Mercury Bar & Lounge: Downtown Kingston’s Newest Dining Experience for Modern Asian Fusion
By Rosalyn Gambhir
Kingston's foodie scene is buzzing with excitement, and it’s thanks to the arrival of Mercury Bar & Lounge, where modern Asian fusion meets the charm of our historic city. Led by the incredibly talented Chef Paulson George, this isn’t just another restaurant - this is an experience, crafted with passion, and a deep-rooted connection to food. With a menu inspired by Paulson’s rich culinary journey through India, China, Hong Kong, and beyond, Mercury Bar & Lounge offers a truly one-of-a-kind dining experience.
Meet Chef Paulson George
Paulson's story with food began long before he stepped into a professional kitchen. Growing up in South India, he was surrounded by the tantalizing aromas and vibrant flavours of home-cooked meals, thanks to his family's deep ties to the food industry. His mother, uncle, auntie, and grandfather all worked in the culinary world, making the kitchen a second home for young Paulson. It was here, amidst the spices and simmering pots, that his passion for cooking was ignited. Eager to hone his craft, Paulson pursued formal culinary training, setting the stage for what would become a remarkable journey through the world of food.
Culinary Journey
Armed with the rich traditions of Indian cuisine, Paulson embarked on a culinary adventure that took him far beyond his homeland. In 2009, he moved to China, where he was introduced to the diverse and delectable flavours of Asian cuisine- from Singaporean and Malaysian to Vietnamese and Thai. This period of exploration and learning was pivotal, expanding his culinary repertoire and deepening his appreciation for the complexity of Asian flavours.
In 2011, Paulson made his way to the prestigious Venetian Macao, known as much for its luxurious casinos as for its world-class dining options. Here, Paulson had the opportunity to work in multiple dining outlets, mastering his craft and refining his approach to blending flavours from different cultures. It was a period of intense growth, allowing him to perfect his skills and refine his approach to modern Asian fusion.
A Taste of Paulson's Journey
Mercury Bar & Lounge's menu is a compliment to Paulson's culinary adventures. Each dish tells a story, blending the traditions of his homeland with the techniques and flavours he's gathered from his global journey – a vibrant fusion of Western culinary traditions and Asian influences.
One standout dish is the Coco-licious Shrimp. This dish is a nod to Paulson’s South Indian heritage growing up in Kerala, featuring succulent shrimp coated in a house-made sauce, topped with grated coconut and fragrant curry leaves. It’s a dish that’s both comforting but also captures the essence of South India, while offering a fresh and modern twist - a must-try!
Another highlight on the menu is the Fish n Chips, but this isn’t your ordinary pub fare. Inspired by his time working at a Gordon Ramsay restaurant in Hong Kong, this dish features seared haddock, served with traditional mushy peas, tartar sauce, and crispy chips.
Kingston’s Newest Foodie Spot
After a decade of perfecting his craft across Asia, Paulson made his way to Toronto, Canada in 2021 bringing with him a wealth of culinary experience.
Now, he’s sharing his passion for modern Asian fusion with Kingston. Mercury Bar & Lounge isn’t just a restaurant - it’s a reflection of Paulson’s dedication to his craft, his respect for tradition, and his persistent pursuit of culinary excellence and achieving his dream of opening a restaurant.
Mercury Bar & Lounge located on Brock St is open seven days a week, ensuring you can satisfy your foodie cravings every day from 12 pm to 11 pm. Step inside, take a seat and let Chef Paulson George take you on a drool-worthy journey, right here in downtown Kingston. And if you're on the lookout for the perfect venue for your next event or party, look no further - Mercury Bar & Lounge has got you covered with its inviting ambiance and top-notch service after hours.
So, whether you're a Kingston local or just passing through, make sure to make Mercury Bar & Lounge your next lunch, dinner or late-night outing!
Featured Must-Try Dishes
● Togarashi Sesame Crusted Tuna:
Soba noodles with Julienne vegetables with Asian vinaigrette.
● Avocado Infused Hummus:
Pistachio dukkah with pomegranate served with pita bread.
● Ricotta Rendezvous:
Whipped ricotta cheese on a slide of sourdough with herbed mixed cherry tomatoes and bell pepper pesto.
● Itaewon beef burger:
Made with pulled beef brisket, Gochujang mayo, kimchi topped with smoked cheddar and a side of house fries or salad.
● Fish n Chips:
Seared haddock served with mushy peas, tartar sauce and crisp chips.
Favourite Local Spots
When asked about his favourite spot he’s discovered since being in Kingston, Chef Paulson lit up and didn’t hesitate to name Casa Domenico as his go-to.
Casa Domenico
35 Brock St, Kingston, ON K7L 1R7
Rosalyn Gambhir
I’m a daydreamer, a foodie, an adventurer, and an explorer. But most of all, a tourist in my own backyard of the limestone city rediscovering old favourites and hidden gems. As a proud Kingstonian for over a decade and an alumna of Queen's University, I has thrived in this vibrant community, which has fueled her creativity and passion for building a strong online community and supporting local businesses through my blogging, social media and freelance writing.
