eatdrink

We're hearing buzz that Mercato has finally opened. You may recall that this is the italian restaurant - located on the corner of NW 9th and Couch in the Pearl District - that was originally said to be opening months and months ago.

A knowledgeable poster over at PortlandFood.org writes:

Plan as far as I know (insider info!) is that they will be open this Thursday for dinner, Friday for lunch and dinner and B-L-D on Saturday. Hours will be 7am-10pm. It's not a 'full-service' joint, but rather you order at the counter and have your food deliver to your table.

Menu looks a lot like Lucca's. What's with Portland and the "Rustic Italian"? Is there really *that* much of a demand for it? lol.

They have a small wine list, 8-10 wines. All Italian and interesting. Pasta's, roasted meats, paninis, pizza. A little Northern, little Southern, little Island fare. Everything looks nice. Lots of cheese!

UPDATED TO ADD: Mercato actually ended up serving its first dinner on Saturday night, and today (Monday 2/4) will be their first lunch service. We walked past the restaurant this morning and chatted with some employees who were quite nice.