THIS RESTAURANT IS CLOSED Merenda

THIS RESTAURANT IS CLOSED Merenda Restaurant Review:

Merenda’s intimate room with rich red walls, exposed brick and a wall-length wine rack, has captured the homespun charm embodied by the husband-and-wife owners. Chef Keith Luce, who has spent time in the kitchens of La Cote Basque in New York, Spruce in Chicago and the nearby Plumpjack Café, now looks to the trattorias of the Mediterranean to inspire his soulful menu. Dinner is offered in two-, three- or four-course prix-fixe options. Starters include romaine hearts glistening with fresh lemon dressing and a shower of Parmesan and chicken livers served with balsamic-roasted Muscat grapes. Rustic house-made pastas are served with classic duck confit, sage-infused brown butter or an earthy walnut sauce. Roast meats flourish with the pristine flavors of their simple presentations. The pleasant wine director, Keith Fergel, will gladly assist in finding the perfect wine from the attractive list.