What should I order at The Merchant Tavern?
The Merchant Tavern
NL Cod
Mentioned multiple times as perfectly cooked with a thin, crispy top crust and moist interior; praised for its flavor and unique accompanying sauces such as caper and lemon-butter sauce. Called the best cod in St. John's by several reviewers.
Tasting Menu (5-course chef's menu)
Highly recommended for offering an exceptional culinary experience with diverse, well-executed dishes including seafood and meat courses paired with wine. Multiple reviewers noted the tasting menu as a highlight and a must-try.
Scallop Crudo
Frequently highlighted as a standout appetizer with fresh, umami-rich flavors, often paired with other seafood like ceviche and oysters.
Lobster Spaghettini with Lobster Bisk
Praised for perfectly al dente pasta, creamy lobster bisque, and sweet lobster meat; considered a luxurious and delicious pasta dish.
Celebration of Parsnip (Parsnip dessert)
Unique dessert featuring parsnip and brown butter cake with parsnip ice cream and crispy curls; noted for subtle flavors and creative texture contrasts that elevate parsnip to a star ingredient.
Carbonara
Highly praised as a fantastic pasta dish that impressed even those familiar with traditional Italian carbonara, appreciated for its unique twist and excellent taste.
Rack of Lamb
Described as the best lamb some reviewers have ever had, with a perfectly balanced umami and sweet sauce.
Bigoli in Leek Cream Sauce
Recommended for its thick pasta noodles served in a flavorful leek cream sauce with roasted mushrooms and parmesan, noted as different and delicious.
Steak Frites
Mentioned as a delicious main course option with well-prepared steak and fries.
Burger
Recommended as a must-try dish, noted for great taste among the menu options.
Location details
John's, 291 Water St, St. John's, Newfoundland and Labrador, A1C 1B9, CA
Open in Google MapsHours
| Monday | 5 to 9 PM |
|---|---|
| Tuesday | 5 to 9 PM |
| Wednesday | 5 to 9 PM |
| Thursday | 5 to 9 PM |
| Friday | 5 to 10 PM |
| Saturday | 5 to 10 PM |
| Sunday | Closed |
About The Merchant Tavern
Wood & iron decorate the industrial space at this tavern serving seasonal, local meals.
Amenities & services
Service options
- Onsite services
- Dine-in
Highlights
- Great beer selection
- Great cocktails
- Great coffee
- Great dessert
- Great tea selection
- Great wine list
Popular for
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Solo dining
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible entrance
- Wheelchair accessible restroom
- Wheelchair accessible seating
Offerings
- Alcohol
- Beer
- Cocktails
- Coffee
- Happy hour food
- Hard liquor
- Healthy options
- Late-night food
- Private dining room
- Small plates
- Vegetarian options
- Wine
Dining options
- Brunch
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Dessert
- Seating
- Table service
Amenities
- Bar onsite
- Restroom
- Wi-Fi
- Free Wi-Fi
Atmosphere
- Casual
- Cozy
- Historic
- Trendy
- Upscale
Crowd
- Family-friendly
- Groups
- Tourists
Planning
- Brunch reservations recommended
- Lunch reservations recommended
- Dinner reservations recommended
- Accepts reservations
- Usually a wait
Payments
- Credit cards
- Debit cards
- Credit cards
Children
- Good for kids
- Has changing table(s)
- High chairs
Parking
- Free street parking
- Paid parking garage
- Paid street parking
Frequently asked questions
What is The Merchant Tavern known for?
It is especially known for cod, with reviewers repeatedly praising the NL cod entree for its crispy top crust, moist texture, and caper sauce. Seafood like oysters, mussels, scallops, Arctic char, and snow crab also comes up often, along with seasonal local cooking and a strong tasting menu.
What dishes are most recommended at The Merchant Tavern?
Reviewers most often highlight the NL cod, seared scallops, beef tartare, oysters, mussels, and snow crab, plus dishes like lobster spaghettini and duck carpaccio on specials. Desserts also stand out, especially the Celebration of Parsnip and the coffee cake with orange mascarpone.
What is the atmosphere like at The Merchant Tavern?
The vibe is described as busy, lively, and vibey, with a mix of dim romantic seating, bright window tables, and a large central bar. It suits couples at the bar or in the darker dining area, but it also works for groups and families because the space is warm, welcoming, and family-friendly.
Is The Merchant Tavern good value, and what is the price range?
The Merchant Tavern is in the $$$ price range, so it is a higher-end meal, but reviewers say the portions, plating, and service make it worth the cost. People often mention leaving satisfied after multi-course dinners or tasting menus, with the quality of the cod, seafood, and desserts helping justify the price.
Do I need a reservation at The Merchant Tavern?
Yes, reservations are recommended for lunch, brunch, and dinner, and reviewers say the restaurant is often fully booked or has a wait. Several notes mention booking early, especially on busy nights like Friday, if you want a table or a seat at the bar.
Is parking available at The Merchant Tavern?
Yes. Free street parking, Paid parking garage, Paid street parking is available.
Does The Merchant Tavern have vegetarian options?
Yes, The Merchant Tavern offers vegetarian options.
Is The Merchant Tavern kid-friendly?
Yes, The Merchant Tavern is good for kids.
Restaurants like The Merchant Tavern in St. John's
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