We noticed that you're using an unsupported browser. The Tripadvisor website may not display properly.We support the following browsers:
Windows: Internet Explorer, Mozilla Firefox, Google Chrome. Mac: Safari.

“Excellent Dinner”

The Merchant Tavern
Reserve a table
2
Wed, 10/16
8:00 PM
Ranked #9 of 420 Restaurants in St. John's
More restaurant details
Restaurant details
Neighborhood: Downtown
Description: Welcome to The Merchant Tavern,The Merchant Tavern pays homage to hard-working people who appreciate fine fare and spirits. Using fresh ingredients from local purveyors and some inspiration, we create dishes that will make you feel sated.
Reviewed August 21, 2019

I definitely recommend booking ahead, as we did, because the place was jammed. It was stylish, well-lighted, "happening," with high ceilings and a good view of the open kitchen and food assembly areas. Our waitress was lovely. Most importantly, the meal was excellent. Everything was fresh, cooked perfectly, and seasoned well. We would gladly go again. It's rather pricey, FYI. You have to park on the street, as it's in the downtown area.

Date of visit: August 2019
    • Value
    • Service
    • Food
Thank Andrew W
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Reviews (637)
Traveler rating
Traveler type
Time of year
Language

89 - 93 of 637 reviews

Reviewed August 19, 2019

This place was hopping. Even though it was packed and happening, we still got great service. I was seated facing the kitchen and it was easy to see why. The chef, expedited and orchestrated all the cook's stations and when the dishes for a table were ready, the team just got on them and brought them out pronto.
They have a fantastic bar, lots of local beers and very respectable wine list.
I'd highly recommend this restaurant.
Save room for the vinegar pie!

Date of visit: August 2019
Thank savouritall_karen
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Reviewed August 19, 2019

The pan-fried cod was perfect. Tender as butter. The fish soup was tomato-based and ok but it made me realize I prefer the cream-based chowder soups instead. For fun I had the vinegar pie and it was quite delicious. I would recommend this restaurant although be sure to check the hours as they are a bit unusual.

Date of visit: August 2019
Thank LJWCalgary
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Reviewed August 17, 2019

The restaurant was super busy for good reason - a nice and lively atmosphere and a good variety on the menu. I eat plant based and although the server said the meal I ordered was a vegan option (pasta), I have my doubts as the sauce was a pesto which would likely have cheese/parmesan and totally tasted like it did! I asked the server again after a couple bites and he assured me it was vegan - questionable still, but what can you do. It tasted pretty good anyway (luckily not an allergy on my end, but is a medical issue for my husband who also ordered the meal, so hopefully he was knowledgeable).

Our friends ordered the mussels - not sure why it only comes with one little slice of bread, should really come with a bread basket!

Food aside, we had a great time!

Date of visit: August 2019
2  Thank melibrione
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Reviewed August 16, 2019 via mobile

An excellent experience overall
All food especially the cod was well prepared and fresh
Ambiance was happening and building suitable and upscale
Pricing relatively high for wine and beer but quality of food worth it

Date of visit: August 2019
2  Thank Mackenzie2432
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

Travelers who viewed The Merchant Tavern also viewed

St. John's, Newfoundland
St. John's, Newfoundland
 

Been to The Merchant Tavern? Share your experiences!

Write a Review Add Photos & Videos

Owners: What's your side of the story?

Own or manage this property? Claim your listing for free to respond to reviews, update your profile and much more.

Claim Your Listing
© 2024 Tripadvisor LLC All rights reserved.

This is the version of our website addressed to speakers of English in the United States. If you are a resident of another country or region, please select the appropriate version of Tripadvisor for your country or region in the drop-down menu.