Good things about the Merc Bar:
  It's dark inside and the decor makes it feel kinda swanky.
  The service is very friendly.
  They have lots of comfy chairs and couches for anyone to sit down.
  The location is good - in the Esplanade, right across from the Biltmore,  where there's lots of restaurants you might be eating at (and includes free parking in the garage if you validate!) and it's kinda hidden, so you feel cool going there.
  They have a great drink menu with a wide selection.

Minus one star because the drinks are a little on the pricey side.

I know there have been some negative reviews about the old age of the regular patrons, but honestly, when I've been there, it's been a good mix of 20-somethings to 40-somethings.  If you're in the Biltmore area, Merc Bar is definitely a place worth checking out as a start to the night or for a date.