If you've walked around Pawhuska during the last couple of months, you might have noticed that things were not quite rightâthe Drummond family hometown had one of its best restaurants out of commission for renovations. We are, of course, talking about The Mercantile.
Are we biased? Perhaps. Is it a fact that The Merc has some of the best food in town? Yes! Is the Merc's one-skillet scramble a breakfast staple? Most certainly.
Long story short, The Merc was undergoing a "much-needed spruce" since the space hadn't been updated for many a year. While the bakery remodel was completed a few weeks ago, the restaurant finally had its grand reopening just last week. And if you missed it in real-time, Ree shared some eye-popping videos of the new and improved space, and it's absolutely gorgeous. Let's just say we're all in love with the post-makeover Merc!
The Pioneer Woman has plenty of experience remodeling spaces, from The Merc's original construction to her "sister house" to the Lodge. This most recent transformation is oh-so-Ree, with tons of pretty pendants hanging from the ceiling and cherry red booths. Don't worry, though, it still has the exposed brick and old-school charm.
"Seeing the Merc restaurant filled with people is such a beautiful sight!! đ€© We are so excited to finally be re-opened to the public," wrote Ree. "Thank you for being patient for the past couple of months as we gave this place a much-needed spruce, hope you love it as much as we do."
The whole team fired up the stoves for a wild week full of food and friends. The Merc's official account also posted some highlights that were beyond heartwarming.
In the photo series, you can see customers heading into the space for the first time, staff posing for pics, and, most important, happy diners sitting down to enjoy their first meal back.
But the building isn't the only thing that got a makeover! Ree spent plenty of time with the chefs working on new items for the menu, including Reuben sandwiches to yogurt parfaits. BRBârunning over for lunch! đ
Micaela Bahn is a freelance editorial assistant and recent graduate from Carleton College, where she majored in English literature. She loves running, photography, and cooking the best new recipes.
