The Mercury, the second restaurant from partners Mike Blydenstein, Brooks Cloud and Julian Goglia, opened January 12 at Atlanta’s famed culinary destination Ponce City Market. The award-wining team behind The Pinewood in Decatur, Georgia, and Proof Old Fashioned Cocktail Syrups, have extended their cocktail-focused concept with their latest endeavor. Dubbed one of Atlanta’s most anticipated openings and hottest new bars for 2016, The Mercury is now open daily for lunch and dinner on the second floor of Ponce City Market’s Central Food Hall.
At The Mercury, Chef Blydenstein’s menu features a raw bar, chops and steaks, and classic American entrees. Beverage Director Julian Goglia curates a full-service bar program rooted in approachability and familiarity updated with modern technique, house made ingredients and premium spirits. “It’s exciting to be a part of the booming food scene in town, and particularly to be involved in one of the most highly regarded developments in Atlanta,” sats co-owner Brooks Cloud. “We are the only true craft cocktail experience at Ponce City Market and are so proud to be part of the family. Our unique interiors and warm ambiance are a nice balance to the industrial space, and we are excited to be the destination for visitors and residents alike.”
Blydenstein, Cloud, and Goglia worked closely with Atlanta’s Square Feet Studio to design the 4,400-square-foot restaurant. The 200-seat space is elegantly reminiscent of the 1950s and 1960s era with a mid-century modern interior that references not only the food but also the space capsule that inspired the name of the restaurant. It is anchored by a large 36-seat bar that is illuminated with classic globe pendants with silver tipped bulbs, fluted walnut panels and a stunning natural stone that is reminiscent of the surface of the moon. The space itself is rich with history, which is highlighted by exposing the original brick walls, rolling steel doors, time worn concrete columns and refinished the original floors. Dining areas are separated by dark teal-hued banquettes that were inspired by vintage car seats. The main dining room features stunning pendants with smoke glass bulbs that speak to the 1960s space race while adding a touch of glamour to the restaurant.
