The Mermaid Cafe Ikan Bakar

We come to Penang frequently but this was the first time we have been to The Mermaid Cafe. Wish we had known about it on previous trips not only because it is close to the hotel where we always stay but because it was such a wonderful experience. The owners have done a really great job of converting two small terrace shop houses into a modern comfortable space over two floors which highlights its heritage aspects but also makes it something new and bold. But most importantly the food was very good. Tasty and well presented. The service staff and owner were friendly and efficient. This is a new style for Penang and we highly recommend you check it out. We wish the owners luck in a very competitive environment and in these tricky economic times.

Very delicious grilled stingray. 2 types of sauce, first is the sambal dry prawn and second is the sambal onion dip. Both sauces also excellent. The ikan Bakar so nicely done, every inch of skin well covered and the fresh just nice. Big portion of stingray cost RM49 and it's sufficient for 2 pax. The fruity jelly dessert with many tiny slices of fruit, peppermint and jelly is beautifully done and so cooling even though no ice indeed. It is delicious but I feel too pricey RM15 seeing such a tiny bowl. The deco inside is impressive. I liked the overlap plates that make the shape of mermaid tail.

Get the signature #stingray dish! Delicious sambal on top of the fish. Menu has great selection of fish but can be limited if ran out. Service needs to be more knowledgeable.

Came here for my birthday dinner, was not disappointed with my first try! Food was really delicious, sambal was awesome! One thing about ikan bakar is that if the fish is not fresh, no matter how nice the sambal is, you wouldn't be able to enjoy the food. But fish was splendidly fresh! No worries at all. Only to improve on the waiting time.. Although the time waiting for our meal was kinda long, but it was worth the wait! Maybe before coming here, you should call up and order your food first before coming, that way you don't have to wait for so long. Staffs was very friendly, and they even surprised me with a birthday cake! Was super touched! Made my day! Thank you! Will return for sure!

Best ikan bakar. price is reasonable. service is excellent. good photos too.