Merci - Madison

This was my first visit to Merci, and we decided to take advantage of Restaurant Week. We arrived early, and the atmosphere was quite peaceful. The service was... read more This was my first visit to Merci, and we decided to take advantage of Restaurant Week. We arrived early, and the atmosphere was quite peaceful. The service was very attentive and accommodating. The food was quite good; the brioche appetizer and the salmon were excellent, and the desserts were fantastic. However, the spinach and mirepoix paired with the salmon beurre blanc were overly salty. On the bright side, the salmon itself was cooked perfectly. The Bulgogi had a nice balance of sweet and spicy flavors, but the meat tasted like it had been sitting out for a while instead of being freshly sliced. The side of rice and carrots was excellent, though. Overall, it was a mix of highs and lows. Ultimately, the great service and wonderful company made it an enjoyable evening.

They focus on farm-to-table food and it is delicious. I had the hunter chowder and a delicious sweet potato small plate. They also make a delicious gin and toni... read more They focus on farm-to-table food and it is delicious. I had the hunter chowder and a delicious sweet potato small plate. They also make a delicious gin and tonic. Atmosphere is great, sleek and modern but cozy at the same time. The staff are excellent. Very friendly and attentive.

Although we faced a long wait for our food due to the technical issues, it didn’t bother us since we had no time constraints, and we were graciously offered com... read more Although we faced a long wait for our food due to the technical issues, it didn’t bother us since we had no time constraints, and we were graciously offered complimentary drinks while we waited. Once the situation was resolved and everyone received their meals, the food proved to be outstanding. Chefs Troy and Tyler showcased their talents in creating flavorful and hearty dishes. As our food was finally served, the owner, Trish, came over to personally thank us for our patience and understanding. She was incredibly knowledgeable and genuine, with a wonderful perspective on life. Everything the restaurant offers carries a personal significance, and I was grateful for the chance to hear the stories behind the drinks. I cannot emphasize enough how delightful the atmosphere is and how wonderful the staff is. I look forward to returning in the summer when the windows fully open, creating an even more inviting space.

Madison's best-kept secret. I visited Merci on a Saturday evening with five friends, and it was a delightful experience. The food was rich, decadent, and absolu... read more Madison's best-kept secret. I visited Merci on a Saturday evening with five friends, and it was a delightful experience. The food was rich, decadent, and absolutely delicious. The portion sizes have improved since it was previously known as Field Table. The service was friendly and engaging without being intrusive. The owner, Trish, stopped by our table to ensure everything was to our liking, and the chef visited us twice—first to recommend entrees and then later to see how we enjoyed our meal. Unlike many establishments nowadays, the staff at Merci truly made us feel welcome and appreciated our choice to dine there. It was also surprisingly quiet for a Saturday evening, which is unfortunate, as the location boasts a stunning view of the capital and the restaurant is sleek, comfortable, and stylish. While the restaurant faced some challenges during its time as Field Table, I strongly encourage everyone to try Merci. The entire menu, including the drinks, features mostly local ingredients with a global flair. Overall, we had a fantastic dining experience. Thank you, Merci!

I loved Merci. The ambience is elegant, with uncovered brick walls, lots of warm wood, and funky decor. My Madison host pointed out the folding window-wall wher... read more I loved Merci. The ambience is elegant, with uncovered brick walls, lots of warm wood, and funky decor. My Madison host pointed out the folding window-wall where he sat this summer, enjoying fresh air and up-close view of the capitol. We bellied up to the bar, where we had a nice conversation with handsome young Sam, who sampled a champagne beer for us. Kat, our waitress, was a treat, too. When I complimented the decor, she insisted on showing me their private dining/ conference room, where I had to photograph the brick wall and text my friends about my first evening in Madison. I mentioned the room to my friend, who hadn't seen it himself, and was glad to know this was available, it sounded like he would be scheduling a couple meetings there. My French onion soup was delicious: a bit on the salty side, which is great for me but might be too much for some. The salad Nicoise was fresh and good; I almost hadn't ordered it because I dislike canned anchovies, but they were fresh little fillets, and the boiled eggs were done perfectly. The baguette slices really took the meal over the top, served with soft garlic butter topped with crunchy salt. My friend tried their chocolate torte after dinner, served with tiny scoops of homemade vanilla ice cream and strawberries, and the spoonful I tried nearly broke my resolve not to order dessert. It was a great place to impress a visitor to Madison, and I look forward to dining there again.