More details are coming in on Philadelphia star Jose Garces’ plans for his first Chicago outpost, Mercat (it’s actually something of a homecoming for Garces, who was born in the Windy City).
Slated to open later this year, Mercat (“market” in Catalan) will focus on upscale Barcelonan-style tapas and charcuterie dispensed from an open kitchen. The setting – on the street level of the renovated Blackstone Hotel on South Michigan Avenue – will include soaring ceilings and much marble.
Small plates also figure big in Garces’ Philadelphia hits: Amada, the posh Andalusian-style tapas restaurant that's three blocks from the Liberty Bell, and Tinto, a tiny, Basque-themed small-plater, near tony Rittenhouse Square. Next spring, Garces expects to add to his Philadelphia empire with Chilango, whose food will take inspiration from Mexico City cuisine and whose decor will pay tribute to Mexican professional wrestlers.