The Merchant House 1820 in Shropshire

This was the first time we had visited The Merchant House and was very pleasantly surprised. From the moment we stepped through the door we were made to feel very welcome and comfortable. The owner/chef/bar tender created 2 delicious cocktails for us. We didn't have time to try one of the extremely tempting meals this time but have booked to come in again next weekend. Highly recommend trying - you will not be disappointed.

I rarely write reviews with regard to restaurants -- as I have dined in many in my life time -- my expectations being so high -- that seldom do they tick the basic boxes that would warrant praise. The unexpected happened however upon entering a small bistro owned and run by a husband and wife team, Simon and Stephanie. My wife and I were greeted by the lovely Stephanie who takes care of front of house and who made us comfortable with a friendly chat whilst preparing our favourite drinks. The Merchant House 1820 has a charming, rustic and comfortable ambience about it that lends itself to nothing but contentment. Our chosen dishes were expertly prepared in full theatrical view by Simon, an experienced chef who knows his flavours and incorporates a twist that enlightens the taste buds. The beef was cooked to beautifully, lean, tender and well rested and the chicken was crisp and succulent. There are no salt and pepper condiments on the table as they are not needed. As I mentioned -- Simon knows his flavours and everything was seasoned to perfection. All in all this little bistro packs a punch and lifts food to another level -- and with its friendly atmosphere it certainly ticked all my boxes. We also learned from Stephanie that occasional live music events take place there -- I will surely book our table to experience this. In conclusion I would highly recommend this place to all who love food with great atmosphere.

Fantastic evening had at this intimate gem of a restaurant. The food was out of this world - and cooked in front of us by chef Simon who was very interesting & knowledgeable. The team here are husband & wife and they are both equally as welcoming, lovely and friendly. We also enjoyed a few tasty cocktails & wine too. My husband & I have been fortunate enough to have eaten in a lot of amazing restaurants and The Merchant House 1820 is up there with the best of them. Highly recommend a visit here to anyone & we can’t wait to eat here again.

Best breakfast in town. Great little place, and definitely somewhere I’ll be returning. Worth walking into town to visit. Really friendly, decent music (including live music) and obviously run by a couple that care about more than just putting food on a plate.

Upon arriving at The Merchant House 1820 we were greeted by Steph and chef Simon and had a very warm welcome! Service was very good and all the food was prepared and cooked right in front of us, and to a very high standard. I had the Philly cheese steak which was cooked perfectly and we also had the pork cheek and mash, to finish it all off we had one of Simon's signature pancakes, which is the best we've had! As well as food, they have artists perform and these nights are not to be missed. Cozy atmosphere, great company and amazing food, what's not to like!

We had the pleasure of dining at Merchant House 1820 whilst visiting family in the area of Market Drayton. We were invited to join them to eat there and our experience was exceptional. We were welcomed by Simon and Steph on arrival and were looked after from start to finish. They make an excellent team and hosted so well to make sure our visit and experience was just right. The food dishes we tried were amazing, freshly prepared and cooked to perfection. We shared some fries to start off with which were cooked and seasoned beautifully. The steak in particular was a super highlight and went down a treat. My wife particularly enjoyed it to the point of saying she hadn’t tasted anything like it before. It was second to none. Oh and the banana and cream pie was delish! A firm recommendation if and when you are in the area. In fact a must try. We could not have asked for more...well apart from the next visit.

Oh my goodness... I went to The Merchant House 1820 with some of my family and friends yesterday afternoon to try a taster menu of the current menu plus some specials.... just WOW. 1. The husband and wife duo that make up this cooking sensation are so friendly. Having children themselves, this has made them so accommodating and child friendly. My neices and nephew had a whale of a time playing with their two delightful daughters. 2. So clean and orderly! Simon cooks front of house so you can watch the master at work and chat away. 3. The location is beautiful and the restaurant itself is so well laid out and comfortable. Amazing vibes! 4. Last but not least, THE FOOD.... oh my goodness... stake cooked to perfection... it literally melted in our mouths, pulled pork cheek baguettes so flavorful and tender, chicken wings with the best home made BBQ sauce I've EVER had, arancini that was crispy on the outside and cheesy and smooth and delicious on the inside served with the most delicious, fresh marinara sauce, lasagne (which I had no room for Hahaha) which everyone loved, the most delicious salad complete with in house made pickled courgettes, fries so crispy and light you wouldn't believe.... and to top it off in house made banana cream pie..... each meal with made with 100% effort, skill and love. Just wow! It really was the best afternoon ever!

We found this restaurant by accident walking through the town from our canal boat. Decided to give it a go as it looked lively. Very small menu cooked in front of you out the open kitchen by the chef and patron, served by his wife. Great food and he will cook something off menu if you request. Excellent food, atmosphere and value. Recommended.