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Mermaid Oyster Bar

RESTAURANT SUMMARY

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Where New York City's largest raw bar meets coastal culinary artistry, Mermaid Oyster Bar transforms the bustling Times Square dining scene with its spectacular 30-square-foot white marble oyster station and 15,000-square-foot seafood sanctuary that celebrates both East and West Coast maritime traditions.

Born from the acclaimed Mermaid Inn legacy, this ambitious expansion represents the vision of restaurateurs Danny Abrams and Cindy Smith, partnering with Jeffrey Bank of the Alicart Restaurant Group. Executive Chef Michael Cressotti, a 25-year culinary veteran who has shaped iconic New York establishments including Patria and The Red Cat, leads the kitchen with nearly a decade of Mermaid expertise. Under his direction, the restaurant has earned recognition as a premier seafood destination, filling a crucial gap in Midtown's fine dining landscape with its grand-scale oyster bar concept.

The cuisine showcases Chef Cressotti's mastery of coastal flavors through signature creations like Lobster Knuckles "Escargot-Style" with parsley garlic butter, the celebrated "Nearly Famous" Lobster Roll, and innovative Mermaid Fish Tacos. The menu spans from pristine Tuna Crudo and Maryland Crab Cakes to sophisticated preparations like Pan-Roasted Chatham Cod and Whole Mediterranean Branzino. The extensive raw bar features carefully curated oysters from both coasts, while creative appetizers include Shanghai Spare Ribs and New England Clam Chowder with bacon and fingerling potatoes. The restaurant accommodates diverse palates with non-seafood options and elevated sides like Smoked Gouda Mac & Cheese.

The experience unfolds across 285 seats designed for both intimate dinners and celebratory gatherings, with the gleaming marble raw bar serving as the restaurant's dramatic centerpiece. The atmosphere balances bustling energy with refined comfort, enhanced by polished service from knowledgeable staff who expertly guide guests through seafood selections and beverage pairings. The comprehensive drink program features signature cocktails like the Hot & Dirty alongside an international wine list curated specifically for seafood. The celebrated happy hour draws both locals and visitors with chef's choice oysters and creative small plates.

Mermaid Oyster Bar represents the pinnacle of New York City fine dining for seafood enthusiasts, offering an unparalleled combination of scale, quality, and culinary innovation. Reservations are recommended for this sought-after destination, particularly during peak dining hours when the raw bar becomes the city's most vibrant seafood theater.

CHEF

Various

ACCOLADES

(2025) Opinionated About Dining Casual in North America Ranked #867

(2024) Opinionated About Dining Casual in North America Ranked #838

CONTACT

89 MacDougal St, New York, NY 10012

+1 212-260-0100

FEATURED GUIDES

NEARBY RESTAURANTS

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