The Siren Call of the Mermaid

Past the charred remnants of Sharkeez, the billiard tables in Shark’s Cove and the revelers along Pier Ave. in HB is The Mermaid, a swanky dive right on the beach. It’s complete with a piano, horseshoe bar and two surly bartenders, who don’t take credit cards on busy Friday night. And it’s not 2-for-1 drinks either, contrary to some beliefs. Still highly recommended for drinks. There's room at the bar or in the gangster booths. At right is a photo of Ryan Abrahams' Crazy Hat Bar Crawl in HB that included the legendary Mermaid. Hat's off to ya, Ryan.

Some other reviews:
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Trip Advisor:

Traveler rating: 1 of 5 stars
Hermosa Beach: Mermaid Restaurant: "The bartender had a problem with my black friends"
Jan 18, 2006: A TripAdvisor Member, Los Angeles

Yes, this place has been around a long time. I dug the atmosphere - until we ordered drinks.

My friend offered his credit card to pay for the round. "I'm sorry, but this is a cash only bar". Okay, he goes off to find an ATM.

Meanwhile, we sat down in a booth behind a bar - and what did we see? A credit card machine. I think, “Interesting, perhaps it doesn't work.” I was wrong. The bartender (older gentleman) came around and proceeded to ring up two orders on credit cards.

So I ask, “Do you accept credit cards here?” He looks around and sees who I am with and replied, "Only when it's not busy".

Right. The place was pretty empty - there were no more than 20 people in the bar.

So no, I do not recommend frequenting this establishment.
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Trip Avisor:
Traveler rating: 4 of 5 stars
Hermosa Beach: Mermaid Restaurant: "Historic mainstay of Hermosa"
Jan 21, 2005: A TripAdvisor Member, Hermosa Beach, Ca

The Mermaid is a landmark of Hermosa Beach with a traditional 50's ish menu. Walking through the door tells you they've been there for a long time and have had no reason to change a thing! From the real piano bar, with stools all around to the red vinyl booths, it is just how it must have been when my parents ate there 30 years ago. The menu is basic and cheap with great selections. I usually get the prime rib for around $14. I've had better, but not for $14 or anywhere near. Several other choice items on the menu, lot's of great seafood and a fabulous variety of "comfort food", like meatloaf, turkey dinner, (to die for) as wells as good appetizers and desserts. You can't go wrong with the Mermaid in Hermosa! There is a full bar too.
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CitySearch:
It's the "Regal Beagle"
Posted by redmosquito on 06/16/2002

This place has a total "Regal Beagle" (from Three's Compnany) type atmosphere. It's a really fun bar to hang out with friends. You'll mostly find a lot of the locals hanging out there.