A Slice of Old-World Charm in Westwood
Tucked into the heart of Westwood, NJ, Mercato is more than just a neighborhood pizzeria. It’s a thoughtfully designed space where the past meets the present, where every detail feels rooted in something real. When the owner, known for the beloved 9W Market in Palisades, set out to design the interiors of this new spot, he knew exactly where to turn for materials that would reflect the heart and soul of handmade food: Chief Bricks.
Reclaimed Red Bricks That Tell a Story
The interior walls of Mercato feature reclaimed red bricks supplied by Chief Bricks, each one salvaged, sorted, and delivered with its original character intact. Instead of laying the bricks in a typical wall pattern, the team chose to expose the brick faces just as they came, including names stamped into the clay from brickmakers of the past. These names, once hidden in New York and New Jersey buildings, now peek through the walls of Mercato, adding history and depth to every meal shared inside.
The Vision Behind the Design
The use of reclaimed bricks wasn’t an aesthetic afterthought, it was part of a larger vision to create a space that feels authentic, grounded, and local. The same ethos that made 9W Market a favorite among cyclists, hikers, and food lovers carries through to Mercato. It’s a place where everything has a purpose and a story, including the walls.
Why Reclaimed Materials Matter
For Chief Bricks, this project reflects what we stand for: materials with durability, sustainability, and timeless character. Reclaimed bricks aren’t just beautiful, they’re a reminder that the best design doesn’t always start from scratch. It builds on what came before.
Visit Mercato
Next time you’re in Westwood, step into Mercato. You’ll not only find great food—you’ll find brick walls with a past. And if you’re in Palisades, stop by 9W Market, the sister location that started it all. Both are proof that when you use the right materials, a space can speak for itself.
