What should I order at The Mermaid?
The Mermaid
Monkfish Curry
Recommended multiple times for being exceptionally good, bold, aromatic, and packed with meaty monkfish in a creamy spiced sauce. Reviewers specifically called it 'to die for' and praised how perfectly cooked the monkfish was.
Mussels
Frequently praised as a standout starter for being sweet, tender, fresh, and well paired with garlic and white wine broth. Several reviews highlighted them as a great or excellent choice.
Scallops
Mentioned as buttery, delicate, and seared perfectly, with one review especially praising the combination with pork belly and apple purée. They were described as a highlight of the meal.
Mermaid Fish Platter
Recommended for its generous portions and variety of fresh seafood with great texture and flavor. Reviewers described it as ideal for sharing and a standout main.
Pork Belly
Praised for being delicious and especially good when paired with scallops or served as a main. It was singled out as one of the best dishes and repeatedly mentioned positively.
Seafood Pot
Recommended for offering a large amount of very fresh mixed seafood at a good price. Reviewers liked the value, variety, and generous portion size.
Cornish Smokies
Described as superb and one of the most memorable mains. It was specifically highlighted as a dish worth ordering again.
Beef Stir-Fry
Mentioned as amazingly good and very well presented, making it a notable non-seafood option that still received strong praise.
Bread And Butter Pudding
Called a must-have dessert by one reviewer and included among the best parts of the meal, showing it stood out as a popular sweet choice.
Cheesecake In A Jar
Highlighted as part of the dessert selection and described as a highlight, suggesting it was especially well liked.
Location details
Mermaid Seafood Restaurant, 21 Fish St, Saint Ives, TR26 1LT, GB
Open in Google MapsHours
| Monday | 6 to 9 PM |
|---|---|
| Tuesday | 6 to 9 PM |
| Wednesday | 6 to 9 PM |
| Thursday | 6 to 9 PM |
| Friday | 6 to 9 PM |
| Saturday | 6 to 9 PM |
| Sunday | Closed |
About The Mermaid
Local fish and seafood in wood-panelled room with church pews, hung with fishing nets and photos.
Amenities & services
Service options
- Onsite services
- Dine-in
Highlights
- Great coffee
- Great dessert
- Great wine list
Popular for
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Solo dining
Offerings
- Alcohol
- Beer
- Cocktails
- Coffee
- Hard liquor
- Healthy options
- Late-night food
- Small plates
- Wine
Dining options
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Dessert
- Seating
- Table service
Amenities
- Bar onsite
- Restroom
Atmosphere
- Casual
- Cozy
- Historic
- Romantic
Crowd
- Groups
- Tourists
Planning
- Lunch reservations recommended
- Reservations required
- Dinner reservations recommended
- Accepts reservations
Payments
- Credit cards
- Debit cards
- NFC mobile payments
- Credit cards
Children
- High chairs
- Kids' menu
Parking
- Usually difficult to find a space
Frequently asked questions
What is The Mermaid known for?
The Mermaid is best known for its seafood, especially the Mermaid Fish Platter, mussels, and seafood pot. Reviewers also call out monkfish and seafood skewers for being fresh, well cooked, and generously portioned.
What dishes are most recommended at The Mermaid?
Frequent recommendations include the Mermaid Fish Platter, mussels in white wine and garlic broth, the seafood pot, and the monkfish skewers with tiger prawn, chorizo, and halloumi. Other dishes that come up positively are Cornish Smokies, slow roasted pork, and the steak with port and Stilton sauce.
What is the atmosphere like at The Mermaid?
The atmosphere is cozy, historic, and lively, with wood-panelled decor, church pews, fishing nets, and photos on the walls. It suits groups and couples alike, and reviewers mention warm hospitality, unhurried service, and a setting that feels away from the main tourist spots in St Ives.
Is The Mermaid good value, and what is the price range?
The Mermaid is in the £20 to £60 range, and reviewers often describe the prices as reasonable for the portion sizes and freshness. People specifically mention feeling full and satisfied, with a seafood pot priced at a little over £20 and house wine around £17 to £20.
Do you need to book ahead at The Mermaid?
Yes, booking ahead is strongly advised, and some reviews say reservations are essential because the restaurant fills up quickly. Guests mention booking months in advance or checking the website for a last-minute slot, especially during half term and other busy periods.
Is parking available at The Mermaid?
Yes. Usually difficult to find a space is available.
Is The Mermaid kid-friendly?
Yes, The Mermaid is good for kids.
Restaurants like The Mermaid in Saint Ives
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