THIS RESTAURANT IS CLOSED Merkato 55

THIS RESTAURANT IS CLOSED Merkato 55 Restaurant Review:

Merkato 55 in the heart of the not-so-exotic Meatpacking District is adorned with lamps, puka shells, branches, and photos of food markets and fish stalls. The menu offers an equally eclectic choice of African-inspired “little bits” (kidogo), African breads, and larger dishes which could more accurately be considered a blend of African, Caribbean and South American. Crispy, paper-thin plantain chips would be ordinary anywhere else, but not here where they are well matched to coriander chutney and lamb tartare. Shrimp piri piri and chicken doro wat are standouts that are good for sharing. Collard greens complement the medley of spices and tastes, adding their own distinctive flavor. Cocktails and wines also take on a global sensibility including a sogba, the restaurant’s spin on a mojito which blends light rum, ginger beer, bay leaf and fresh mint. The restaurant is a great choice for a “destination” evening, capable of transporting you across the African continent while you dine in one of the city’s trendiest neighborhoods.