Dixon Mercantile adds Saturday hours
Alyssa Kennamer, left, and Laura Shannon serve up fresh-baked abundance at The Dixon Mercantile. In addition to the popular Sunday Brunch, they now offer a special Saturday menu, encouraging patrons to linger and enjoy the fire and each others’ company. (Carolyn Hidy/Valley Press)
Dixon’s Sunday brunch hot spot, The Dixon Mercantile, is now open Saturdays, too.
Don’t let the tiny size of the Dixon community fool you. The Sunday brunch, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., has grown into a favorite weekend gathering. Congenial lines sometimes form even out the door, with folks piquing their appetites, anticipating their turn for gourmet meals, plus artisanal breads, now-famous pies, and an atmosphere of old-time warmth and charm.
The Mercantile has now added an easygoing Saturday opportunity, with a simpler menu and full bakery case. They encourage all to come for a comfortable, peaceful place to relax by the fire, with excellent food, coffee, and company.
“It’s a great option for studying, reading, even hanging out and playing board games,” says owner Laura Shannon. With fresh baked sourdough and scones coming out of the oven all day, folks driving by can pick up a real treat for the road.
On “Third Thursdays” every month, The Dixon Mercantile is open for dinner with a community feel, and music, featuring “vinyl night.”
The next Third Thursday, Feb. 20, also includes the Writ Family Band from Missoula at 6 p.m. on their “two county tour.” This month’s theme is “red food,” says Laura.
In the spirit of bringing community together, people can contribute food or even pay for their dinners by washing dishes or otherwise helping out.
Laura says the Merc is testing the idea of being open more days during the summer, as the restaurant’s popularity is growing. They will add a farmers’ market, featuring local produce, arts and crafts, during the Sunday brunch. The restaurant can also be booked for special events and meetings.