Eater on the Scene: The Mercantile Party

Eater was at the scene for The Mercantile's friends & family party last night. George Abou-Daoud's gourmet market/deli/wine bar in the heart of Hollywood is set to open next week. Kris Morningstar's busy kitchen prepared house-made pâté, smoked trout mousse, tuna-stuffed peppers, salty caramels, butterscotch bars (with real scotch), ice-cream sandwiches, and PB&J macarons. Guests also sampled from the bar's selection of 50+ wines which will be available by the half-glass, full glass, carafe, and bottle. The retail shelves were full of gourmet oil, vinegar, Spanish imports, raw honey & honeycomb, and more.

Added bonus? The still-in-progess District space next door was open too. Rustic brick walls, giant wood bar, vintage fixtures and more. [ELA]

But enough words, here're some photos. [flickr.com/grassfire]