The Merchant Kitchen & Drinks

The Merchant Kitchen & Drinks is a modern American brasserie at 60 Franklin St in Boston’s Downtown Crossing. Its dining room has an antique-inspired character, pairing a polished restaurant setting with a broad, approachable menu and a drinks program built around cocktails and beer.

The food draws from American brasserie traditions while making room for New England ingredients and international influences. The menu includes raw-bar selections, salads, soups, sandwiches, seafood, steak, pasta, burgers and vegetarian plates. Flavors range from familiar comfort food to dishes influenced by Asian, Mediterranean, Mexican and Southeast Asian cooking, giving the kitchen a flexible style suited to different appetites.

Seafood has a clear presence, with oysters, fish, calamari and other coastal choices appearing alongside meat and poultry. Vegetarian diners can find options built around vegetables, grains, pasta, tofu and cheese, while several dishes can be adapted with different proteins. The menu also includes shareable starters and smaller plates, making the restaurant suitable for a full meal or a more casual spread among the table.

The drinks selection is central to the experience. Cocktails provide a crafted option for lunch, dinner or an evening stop, while the beer list offers plenty of choice. The combination of substantial food, varied drinks and a room with vintage touches works for weekday meals, after-work gatherings, casual dates and social dinners.

The restaurant also handles private events and offers a private-room option, adding flexibility for celebrations, business occasions and larger get-togethers. Online ordering is available as well, extending the menu beyond the dining room. The Merchant Kitchen & Drinks suits diners looking for a full-service brasserie with a wide-ranging menu rather than a narrowly focused cuisine, especially when a group has mixed preferences.