Hit with the sudden desire to stand like a child at the case of pastries upon entering, this particular Sunday smelled of a cozy home-cooked meal and dozens of sweets. Not even minding the chatter and lines of satisfied customers who had just devoured their meals, I just wanted to take one of everything in the display case. If you have a sweet tooth, this is your heaven. While the prospect of consuming every sweet delight was tantalizing, I exercised some restraint. I chose four treats based on their popularity and recommendations from some friendly staff members — a buttery smooth chess square, a peanut butter bar with marshmallows, a magic bar with coconut and caramel, and a classic chocolate chip bar. My tastebuds were in pure bliss.
The chess square was by far my absolute favorite. Its buttery smooth filling melted in my mouth with every bite, and the cream cheese topping added the perfect hint of tartness to balance the overall sweetness. Following closely behind in terms of my personal favorites was the peanut butter bar, which was like savoring a spoonful of gooey peanut butter filling topped with a thick layer of marshmallow fluff — an unexpectedly good pairing. Next, with its soft filling and layers of coconut flakes and pecans, the magic bar infused its textures into one another. Lastly, the chocolate chip bar evoked memories of a chocolate chip cookie cake but with an elevated taste profile.
Downstairs, a tiny ice cream shop, an extension of The Mercantile’s charm, beckoned with its array of frozen delights. With a small selection of flavors, it offered the perfect conclusion to those who prefer an icy treat if they chose to eat a hearty meal upstairs. Whether you choose a cone or a cup, this petite parlor is a perfect spot to enjoy a creamy scoop. My choice of peanut butter fudge was undoubtedly the best for me — luscious, fudgy, and enough nuttiness to keep me wanting more. Whether you’re seeking a cozy meal or a heavenly array of sweets, The Mercantile is a must-visit destination for those who appreciate the goodness in every bite. GN
