EVERYTHING that was being said by the tables on either side of us, but that's mostly because it's a small place. The food was delicious."
Dined on 03/25/2013
 2011
Special Features: special occasion
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Review 21 for Merchant
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

My husband and I went to Merchant

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"My husband and I went to Merchant for our anniversary - the 25th. The staff was wonderful and the restaurant gave us a free glass of champagne and free dessert for the occasion. Everything was great....the drinks and food were superb and the waitstaff was really attentive. We will definitely go back."
Dined on 03/15/2013
 2013
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, fit for foodies, good for groups, late-night find, notable wine list, special occasion, great for lunch, hot spot
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Review 22 for Merchant
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

One of our favorites

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"We love Merchant's commitment to local food. The service is fantastic, the food is delicious and we enjoy the industrial decor. We'll keep coming back."
Dined on 03/10/2013
 2010
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, special occasion
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Review 23 for Merchant
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

We were favorably impressed

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"We were favorably impressed with the food and the service. The atmosphere is noisy, however, as there is nothing to baffle the sounds of the bar which is not physically separated from the dining area."
Dined on 03/09/2013
 2012
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Review 24 for Merchant
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

drink/beer list was impressive. St

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"drink/beer list was impressive.
Staff was on top of it.
Delish food and fair price
"
Dined on 03/08/2013
 2013
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, fit for foodies, hot spot
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Review 25 for Merchant
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Great food, changing menu,

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Great food, changing menu, great cocktails, knowledgeable staff. My wife and I had a 6:30 reservation on a Saturday and as the restaurant and bar were full, it was a bit noisy. I did appreciate that the TV monitors above the bar were off-if you want to watch a sporting event go to a sports bar."
Dined on 03/02/2013
 2010
Special Features: fit for foodies
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Review 26 for Merchant
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Good food with some sophisticated

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
"Good food with some sophisticated twists. More of a bar with a restaurant than a fine restaurant. Make sure you have a reservation."
Dined on 03/01/2013
 2009
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, fit for foodies, late-night find, neighborhood gem, special occasion, hot spot
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Review 27 for Merchant
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Fabulous food, but it was

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Fabulous food, but it was so loud in there that unless I actually shouted, I couldn't be heard across the table. This kills much of the fun of a good dinner for me (talking with companions)."
Dined on 02/28/2013
 2006
Special Features: fit for foodies
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Review 28 for Merchant
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Yum! Went for the special

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Yum! Went for the special Distill America brunch. It was amazing. Too bad they don't serve brunch every Sunday! Food was amazingly good, service was pleasant, but slow, although easy to over look given the excellent food. They are open for brunch on Saturdays during the outdoor farmer's market."
Dined on 02/24/2013
 2011
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, fit for foodies, good for groups, great for brunch, late-night find, great for lunch
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Review 29 for Merchant
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Yum

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Really delicious food. It sounds so simple but I am in love with their buttermilk salad and its perfectly-shaved crunchy veggies. The chocolate custard for dessert is just divine. Becoming one of our favorite places to eat in Madison. Just wish they could do something about the cold draft at certain tables when someone opens the door to let Wisconsin's winter in."
Dined on 02/22/2013
 2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, great for lunch, hot spot
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Review 30 for Merchant
Overall rating 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5

Food is worth the service

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
1 / 5
(Poor) 1 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"The food and drinks were very good and reasonably priced. The service was very slow. We waited at the bar for several minutes before getting service from the bartenders. Then, when we were seated at our reservation time, we waited for several more minutes before seeing our server. Also, a reservation made a week in advance resulted in us getting the worst table in the house - right near the door. It was 5 degrees outside, so every time the door opened, we got a cold blast of winter air. Not a great experience, but will probably give it another chance because of the food and local sourcing. Just not in the winter time."
Dined on 02/16/2013
 2008
Special Features: fit for foodies
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Review 31 for Merchant
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

The drinks were amazing, food

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
"The drinks were amazing, food was great and good service. I wish I could transport Merchant to Chicago and keep their Madison prices! Excellent meats and cheeses! Cool atmosphere too."
Dined on 02/16/2013
 2009
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, fit for foodies, good for groups, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, hot spot
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Review 32 for Merchant
Overall rating 
1 / 5
(Poor) 1 / 5

Will not return

Food 
1 / 5
(Poor) 1 / 5
Service 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Ambiance 
1 / 5
(Poor) 1 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"We were at Merchant on "Date Night". The special was described as a "steak" but it was a very fatty pork belly. It was not good!!! The atmosphere was dark and loud. We will not return."
Dined on 02/19/2013
 2013
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Review 33 for Merchant
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

The food was awesome! We

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 was awesome! We tried several dishes because we couldn't decide on just one thing. I'm still dreaming about the Patatas Bravas that we shared. The Les Freres Rigatoni was amazing! The large order of mussels is huge and well worth the cost. Don't skip on dessert - the Sea Salt and Caramel Gelato is a huge portion - enough for two people to share - and worth Every.Single.Calorie!
The drinks on the other hand were pretty bad. The Wisconsin Old Fashioned was very disappointing, "God Save the Queen" was pretty bad - could only taste the cream. For 2 people the meal was $100, with $50 being for the drinks.
We will be returning for sure, but just for the food."
Dined on 02/15/2013
 2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem
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Review 34 for Merchant
Overall rating 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5

Merchant had a great deal

Food 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Service 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Merchant had a great deal on Tuesday night--"Cheap Date night." 2 entrees a bottle of wine and dessert. It was their entree and wine choice. It was delicious!"
Dined on 02/12/2013
 2012
Special Features: fit for foodies
0points
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Review 35 for Merchant
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Casual atmosphere with a nice

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
"Casual atmosphere with a nice urban feel. Some of the dishes were outstandng; others were just mediocre. All in all, I would return to Merchant when next in Madison."
Dined on 02/12/2013
 2006
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, neighborhood gem, hot spot
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Review 36 for Merchant
Overall rating 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5

We wouldn't tell anyone NOT to go

Food 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Service 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Went on a Monday night for an early-ish dinner; perhaps overall experience isn't typical for the rest of the week. Service was adequate, although our server appeared bored throughout. Wasn't told about dinner specials - heard about them when a different server told tables adjoining ours. The place sells itself as being some kind of ultra-creative mixology-type of place, but most of the offerings seems to be prime examples of overthinking. Good wine selection. Food was fine - I ordered a foie gras burger that was tasty, but had a lot going on. Spouse ordered hangar steak, which was good but somewhat overpowered by strong mustard in side potatoes. First time there; no compelling need to return."
Dined on 02/11/2013
 2005
0points
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Review 37 for Merchant
Overall rating 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5

Great food. Way too loud.

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
1 / 5
(Poor) 1 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Great food. In particular, the buttermilk salad was enjoyed by all. Unfortunately, the incredibly loud noise level in the restaurant made it difficult to enjoy the meal. Even my teenage daughter struggled with it."
Dined on 02/08/2013
 2011
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Review 38 for Merchant
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

A wonderful find full of creative

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"A wonderful find full of creative twists, using all locally or organically grown meats and vegetables. The turnip sweet potato creamy soup of the day was hot and delicious.
Its not a big restaurant, but it seems to be a popular place. Loved it!
"
Dined on 02/02/2013
 2007
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, fit for foodies, late-night find, neighborhood gem, great for lunch, hot spot
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Review 39 for Merchant
Overall rating 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5

not bad

Food 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"We dined at Merchant for lunch during restaurant week. The options were very extensive and impressive. I ordered the cold meatloaf sandwich which i didn't care for but my friend really enjoyed the ham and brie sandwich. Our salads were light and fresh and the cobbler was delicious. Our server was outstanding. The windows let in too much sun but we were promptly relocated without asking. Overall a good experience. We will definitely return."
Dined on 01/22/2013
 2012
Special Features: fit for foodies
0points
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Review 40 for Merchant
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Great Food, Great Atmosphere!

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Loved the Food. We went for Restaurant week. I had the Beet Salad, the Fried Chicken Sandwich and the Bread Pudding for dessert. Loved it all. We had Four people at our table and everyone enjoyed their food too. The Merchant Burger was a hit as was the Cubano."
Dined on 01/24/2013
 2011
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, fit for foodies, good for groups, great for brunch, late-night find, neighborhood gem, special occasion, scenic view, great for lunch, hot spot
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Review 41 for Merchant
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

The pork belly banh mi was

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"The pork belly banh mi was awesone and the squash soup was creamy and flavor full. Definitely will come back to try other items on the menu."
Dined on 01/25/2013
 2012
Special Features: fit for foodies, great for lunch
0points
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Review 42 for Merchant
Overall rating 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5

Our food overall was good.

Food 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Service 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Ambiance 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Our food overall was good. Roasted beet small plate was very good. Mussels were good. Soup of the day was excellent. Charcuterie plate at $14 was skimpy at best served with two pieces of Mortadella and four pieces of salami. Pork chop was either a very tough piece of pork or was overcooked. The signature drinks were very tasty but be prepared to pay about $9-$11 for a small pour on a ton of ice. We enjoy cooking and are not in need of huge Wisconsin portions, but felt it was a bit lacking for the price. Service was great and ambience is fun. TIP: make sure you have a flashlight app on your phone, because it's darkly lit and very hard to read the menu."
Dined on 01/26/2013
 2010
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Review 43 for Merchant
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Seems like a hot spot! Everything

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Seems like a hot spot! Everything was good, the food, the service and the atmosphere."
Dined on 01/24/2013
 2012
Special Features: great for lunch, hot spot
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Review 44 for Merchant
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

A friend and I were there

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"A friend and I were there for restaurant week. We had never been to Merchant before. We loved it. The food was incredible. The tables were perfectly spaces, so we didn't feel like we were crammed in the space. Service was exceptional. I have already made a reservation to go back"
Dined on 01/24/2013
 2013
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, fit for foodies, late-night find, notable wine list
0points
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Review 45 for Merchant
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Great Restaurant Week Spot!

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Had a great restaurant week experience at Merchant - many wonderful options on the menu, good size portions and wonderful service. I highly recommend them for restaurant week!"
Dined on 01/21/2013
 2008
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, fit for foodies, hot spot
+1point
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Ratings-Only Reviews for Merchant
Based on the average of (75) ratings-only reviews
Overall 
4.3 / 5
(Outstanding) 4.3 / 5
5 out of 6 recommend this product
Food 
4.3 / 5
(Outstanding) 4.3 / 5
Service 
4.3 / 5
(Outstanding) 4.3 / 5
Ambiance 
4.3 / 5
(Outstanding) 4.3 / 5
Noise Level
2.7 / 3
Energetic