The Mermaid Inn is a cozy seafood restaurant with locations in the East Village, West Village, and Upper West Side. Every day there is a “Happy Hour and a Half” from 5:30 to 7pm at the bar and in the dining room. I was off from work this week, so I was able to arrive a little after 5:30pm to get started. The “Happy Hour and a Half” features wine, beer, and a few specialty cocktails as well as an assortment of small plates, including the mini clam chowder (rich and creamy), mermaid lobster sliders (fresh and buttery), shrimp corn dogs, and fried calamari. We ordered all of the above plus the smoked gouda mac & cheese (delicious) and fried brussels sprouts with bacon (I love brussels sprouts). The service was friendly, the host was super sweet, and the food was yummy — overall, a great spot!
The Mermaid Inn: 96 Second Avenue (between East 5th and 6th Street)

mini clam chowder

mermaid lobster slider

smoked gouda mac & cheese