The area around the Basilica is packed with various clubs and bars. Nearly everyone can find their place in this area, from the wine expert businessman to champagne-loving young girls, and even Budapest's trendy young-set. But new-comer 'Mericano offers more than an average bar. Good vibes for after work drinks, a kitchen that is open until midnight, unbelievably friendly staff and plenty of parking (although the M3 is just a few minutes away too).
The interior of ‘Mericano is the work of 81font architecture/design and Péter Szendrő, and thus appeals to today’s trends with sleek shapes and a simple design. It is not ostentatious or too colourful, and there are no unnecessary decorations or ruin pub-esque furniture. In other words, the design is unified and ready to compromise: it can be appealing to those from the downtown business area as well as tourists who want to experience a little bit of Budapest. The warm brick walls make a nice contrast with the colder, industrial pipes and copper lighting panel. Our only regret about the design is that they can never open up the inner courtyard, since the place is located at the bottom of a residential building.We can thank the Americanisation of Southern Italy after World War II for the Italian bar and cocktail culture, which is so much more than just the Martini-Campari-grappa holy trinity. ‘Mericano combines the best of Italian classics with something new and fresh. The two bar counters are loaded with the most unique drinks. It is obvious that the drink menu has been compiled with different tastes in mind; there are both familiar brands and unique delicacies. We were astounded by the 42-item whiskey selection, which includes nearly everything from bourbon to Japanese specialties.The cocktailselection is rather wide:; many of the drinks are homemade specialties (Negroni sbagliato - 1550 HUF, Mericano Ten Tonic - 1950 HUF), but we can stick with the usual classics (Mint Julep - 1650 HUF, White Russian - 1400 HUF), as well. Compared to the downtown cocktail prices, these are in the mid-upper range.
There is no Italian place without Italian food even in Budapest, so we cannot only drink, but munch in ‘Mericano. From their oven-baked pizzas, we tried the venue's specialty (2790 HUF) - it features San Daniele ham, ruccola and Parmesan. The crust is thin and crispy with rich toppings – nothing like the soft, doughy American versions. We can also choose from piadinas (1790 HUF) and salads (1590 HUF). Our favourite, however, was the creamy tiramisu (990 HUF) with just enough coffee in it.
The place is open from Wednesday to Saturday, between 5pm and 2am. On Wednesdays and Thursdays there are plans for acoustic concerts, while on the other days, we can shake what we have at the electro swing and funky/soul parties.
'Mericano
Address:
1051 Budapest, Sas Street 17.
Telephone:
+36 30 572 5331 Menu
