VIBE

A fish house favorite of Village locals and oyster obsessers, the charming, polished Mermaid goes for an unabashedly maritime New England theme (complete with a collection of hanging nautical maps, charts, and photographs in its front room). As for the short, single-page menu, seafood classics dominate (think fried scallops, grilled whole fish, and a drool-worthy lobster sandwich), making this an easy choice for a seaside dinner (without the sea). In warmer weather, the garden in back draws schmoozers taking full advantage of the well-selected and modestly priced wine list.

CROWD

Friends out for a fun yet classy dinner, couples seeking a relaxing, intimate date, and a handful of after-hours business types.

WHAT WE WOULD WEAR

Stylishly casual; try a sophisticated top, slacks, and comfortable flats.

GO HERE WITH

Groups - for the USD 1 East Coast oysters at Happy Hour; significant other or date - for the romantic coziness

WHY WE LIKE IT

Its pure New England charm is a bright spot in the surrounding industrial cityscape. We also like how the menu is short and sweet, the wines delectable, and the prices more affordable than we’d expect.

WHAT WE WOULD CHANGE

There aren’t many tables, so you might find yourself starting out at the bar.

GOOD TO KNOW

If the East Village or Greenwich Village locations is a bit of a trek, an Upper West Side location has recently opened for business.

OTHER LOCATIONS

Upper West Side (New York); Mermaid Oyster Bar, Greenwich Village (New York)

CLOSEST COMPS

Pearl Oyster Bar (New York); Mary’s Fish Camp (New York)

Click here for our full-form mobile travel guide, The Purple Passport to New York City.