The Mermaid Inn Upper West Side

- 335 Columbus Ave, New York, NY 10023

In the vibrant heart of the Upper West Side, where bustling city life meets neighborhood charm, The Mermaid Inn stands out as a true culinary gem. This well-loved restaurant is a go-to spot for New Yorkers and visitors alike seeking fresh, high-quality seafood in a relaxed yet trendy setting. The Mermaid Inn has built a solid reputation on its commitment to delicious, well-executed dishes and a welcoming atmosphere that makes every guest feel like a local. From the moment you step inside, you're greeted with a casual and cozy ambiance that evokes the feel of a coastal retreat, all while being just steps away from the energy of Columbus Avenue.

The culinary philosophy at The Mermaid Inn is centered on bringing the best of the sea to the city. The menu is a delightful showcase of both classic and inventive seafood dishes, from expertly prepared fresh fish to creative small plates and the restaurant’s signature "Nearly Famous" Lobster Roll. Beyond the food, the establishment is known for its excellent beverage program, featuring great cocktails and a thoughtful wine list that pairs perfectly with the menu. This combination of stellar food and drink, delivered with fast and friendly service, is what makes The Mermaid Inn a popular choice for everything from a quick weeknight dinner to a special celebratory meal. It's a place that effortlessly blends a comfortable neighborhood feel with a high standard of culinary excellence.

The experience at The Mermaid Inn is often highlighted by its exceptional service. As one customer review attests, the staff, such as their server Charles, are not just attentive but "super familiar with the menu- and wine," making guests feel "like we were family." This personalized and welcoming service transforms a simple meal into a memorable event. The restaurant's ability to be "beyond accommodating," even for walk-in guests on a busy night, speaks to their dedication to hospitality. This warm and inviting atmosphere, combined with a trendy and cozy interior, makes The Mermaid Inn a place you want to return to again and again. It’s a testament to the fact that great food is even better when served with genuine kindness and enthusiasm.

The Mermaid Inn is ideally located on the Upper West Side at 335 Columbus Ave, New York, NY 10023, USA. This prime spot places it within easy reach of some of the city's most popular attractions, including the American Museum of Natural History and Central Park. Its location on Columbus Avenue provides a perfect backdrop for a pre-theater dinner or a post-museum bite. Accessibility is a key feature of the restaurant's location. For those traveling by public transportation, the B and C trains at 81st Street, as well as the 1 train at 79th Street, are all just a short walk away. This makes it convenient for anyone in Manhattan or the surrounding boroughs to get to. For those driving, paid street parking is available, though it can be competitive. The restaurant also makes a conscious effort to be accessible for all guests, with a wheelchair-accessible entrance and wheelchair-accessible seating. This focus on inclusivity ensures that everyone can enjoy their dining experience comfortably.

The Mermaid Inn offers a robust selection of services designed to provide a flexible and enjoyable dining experience for all its patrons. The offerings cater to various needs, from a quick meal to a leisurely dinner.

• Dine-in and Takeout: Whether you want to soak in the cozy atmosphere or enjoy your meal at home, The Mermaid Inn accommodates both dine-in and takeout orders.
• Brunch and Dinner: The restaurant is a destination for both dinner and brunch, offering a full menu for each service.
• Happy Hour: A significant highlight is the happy hour, which includes specials on drinks and food, making it an excellent spot for a post-work get-together. The menu includes mini clam chowder, mini fish tacos, and crispy calamari at special prices.
• Table Service and Reservations: The restaurant offers attentive table service and accepts reservations, which are highly recommended, especially for dinner, to ensure a smooth dining experience.
• Family-Friendly Amenities: For families, The Mermaid Inn provides a kids' menu, high chairs, and even a changing table, making it a comfortable and convenient choice for those dining with children.

Beyond its core services, The Mermaid Inn is celebrated for several key features and highlights that enhance the overall experience. The bar is a central attraction, boasting a fantastic wine list and a creative selection of great cocktails, like the "Raise Your Glass" and the "Triple Crown." The food is a major highlight, with a diverse menu that includes comforting dishes like "Old Bay Fries" and "Smoked Gouda Mac & Cheese," as well as fresh and healthy options. The restaurant is particularly known for its oysters and seafood platters, perfect for sharing. The atmosphere is described as casual, cozy, and trendy, making it popular with a diverse crowd, including groups and tourists. The fast service and the quality of the food and drinks combine to create a truly memorable experience.

For inquiries, reservations, or to place an order, you can contact The Mermaid Inn Upper West Side directly. Their phone number is (332) 322-6236, and the mobile number is +1 332-322-6236. The restaurant's address is 335 Columbus Ave, New York, NY 10023, USA. They accept both credit and debit cards, making for a quick and easy payment process.

What makes The Mermaid Inn a truly exceptional choice is its ability to deliver on all fronts—food, service, and atmosphere. As one customer review points out, while the shrimp cocktail was "just okay," the main courses were "the stars." The "Nearly Famous" Lobster Roll is noted for overflowing and having a kick, the sea bass is praised for being "so fresh and light," and the fish tacos are described as "mouth-watering." The "Mermaid Wedge" salad is even called a "new fav wedge in all of NY." Another review highlights the tasty food and "lovely and welcoming" service, praising the reasonable value for the quality and experience. The fact that the restaurant can be a go-to for a single person's dinner as well as a great spot for a family with children speaks to its versatility. The positive feedback about the food quality and the remarkable service, especially from staff members like Charles, demonstrates that The Mermaid Inn consistently provides a high-quality, memorable dining experience. For anyone in the Upper West Side seeking fresh seafood and a fantastic all-around experience, this is a destination worth visiting.

The Mermaid Inn Upper West Side

335 Columbus Ave, New York, NY 10023, USA