great, friendly service, food and drink. Food is always very good. It is a very warm and cozy environment . Have been there many times and will go back many more read more

A perfect neighborhood spot. Possibly the best burger in Chelsea. Extremely friendly staff. Love popping in for a casual beer after work or to watch a game. read more

Excellent blackened tuna, as well as the burrata with tomato-peach salsa. Great service, and nice atmosphere.

Stopped in today with 2 of my colleagues in what seemed to be an empty restaurant for a midday soda and appetizers. The waiter was concerningly persistent on a "one drink minimum" for all guests (he did not once consider that we are all sober guests). When told we were not concerned about ordering alcohol, and before we could order our appetizers, we were rudely asked to leave the restaurant. The waiter yanked the menus away, us all still undecided on what we were having to eat. It's important to note we were only in the restaurant for maybe 5 minutes by the time we sat down and were asked to leave. I will absolutely be following up with a phone call and/or email communications to ensure management receives feedback on how to treat guests with more grace and how enforcing company "standards" DOES NOT mean forcing alcohol onto customers. read more

Great brunch spot! Outdoor seating with heaters and seating is covered. Service was friendly and fast. I don't believe they take reservations but we didn't have trouble getting a table. read more

Merchants NY - Brunch! Outdoor seating Jan 2021 - New American Near Me - New York, New York

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Very good food, great servers, and in the winter time their fireplace just makes it extra special!

Waiter (guy with no hair) answered our questions rudely. Basically was extremely insistent on having us sit down instead of order at the bar and when we just needed a second to think, he said we can take our service elsewhere. I would also like to mention the bar was pretty empty! read more

Foumd this bar by chance as everything is close in Christmas. Nice and cozy bar with great draft and reat customer service too. read more

Merchants NY - Stella Artois draft - New American Near Me - New York, New York

Food was terrific. Price is right no expense. Nice looking interior. Staff help my friend into a cab. I'm a senior citizen using a walker. Don't live the far from The restaurant so someone from the restaurant walked me to my door. read more

Mango margarita is delicious and very strong. You definitely get value for the money you're paying. We also ordered the sliders and fish and chips, which tasted like standard bar food. It wasn't incredible but it wasn't bad. The ambiance was very nice and it was at a volume level where you could still hear the person sitting next to you. I definitely recommend this place for the drinks read more

I would love to leave a review about the food or drinks here, but I can't because my friends and I were turned away at the door. There were only a few people at the bar and the restaurant was empty in general. But we were told they were "full and could not seat us". We were also told that we couldn't get a drink at the bar. I have to assume that this was because we were dressed up for Pride and they didn't want us in their space. Seeing other reviews noting racist staff, homophobic seems to be another specialty they can add to their menu. read more

Nice neighborhood spot. Stopped by Friday night with my girlfriend as we were looking for a spot to watch an nba playoff game after dinner. The restaurant bar was small / cozy and the staff was great. I had a slice of carrot cake had a beer and watched the Celtics lose, nice evening. read more

Merchants NY - Carrot cake - New American Near Me - New York, New York

First let me state the food and service was amazing. Our problem was the owner or manager at the bar. My husband and I went in at 7 pm on 2/20 and were the only two people sitting at the restaurant there was one guy and two girls and the "owner" at the bar. They made racist jokes about black bean burgers saying the white beans matter too and then made homophobic jokes about little Richard getting blanked by his partner. At no point did this man come over to talk to the only two people in the restaurant but he continued to stare at my husband and I the entire time and then he and his friend stared at us on the way out. If you are not ok with two men sitting at a table together don't open a restaurant in the heart of Chelsea. read more

Solid choice for brunch. Nice service, maybe could be a little more attentive. Food was fine. My nachos were okay, but the chips were a little stale tasting. French toast was oddly dark. Drinks were tasty (pumpkin pie martini and snickertini) and I'm not usually one for sweet mixed drinks. Wasn't too crowded on a cold Saturday and sitting upstairs is very cozy. Definitely a place you won't regret trying. read more

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We were brought to Merchants by a friend who told us that they had the best spicy chicken sandwich in the City. This turned out not to be hyperbole:other sandwich was crispy, juicy and very flavorful - and the pineapple cole slaw was an amazing accompaniment. What we were NOT warned about was the scrumptious avocado fries, which were addictive in so many wonderful ways. (We ended up getting a second order after devouring the first, they were so good.) Combine that with excellent drinks and really friendly and attentive service and this was really a wonderful night out. read more

Excellent and friendly service, Very good food. Generous portions Chicken quesadillas highly recommended read more

We had an early supper with friends who came into the City before flying out of the country. We each had something different and felt what we got was excellent. For me, the best bean burger (no bun) I have had away from home! Great service and we love the outdoorsy atmosphere. read more

My favorite place for dinner in New York! At merchants your greeted by kind staff, an intimate environment, delicious food, and well prepared drinks. My first time at merchants was in 2020 and I still visit them regularly. Merchants never fails to make you feel like family and ensure that you have a great time. My go to: Cuban Panini, Guacamole with chips and a Mezcal Margarita (bonus: ask the bartender for his specialities) read more

Not quite what I'd expected. While looking for a place to eat in Chelsea before going to a show, we needed to find something close. Many places in the area but we saw that Merchants had a nice patio and the bar area was open at 6:30 p.m. on a Thursday evening. It was still happy hour so my wife and I had some drinks and ordered some bar food. We started getting worried when after 30 minutes, we still didn't see our food and knew we needed to get to our show. After asking the bar maid, she mentioned that they would bring the vegetable quesadillas first since the Buffalo wings weren't ready yet. Guess what? The wings were ready 15 minutes ago. Not sure what they were thinking. My wings were so dry and overcooked, I would have sent them back if I had extra time. They could market this as Buffalo wing jerky. Seriously only 4 of the 10 wings for $10.95 were almost uneatable. The others were pretty good. My wife loved her quesadilla. The three stars are for the quesadilla only. The wings and service were probably worth 2, but the quesadilla was worth 4. read more

Merchants NY - Vegetable Quesadillas - New American Near Me - New York, New York

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It was -4 Celsius outside when we popped into this unassuming bar/restaurant! After yoga class close by, my friend suggested this place to eat and drink and what an excellent choice! We arrived close to 9pm on a weeknight and were immediately led downstairs. The downstairs area is extremely cozy with comfortable lounge chairs, carpeting and a real fireplace! A party was just leaving, and my friend and I scored a two-top table right in front of the fireplace! My friend commented, "it feels like we are in a log cabin." And I couldn't agree more with her. Such a nice little hideout in bustling NYC. The fireplace (and wine) warmed us up immediately! The food and drinks menu here are extensive. You can get a very decent bottle of wine (average $30/bottle) that won't cost you an arm and a leg! And if you order an entree, you can get a bottle of Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon for $25, you really can't beat that! We opted for a bottle of Rioja, Onice 2012, from Spain. Full bodied, dry and perfect on a cold cold night! Food menu had everything from appetizers, to salads, to pasta, etc. We ended up sharing a plate of nachos (minus the beef chili) and it was a generous portion. The nachos were solid, nothing fancy, but it got the job done for 2 hungry people after exercise. We ended up switching to beers after we polished off the bottle of wine and for 2 people sharing a bottle of wine, 3 beers and a generous portion of nachos, the bill was $66! Such a bargain, and with a cozy fire place to warm your heart and mind! We ended up staying for about 4 hours, and didn't want to leave! Thanks for a great night! I'll be sure to come back next time for happy hour and after yoga class! read more

It's easy to mistake Merchants NY Cafe for Merchants Bar (http://www.merchantsny.com/) - Similar names & sleek exteriors. Once inside the cafe, however, you'll find a much more casual environment. An open kitchen also means that you are enveloped by the smell of tasty foods. Appetizer: Caesar salad -- Lettuce was very chilled & more than adequately dressed. Main course: BBQ chicken sandwich - Bread was lightly toasted & limp. Filet of meat was thin. Comes with Cajun fries. Side: Fried polenta - Tasty. Would have preferred a tad less garnish & oil. Minus 1 star for chemical spray cleaning the table next to mine while I was eating. Hidden on a street less traveled (Don't ask why I was there), I wouldn't plan a trip to dine at this establishment, but if you're in the neighborhood & need food late at night - Kitchen closes at 10PM during the week - It's not a terrible option. Think of it as a high end (& accordingly higher priced) cafeteria. "In fact, the cafe management is even challenging residents in the building who want the ultimate laid-back experience to come in and dine in their pajamas. The first person to do so will receive dessert, on the house." http://www.lowermanhattan.info/news/business_spotlight_merchants_ny_47350.aspx Specialty martinis, specialty cocktails & dessert drinks under $10 all the time. All food under $20. Dine-in, take-out or delivery to the entire Financial District south of Chambers St. Seven days, noon to 10 pm. Seamlessweb.com friendly. Photos added. read more

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This has been a great spot for years. When I doubt go to Merchants. I also go to the downstairs or sit outside. I've never had to wait and can be seated right away. The lounge is very cozy and intimate. There are couches, a fireplace and dim lighting. I usually come for drinks, lite bits and dessert. The drinks and food are really good. I always have to blow out my night with the brownie a la mode. Then I satisfied. I'll be coming here for many more years to come. read more

Merchants NY - Brownie a la mode - New American Near Me - New York, New York

I would give this a 3.5 if I could - 4 is a bit too high only because of the ambience. Food is good! I stopped in here on a very rainy day. My mom, sister and I were going to go to Cafeteria across the street, but it had a long wait. This was a great second option! The food was better than expected! It definitely has a bar vibe/atmosphere though. We sat in the back elevated area. This was a good spot to stop in since we were hungry and it was raining. It doesn't have the greatest decor or atmosphere though if you are looking for a trendier spot. The food is good though, and sometimes that is all you need :) FOOD: -Crostinis with cheese, salami, basil, and parm: Great app - and had 8 pieces, which is great to see as opposed to places that give you 2-4 to split. -Chopped Salad with chicken, tomatoes, onion: Very good as well! Great to share as a side dish or app, or just have on your own for lunch -Pressed Sandwich with chicken, tomato, and lettuce - this was really good as well! Overall, the food was spot on. I only took off stars just for the ambiance and presentation since that really does set the mood for me! read more

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Bar / Lounge Fine enough for popping in and having a few cocktails. Nice bar upstairs, couches and cocktail tables downstairs- plus a fireplace. The place was dimly lit so it would definitely be cozy on a cold night. We only had drinks so that is all I can tell you about- and there is not a whole lot to report. The waitress was there when needed and prices were average. I'd go back. read more

I'm still not totally comfortable going into a restaurant yet. I was really happy to see Merchants had plexiglass between their outdoor tables, which are in a walled courtyard. We started with guac & their fresh chips, both of which were delicious. I had a cheeseburger with shoestring fries that hit the spot. The best was the carrot cake. It has cream cheese frosting & was just delicious. The staff was also really attentive. I had a great meal & will definitely be back! read more

The food was delicious the staff very helpful and friendly. Overall a great place and will be back again. Outdoor heaters lovely for a cold evening! read more

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I really enjoyed this little corner jazz cafe. We came here for Mother's day, and had their eggs benedict, french toast, and sour cream and mushroom omelet. The rich Dulce de leche french toast was covered with fruits. The eggs benedict was perfectly made and the eggs yolks were done just right. They had a live jazz band in the corner with a bass cello, guitar and drums. The jazz was just relaxing, and though we were sitting very close, not too loud. They get a star taken away because of the service There were not too many tables that day. It still took forever to get drinks, food, or anything. The servers spent a LOT of time in the kitchen and when they were in the dining area, they were flirting with the patrons and each other. My friends and I have all been waitresses so we're actually really sympathetic to servers, but - sorry. Great food. Bad service. read more

Merchants NY - French Toast. - New American Near Me - New York, New York

The service was amazing and so was the food. We had the carne asada tacos, chips with salsa and guacamole, and the cheeseburger. I think it may be the best cheeseburger I've ever had. I could not recommend this place more. So nice and the food was so good. Definitely will be returning soon. read more

Merchants NY - a man sitting at a table with a plate of food - New American Near Me - New York, New York

I'm always excited to see mezzanines. When I see a small bar employ a mezz in their design, a small version of myself rejoices in my head. Does kind of a jig. Why? Cause there's little better for the people watcher than being able to sit in the mezz and watch watch watch. This spot is cozy on the main floor, cozy on the mezz, and cozy still in the underbelly. Sarah and I were having the last few hours in the city and decided to stop through for some drinks. It was winter so we were unable to enjoy the outdoor wooden patio (looks charming!), and rushed in straight to the bar. Two Jamo shots appeared in very large shot glasses and we were pleased. Cashed out and then ordered two more! Bartender was pleasant, decor said we should get out before the suits came, and we were off! Before we took off however, I did poke around downstairs and thought how much fun it would be to have a private party down there... in the bowels of a quaint and cozy Chelsea bar. Can't wait to be back! read more

Merchants NY - Merchants! - New American Near Me - New York, New York

My girlfriend and I went for a quick dinner on a Saturday evening. They had a great happy hour drinks selection and a pretty good food menu. We ordered the chips and guacamole for appetizers and I got the chicken piccata and she got the penne. The service was real smooth and fast. Our waitress was attentive and kind. The chicken piccata was a bit salty but I like salt so I enjoyed it. It was filling and delicious. The penne was also great. We came in at 5:30 and left within an hour. The atmosphere was also nice. They have a separate seating area upstairs with comfortable chairs and booths. It was intimate and cozy. Will visit again!!! And the mango frozen margarita was amazing! read more

Merchants NY - Penne - New American Near Me - New York, New York

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Friendly staff, great lighting, and good happy hour menu. However, the website showed various seating options with couches in a lounge setting that did not exist when I arrived. Nonetheless, it's a nice local spot and I'll return. read more

Came here because the line was too long for Cafeteria...and some dork at the bar pissed us off......and my friend had great things to say about previous visits to Merchants...so now that we got that out the way.......here we go...... Around 10 pm on a Sunday night... main floor was quiet...we headed downstairs...love the couches..dimly lit...soft ambiance..it so screams romantic date....or bring the person you're cheating on your current spouse with kinda place...lol...but I dig it.... only 2-3 tables were occupied.... including the couple on the couch.... in the corner...next to us......doing things I didn't want to see before a meal.... 2 drinks....came quite quickly...lychee martini? can't remember..but it was good...and it was strong..... Shrimp Quesadillia & Veggie Wontons were tasty...small & just right My Lobster Ravioli - was dreamy...I sopped up every bit of that cream sauce with all the bread given....and then some! (I had help...and yes.... we were hungry! it was a long day) Poached Salmon - as my friend said - was very delicious....and was truly enjoyed.... No room for anything else... we lounged for well over 1.5 hrs... Waitress came down often....and our water glasses were always refilled. I'll be back again.... hopefully with a dude who's not cheating on his chic with me..... ;) PS - I don't like that they don't serve french fries!!!! who wants a salad or tortilla chips with their sandwich??? read more

Like many bar/restaurant places on the outskirts of midtown, it becomes completely yuppified after-work hours. Weekends draw in a tad more tolerable crowd. Dimly-lit and with constant, way-too loud, pulsating techno as background music, the place isn't all the impressive. Although, their basement has a fireplace and all sorts of cushy lounge chairs and sofas for getting all snuggly with a loved one (or random stranger, whatever tickles your fancy). The food is pretty forgettable as well. Standard yuppie bar/restaurant type fare, if you catch my drift. And like, they only offer hamburgers cooked well-done. Who the eff wants to eat a well-done hamburger? Ever? Bleh. This place does get three stars from me because this is one of the best places in the whole city to get mixed drinks. Always good and very strong, Not the usual water-down crap you'll find in most bars (is it just a NYC thing?). Especially love their Grey Goose martinis. So cold, so strong and they give you three freaking olives. :) Wow, I'm getting tipsy just thinking about it. . . read more

Merchants is nothing special. We came here for lunch after an afternoon of shopping along 6th Ave. I have to be honest - nothing bad about this place, but there was also no positive takeaways, nothing that "WOW"-ed me. Service was very informal (almost a little too quick). I got the BLT salad which was pretty fresh, so can't complain about that. But other than that - not a whole lot going on over here. If it's nice out, I recommend sitting on the mini deck they have out front along 7th Ave. read more

This place sucks. If I could give it zero stars, I would. And I generally love Merchants! The UES one is terrific, with great food and one of the last smoking rooms in the city. And the UWS one, which is now closed, was my regular drinks spot back in the day. But this one? The worst. We walked in on President's Day and asked if they were serving brunch. Assured that they were, we took a seat. When we tried to order, though, no brunch was to be had, only some small breakfast menu. Long story short, the food sucked, the service sucked and the place thinks that having no lights on will make up for its shortcomings. It won't. It didn't. Avoid. read more

This place is like a best-kept secret. It's a nice, cozy low-key place. I've thrown a couple of get togethers in the lounge downstairs. Drinks are delicious and not too pricey and the food is surprisingly good! I highly recommend the jerk wings and lobster ravioli. I imagine it would be a great romantic spot to bring a date. read more

Merchants NY - New American Near Me - New York, New York

A good place all around. Nice staff and usually good service. The sidewalk cafe is great in summer. Try the chicken Caesar for a meal and several tasty cocktails for dessert. Great date spot, especially in winter retreat to the cozy dark basement living room lounge. read more

2 Star for: A view of the incredibly dirty kitchen on the way to the bathroom. The grimy lower floor is only about 6'2" tall and is in drastic need of a good cleaning and remodeling. This would be completely acceptable in a dive bar, but not one that is tailoring towards a chicer crowd. The good news is the kitchen is open for business until 2am, which is a huge plus if you get off work around midnight from another restaurant like myself. Though $7 for a Yuengling is pretty steep. read more

Unmemorable spot. Had I not been surfing through my bookmarks, and noticed that I checked in here a few months ago, I wouldn't have remembered I ventured here one Tuesday evening. I pulled up to the bar and had a few lycheetini's here during their happy hour ($9 per cocktail). Each glass came with a plump lychee, but I still believe that the prices could have been lowered to meet standard happy hour prices. Bartender wasn't particularly chatty, which was OK because I was trying to watch a game on the television. Unfortunately all the television sets were muted. Fantastic music though. Any playlist that has Monica's "One of Them Days (Don't Take It Personal)" is automatically awesome. read more

This is a good low key place to take someone when you're not feeling particularly "high maintenance," but you want something better than takeout tonight. The food is def above average. I wish I came here more. Not worth going out of your way to get here though; only worth it if you live in the neighborhood or are already in Chelsea. read more