Author Archives: BosGuy Blog

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.

1. The neighborhood doesn’t need anymore small plates restaurants.
2. Unless you are going consistently crank out amazing food (and not just claim to) bring your average entrée price down to $18-$22.
3. 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.
4. Create great bar scene at your restaurant where people can pick from a number of easy to eat options bar side.
5. Do something with that beautiful patio while the weather is warm.