Merk's Tavern & Kitchen — Restaurant in Hoover

I don't like to make reviews like this. However, the food was extremely bad tonight. When we walked in, no one seated us. We eventually went up to the bartender behind the bar to ask for seating options. They said to sit anywhere. The tables were all dirty. We sat at a dirty table and asked the waiter to clean the water off of it. Once we ordered, our food was the worst part. The rice was raw for the salmon dish - completely inedible. The plates were very hot (microwaved). The steak we ordered was rare not medium. I usually do not complain about food but this was the one case where it could not be excused. I asked the waiter to bring the rice back to the chef and all they did was send me some additional rice. Staff never apologized for the horrible food. I didn't have the energy to complain tonight. I was too tired from my trip. This was my father's day meal for my dad. Extremely...

I had the most amazing service I’ve ever experienced at a restaurant! Every single person here was exceptional—zero complaints, just pure appreciation.

While exploring food options in the mall, I was greeted warmly by the hostess. I smiled and, after considering my choices, decided to sit down for one of the best dinners in Alabama. Sharlyn, you are an absolute joy! Dining with you felt like coming home, and I can’t thank you enough for making my experience so special.

I initially had some doubts based on previous reviews, but I’m so glad I chose to come here. This was one of my most memorable meals, and I truly hope that the next time I visit, you’ve moved on to even greater things—you deserve it!

Thank you, Sharlyn, for your outstanding service. It was a pleasure...

Some co-workers and I went here for lunch recently. There was hardly anyone else there and we only ordered burgers. It took about 45 minutes to get our food. The waitress was nice enough, but by the time our food came we had to get to-go boxes and get back to work. To top it off, they 'surcharged' us like $3.75 each since there were 6 of us. They charged me over $22 for a grilled chicken sandwich, fries, and a coke.

The food was pretty good, but not spectacular. Certainly not worth $22. The atmosphere is relaxing, which is good if you're having a stressful day. This place might be OK if you've got more than an hour to eat and less than 6 people. Even then though, it's going to be slow and expensive. I had a bad experience overall and...