Traveling Mercies

Tucked away on the third floor of Stanley Marketplace, Traveling Mercies offers a refined escape from the bustle below: a compact yet radiant haven bathed in golden light by sunset, with maritime-inspired decor, wood-slatted ceilings evoking rolling waves, and a palette of cobalt blues, whites and warm honey tones that feels both nostalgic and coastal. Founded by celebrated chef Caroline Glover — recipient of a James Beard Award — the bar carries a warm, personal spirit. The name itself is inspired by a phrase her mother used to wish safe journeys, underlining an emphasis on care, comfort, and generosity. At Traveling Mercies, the menu revolves around the sea, showcasing raw-bar staples and seasonal coastal fare: East and West Coast oysters on ice, shrimp cocktails, razor clams, mussels escabeche toast, smoked trout rillettes — often plated as elegant, shareable “tackle boxes.” These dishes go beyond typical bar snacks, offering textures, brininess, and flavor depth you’d expect from a dedicated oyster house — a rare find inland. Pairing with seafood is taken seriously here. The drinks menu centers on thoughtfully crafted cocktails, many inspired by aperitivos, rum, or coastal flavors. Highlights include a house martini made with oyster-shell vermouth, tomato water, house brine and Kyro gin or Ketel One vodka — savory, bracing, salty-sea charm in a glass. Non-alcoholic cocktails are also part of the repertoire, broadening the appeal. Despite its small footprint (total seating is limited, creating an intimate vibe), there’s a warmth and generosity in the space that invites lingering. Golden light filters through windows at sunset, the clink of glasses and the quiet hum of conversation — it doesn’t aim to be loud or crowded, but rather comfortable, considered, and slightly special. Traveling Mercies has earned considerable acclaim: in 2024 it made Esquire Magazine’s list of “Best Bars in America,” and has been recognized by the James Beard Awards as a semifinalist for Best New Bar. Whether you’re in the mood for fresh oysters, a clever cocktail (or a thoughtful zero-proof drink), or a cozy evening with friends after work — Traveling Mercies blends seafood-house soul and cocktail-bar polish into a rare, refined gem worth discovering.