Wine Bar News
Longtime Dallas wine bar uncorks surprise new location in Las Colinas
An Addison wine bar and restaurant that's been pouring for nearly 17 years is launching a second location.
Mercy Wine Bar, one of Dallas' most enduring spots for wine drinkers, is headed for Las Colinas' Toyota Music Factory, where it will occupy a spot in what was originally the Billy Bob's space.
Mercy owner Glen Agritelley says it's considered expanding in the past and seized what was a great opportunity.
"Over the years, we've looked at a variety of different venues in different parts of town," Agritelley says. "This space was originally built out to be a wine bar with a very big kitchen. It was fully outfitted — everything was there, and all we had to do was make a few cosmetic changes."
It'll be in the space above the Green Gator Cajun Sports Bar, with an expansive view overlooking the concourse.
With its focus on wine and its cozy atmosphere, Mercy has been a destination both for wine drinkers and hot dates. It's received accolades for its wine list and romantic atmosphere from local and national publications, including Wine Spectator's Award of Excellence.
It also runs frequent happy hour specials and a menu of wine-friendly dishes, including shareable items such as cheese plates and flatbreads.
Agritelley says Mercy works hard to stay fresh, with actions like updating its patio and staying on top of trends in wine.
"We've tried to evolve so that we're not doing the same thing we were doing 17 years ago," he says. "Every week, [wine manager] Vince Havard is tasting more than 100 wines a week. It's a constant influx of new product and experiences, and we have regulars who count on us for that."
The food offering at Las Colinas will be the same as what it offers in Addison, including the signature mussels, filet mignon, and salmon with strawberry glaze, so old it feels almost new again.
"We will be a full restaurant, which a lot of people still don't know about us," he says. "We're open for lunch and will be open for lunch in Las Colinas, from 11 am to 1 am."
One huge change from Addison: The Las Colinas location will have a full liquor license. Addison serves only beer and wine.
"That's really dictated by the area," he says. "But we'll maintain identity as Mercy, and the emphasis will continue to be on wine. We'll just also offer hard liquor."
Mercy will join a growing roster of restaurants and bars at the complex, including Thirsty Lion, Yard House, Nosh & Bottle, Reservoir, and Burgerim.
Agritelley hopes to open by the beginning of December.