Bright spot

continued

With only two months of a busy concert and theater season under its belt, Mercy's seemed to be working awfully hard just to keep up. The wine list is changing, and probably the menu will too when lunch becomes an option soon. Two charismatic servers say they've gotten everything under control after an admittedly challenging start.

I want to believe it. Yet there are still rough spots, like wobbly and too-tall tables, splashy water glass fillings, and too much distracting shop talk at the front of the house. Consistency was a challenge, too--our coffee was delicious one night but bitter another. The creme brulee came generously tall and cool one night, squat and warm another--yet creamy and luscious both times, with real vanilla bean specks in the bottom of the ramekin. Mango and banana crepes and a coconut rice dish were other fresh and wonderful desserts, and gluten-free chocolate and spice cake are also reportedly popular.

There's much to enjoy here--although a patient and forgiving attitude will enhance your experience, at least for now. If you liked the old Zanzibar's postcolonial pan-tropical fare, then you might love how Mercy's takes it to another level.

Mercy's
300 S. Thayer (Bell Tower Hotel)
996-3729
www.mercysrestaurant.com