The Partisan — Restaurant in Merced

I used to come here every weekend before their remodel, so I was anxious to see the improvements they made in the 4 years they were closed. When we first arrived, we were pretty impressed with the way everything looked, except for how big and empty the lounge area seemed to feel. Once we got the menu (with no prices on them) and were told "about" how much each drink would cost, we ordered and kept a tab open. We were pretty relaxed and having a nice conversation with some "Dumb and Dumber" playing on the tv above, when out of nowhere they announced WAY TOO LOUDLY that they were starting an open mic period of the evening. I have no problem with local talent showing off a bit in a nice bar, but this was very awkward. The sound people couldn't balance the mics and amps, the speaking/singing mic was WAY too loud for the 15 total people in the building, and it seemed to just change and ruin the mood of the entire place while it was occurring. We promptly downed our beers, paid, and left, when before the open-mic portion occurred we had planned to stay and have at least one more.

TL;DR The bar looks fancy albeit a bit empty and don't go during open mic night unless you want your eardrums accosted with mildly amusing...

If you remember the partisan before the remodel.. then you know if it's rich history.

You know that it's locally owned by friends and family.. and has always been a platform for musicians of the days of old.. The jazzy.. The bluesy..

And is now been handcrafted to be a new revamped partisan.. That still holds on to the traditional values of booking quality acts of various genres and allowing people to gather their for numerous reasons..

To be open to the possibility of hearing something new seen someone special and having a delicious drink.. or two..

I will say to the people of their Merced area sometimes you're a little stiff and when people are performing you talk a little too loud.. and have a hard time showing a level of spectatorship that performers deserve..

You may not be aware of it but your voice is cackling about bounce off the walls and pull forward towards the stage and do a great job sometimes of showing the performers and musicians and bands that you have very little interest in what they're doing..

Which is ok. If you have no idea we're u are or how to act. 🤷

But if you like music show a little respect when people are playing.

Just thought I'd throw that out there.

But by all means carry on...

We have always enjoyed the Partisan. Loved it back in the old days when the bar was low and it was always dark and cool. Since then, it's been remodeled, and it's absolutely beautiful. The ceiling is gorgeous and detailed...the bar is lovely. The bartenders are always friendly and they make some really tasty and creative drinks. Whenever we get the chance we stop in for a sip, and we always have a nice time. I love that they have open mics, live music, and fun events. Way to go, Partisan!! So glad you are back, we...