After two and a half years serving a menu of Spanish classics in the style of food halls throughout Spain and Basque country, Bar Mercado is undergoing a transformation.
The menu will still be rooted in the shared plates layout, only the pleasures of small bites will now come in the form of Latin American cuisine. Opening chef and co-owner John Castellucci has passed the torch to new executive chef Raul Dominguez, his former sous chef. Dominguez formerly worked with chefs at Miller Union, Kyma, Bacchanalia, and Castellucci Hospitality Group’s Cooks & Soldiers. Luis Rodriquez from Iberian Pig, another Castellucci Group Restaurant, fills the role of executive sous chef.
Dominguez’s promotion kickstarted taking the menu in a slightly different direction, paying homage to his own heritage and upbringing. Fred Castellucci, president and CEO of CHG said the menu will be “remixed with a rendition of both playful and authentic street food-inspired dishes that celebrate the diversity of cultures of Latin America and Spain.” It’s organized by selections of tapas, empanadas, ensaladas, and platos grandes.
New items include avocado salad, yuca fries, pork belly aprepas, and street corn. Expect larger plates of Caribbean BBQ ribs, paella, whole fish, and a wagyu burger. Multiple versions of empanadas will be stuffed with chicken, short rib, and broccoli and cheese. The dessert menu will also be overhauled to fit the new theme.
Don’t fret, mainstays from the original menu are included in the revamp. Crispy artichokes and bikini, that tasty little sandwich of serrano ham, white American cheese, and truffle aioli will be available.
On the beverage side, new is an impressive selection of tequila and mezcal and a curated list of regional and South American beers and wines. Seasonal and signature cocktails will fit the new mold. Hopefully the famous Tomato King cocktail will remain. Word is out on this detail.
The interior of the Krog Street anchor is currently undergoing a refresh to complement the new culinary direction. There is a vibrant new color scheme, new booths described as “lush,” and updates to the patio. The space is being designed, in Castellucci’s words, “to embody the energy and nightlife of Latin America.” This includes tinkling string lights draped across the main dining room where the open kitchen is still the stage, only with new characters.
The restaurant remains open during the changes, Tuesday-Thursday from 5-10 p.m., Fridays from 5-11 p.m., Saturdays from noon to 11 p.m., and Sundays from 11 am to 9 p.m.
Bar Mercado (99 Krog Street NE, Atlanta; 404-480-4866, barmercadoatl.com)
