The Ultimate Guide To Mermaid Oyster Bar Times Square: 5 Reasons It's NYC's Best Pre-Theater Seafood Spot

Stepping into the Mermaid Oyster Bar Times Square is like finding a coastal oasis of fresh seafood and casual-chic charm right in the heart of New York City's most electric, yet chaotic, neighborhood. As of late 2024, this Midtown Manhattan outpost of the renowned Mermaid Inn family has firmly established itself as the premier destination for diners seeking a high-quality meal—especially those on a tight schedule before a Broadway show.

The Times Square location, situated at 127 West 43rd Street, successfully transplants the beloved brand's relaxed, Cape Cod-inspired aesthetic into a bustling commercial district. It brings a much-needed dose of authentic, unpretentious seafood dining to the area, moving far beyond the typical tourist traps and providing an excellent option for both theater-goers and local New Yorkers alike. The combination of its famous raw bar, signature dishes, and one of the city's most generous Happy Hours makes it a crucial addition to the Midtown dining scene.

The Founders and The Mermaid Hospitality Legacy

The success of the Mermaid Oyster Bar Times Square is built upon the foundation of a long-standing, respected New York dining institution: The Mermaid Inn. Understanding the history of the group, known as Mermaid Hospitality, provides context for the quality and consistency found in the Times Square location.

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The Mermaid Inn concept was first introduced to Manhattan’s East Village in 2003 by its visionary founders, Danny Abrams and Cindy Smith.

• Danny Abrams & Cindy Smith: As the original owners, Abrams and Smith created a casually sophisticated seafood restaurant that quickly garnered a loyal following. Their philosophy centered on fresh, high-quality seafood served in a relaxed, urban-fish-shack atmosphere.
• Mermaid Hospitality: This is the umbrella group that oversees the various Mermaid Inn and Mermaid Oyster Bar locations across New York City, which also include outposts in Greenwich Village and the Upper West Side.
• The Times Square Partnership: The expansive new Times Square location, a significant addition to the group, was opened in partnership with restaurateur Jeffrey Bank, the CEO of the Alicart Restaurant Group. This collaboration ensured the new venue could handle the high volume and unique demands of the Broadway district while maintaining the signature Mermaid quality.

This commitment to quality, combined with the strategic partnership, ensures that the Mermaid Oyster Bar Midtown offers the same beloved coastal dishes that fans have enjoyed for two decades, now conveniently located near the Theater District.

The Iconic Happy Hour: Your Daily Dollar Oyster Destination

For many New Yorkers, the phrase "Mermaid Oyster Bar" is synonymous with one thing: the legendary Happy Hour. This daily special is arguably the best deal in Midtown Manhattan and a major draw for both locals and tourists looking to indulge without breaking the bank.

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The Times Square location proudly continues this tradition, offering an impressive array of discounted raw bar and small plate items every single day.

Happy Hour Details:

• When: Daily from 3:30 PM to 5:30 PM.
• The Main Event: The Chef's Choice Oyster is offered at a drastically reduced price, typically $1.50 to $2.00 per oyster, with a minimum order of six. This is a rare find for top-tier raw bar quality in this part of the city.
• Other Happy Hour Bites (LSI Keywords): The menu extends beyond oysters to include other affordable small plates, perfect for a light afternoon snack or pre-dinner appetizer.
  • Chef's Choice Clam: Available for $1.50 each.
  • Mini Mermaid Fish Taco: A fan-favorite small plate for only $4.00.
  • New England Clam Chowder: A warm, rich starter available for $4.00.
  • Spinach & Artichoke Dip: An excellent non-seafood option for $9.00.
• Drink Specials: While the food specials are the main attraction, the Happy Hour also features discounted beer, wine, and a selection of the bar's beautifully crafted cocktails.

This early evening window of value makes the Mermaid Oyster Bar an essential stop for anyone visiting the Theater District, allowing for a delicious, sophisticated experience before the curtain rises.

Must-Try Dishes: Beyond the Raw Bar

While the raw bar is the star, the full menu at the Mermaid Oyster Bar Times Square is a testament to the restaurant’s mastery of American seafood brasserie classics. The kitchen consistently delivers on quality, using fresh ingredients to elevate simple, coastal-inspired fare.

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The menu is designed to cater to every craving, from light appetizers to hearty main courses, making it ideal for both quick pre-show dining and a leisurely dinner.

The Signature Seafood Classics:

• The "Nearly Famous" Lobster Roll: This is arguably the restaurant's most famous dish—a cold, mayonnaise-based lobster salad served on a toasted, buttered bun. It has achieved legendary status among NYC foodies and is a non-negotiable item for first-time visitors.
• Mermaid Fish Tacos: The full-sized version of the popular Happy Hour item, featuring fresh, perfectly seasoned fish and crisp toppings.
• Seared Tuna Carpaccio: A sophisticated small plate that often features seasonal citrus, such as cara cara orange, offering a light and refreshing start to the meal.
• Fried Calamari: A classic appetizer, always served crispy and tender, perfect for sharing.
• New England Clam Chowder: Described as rich in taste and generous in size, this is a perennial favorite and a perfect embodiment of the restaurant’s commitment to classic American seafood.

For those looking for a truly indulgent experience, the Raw Bar offers a grand seafood platter featuring a dozen Today's Oysters, Littleneck Clams, Chilled Jumbo Shrimp, and often a whole lobster, providing a spectacular centerpiece for any celebration.

The Times Square Vibe: Casual-Chic Coastal Escape

The location at 127 West 43rd Street successfully differentiates itself from the neon-drenched chaos outside by offering a soothing, relaxed atmosphere. The interior design of the Mermaid Oyster Bar Times Square is a key part of the dining experience, providing a much-needed coastal retreat in Midtown.

The aesthetic is best described as casual-chic American seafood brasserie with a distinct Cape Cod vibe. The design elements work together to create an environment that feels breezy and nautical without being kitschy:

• Decor and Ambiance: The space features clean, maritime decor, utilizing light wood and white tiles to create a bright, airy feel. The color palette is often composed of blues, whites, and natural wood tones, transporting patrons away from the city streets.
• Dining Experience: The atmosphere is lively but not overwhelming. It is known for its friendly service and is highly recommended for its ability to deliver delicious meals and excellent service efficiently, making it a perfect pre-Broadway show dining choice.

Whether you're grabbing a quick glass of wine and a half-dozen oysters at the bar or settling in for a full dinner before a performance, the Mermaid Oyster Bar provides an impressive, high-quality experience that stands out in the Theater District.

Times Square Dining Strategy: How to Maximize Your Visit

Dining in the Theater District requires strategy, and the Mermaid Oyster Bar is perfectly positioned to be the anchor of your evening. Its hours and location make it an ideal choice for both lunch and dinner, particularly if you have a show to catch.

If you are planning a pre-theater dinner, consider the following tips:

1. Reservations are Essential: Given its popularity and proximity to Broadway, securing a reservation is highly recommended, especially between 5:30 PM and 7:30 PM.
2. Hit the Happy Hour: Plan to arrive between 3:30 PM and 5:30 PM. You can enjoy the $2 oysters and Mini Fish Tacos for a fraction of the cost, leaving you satisfied before your show without having to rush a full three-course meal.
3. Focus on Freshness: The restaurant prides itself on its fresh seafood. Don't overlook the rotating selection of Today's Oysters from various regions, such as Chunu (Eastern Shore, VA), which offer unique flavor profiles like a slight brine and sweet, earthy finish.

The Mermaid Oyster Bar Times Square is more than just an oyster bar; it is a reliable, high-quality, and strategically located seafood destination. It successfully combines the casual charm of its sister locations with the energy and demands of Midtown, making it a true gem for anyone seeking the best seafood experience near Broadway.