The Mermaid Restaurant is on Fish Street (where else?!) in the heart of St Ives' old Downalong quarter. This family-run restaurant has been a locals' favourite for years, thanks as much to its friendly atmosphere as its perfectly cooked fish.
Go for comfort food like their pot of seafood, or try the monkfish cooked on skewers. There's always a fresh fish of the day on the menu, as well as meat-based and veggie options. During lockdown, The Mermaid's takeaway paella became a regular treat for many St Ives households.
The cosy, fish-cellar feel contrasts with the minimal contemporary looks of most Cornish seafood restaurants, and that's part of its appeal. It's warm and welcoming, decorated with fantastic local details like vintage photos and fishing nets, while diners sit on pews from old St Ives churches.
