Merrill & Co. was an eagerly anticipated (and hyped) South End restaurant that opened in March 2014 with quite a splash. For about three months it was the “IT” place to dine, but after an initial honeymoon it didn’t have the staying power and earlier this month several food blogs published what everyone in the neighborhood already knew — nobody eats at Merrill & Co. All one had to do was walk by on a weekend evening and you could see the place half empty.
Merrill & Co. will close Friday, June 19th
In an interesting twist the owners are creating a competition to find the right person to take over the space. While I don’t pretend to know how to run a successful restaurant or even what the rent there might cost here are some thoughts on what I think one needs to do to succeed in that space.
- The neighborhood doesn’t need anymore small plates restaurants.
- Unless you are going consistently crank out amazing food (and not just claim to) bring your average entrée price down to $18-$22.
- Do great comfort food or something ethnic the neighborhood doesn’t have to stand out. Some suggestions include: Greek, Moroccan, or a Japanese Noodle Bar — I’m thinking Ramen and Karaoke Bar.
- Create great bar scene at your restaurant where people can pick from a number of easy to eat options bar side.
- Do something with that beautiful patio while the weather is warm.
BosGuy 
I think you’ve hit it on the head. Take a look around the area and it’s obvious to see what the neighborhood does NOT need. Small plates, pretentious gastropubs and any “new takes” on Italian food. A good, moderately priced Greek Taverna would be amazing. I think the Ramen thing is getting overblown too, though. Another German/Eastern European place on par with Bronwyn would also be an outstanding addition.
LikeLike
I am sad to say that we never had a good experience there. Seems like a curse on that space ever since Appetito closed years ago.
I love the idea of a Ramen and Karaoke Bar – but they will need to adapt the license to a 2AM closing. I wish I still lived at 9 Appleton Street – I’d start a petition!
LikeLike
Reminds me of a place down the street from me. When it first opened you had to make a reservation to eat at Nick’s. Now it’s empty of people most nights. Shouldn’t be around much longer.
LikeLike
did you see this? its going to be a “competition” yikes… http://boston.eater.com/2015/6/15/8785333/merrill-co-closing-south-end-competition
LikeLike