Welcome to The Mermaid Bar at the Isle of Wight Distillery
The Mermaid Bar at the Isle of Wight Distillery is a captivating destination nestled in Ryde, offering a unique blend of exquisite spirits and delightful cuisine. Known for its welcoming atmosphere and stunning countryside views, the bar serves an impressive selection of gin and rum, expertly crafted into cocktails and flights. Guests rave about the attentive staff and their ability to accommodate special requests, ensuring a personalized experience. With a vibrant menu featuring both bar bites and larger plates, diners can savor the flavors of the Isle while enjoying a cozy ambiance. Perfect for relaxing afternoons or lively evenings, it's a must-visit for food and drink enthusiasts alike.
The Mermaid Bar at the Isle of Wight Distillery: Reviews & Ratings
We were lucky enough to be given a cocktail experience, what an amazing gift. We had our experience with Emily. She was great. The drinks were ace including our own made ones. We would highly recommend it and we be going back again and again. Sarah and Alan
Wonderful place to experience what gin and rum Mermaid have concocted! Out table of 6 had a wonderful lunch here and several of the gin/rum flights as well as many many cocktails. All of which was magnificent!
Great menu! We didn’t eat here but they had a great bar menu and food menu. Bar menu had lots of options for cocktails and mocktails. Pub is generally big, lots of parking with an outdoor terrace which overlooks the countryside. Lovely shop with great ambience. Staff are always welcoming and happy to make you a drink off menu if they can!
We visited on a quiet evening in January so the restaurant was very quiet. Four of us had reserved a table using a local discount voucher. Service was excellent, friendly and attentive staff. Food (fish and chips) was very good. Large portion, hot and well presented with a mint mushy pea puree and small salad. We would certainly recommend eating here and would go back. We spotted an outside terrace which looked like a great option for evening drinks in the warmer months.
What an amazing place to get to see where Mermaid Gin is actually distilled! As regulars to the IOW and the pub, in it's previous form being where my husband (as a child) stopped at for lunch after the ferry and en route to their campsite... It already held memories. So we popped in on our way home to pick up a bottle of gin... It was early so we were the only ones there. Immediately, we were greeted by a charming man who directed us to the shop and up popped Ebony from behind the counter. Full of smiles and simply a joy to talk to... So lovely! Came for a bottle of gin and ended up buying rum, salt vodka, a sea towel, bar slade, tote bag and a bar runner! Didn't get the chance to eat but the stunning interior and menu made me feel sad that we had a ferry to catch... Plus, we could have chatted with Ebony for ages given the chance! The bottles are now in, what used to be my utility but has somehow become, Gary's bar! Will definitely return to see Ebony and enjoy the sofa's, cushions and food! Thank you xx
We had the tasting gin, vodka and rum board. We were surprised by our findings. Definitely worth 10 each. Great service and clean toilets. We sat on the raised terrace but they also had space inside.
I really enjoyed a fish & chips at the Mermaid Bar.. probably the best Fish & Chips I've had, and some tasty Gin & Tonic's to wash it down... perfect! (a Mixology Class was happening near us which interesting, and will definitely have to try this / visit again soon!)
Called in to try one of their “tasting paddles”. Really excellent and enthusiastically supported by knowledgeable staff. Went on to have lunch which was very good and then had cocktails before catching the bus back to St Helen’s. A great lunchtime/afternoon out. We sat outside in the sunshine late September. Excellent !
Location
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Pondwell Hill, Ryde PO33 1PX, United Kingdom Hotline: +44 1983 613653
Welcome to The Mermaid Bar at the Isle of Wight Distillery, a culinary gem nestled in the picturesque surroundings of Pondwell Hill, Ryde. This establishment isn’t just a bar; it’s an experience, inviting visitors to indulge in the finest concoctions crafted from their exquisite line of spirits, including the well-renowned Mermaid Gin and rum.
Your journey begins with the ambience. As you step inside, you’ll be greeted by a charming atmosphere filled with the rich scents of distilling herbs and botanicals. The stylish décor suggests a blend of coastal charm and modern elegance, making it a perfect spot for both a casual get-together or a special occasion. Customer reviews highlight the welcoming nature of the staff, often going above and beyond to craft cocktails tailored to individual preferences—even off the menu!
The Mermaid Bar places a strong emphasis on its drink offerings, which feature a captivating range of cocktails and mocktails. Guests like Simon Toms have praised their unique gin and rum flights, an absolute must-try that showcases the distillery’s creativity. Meanwhile, Alan Peelo shared his enthusiasm for the interactive cocktail experience led by the knowledgeable staff, particularly Emily, who made the visit memorable with her expertise.
But it's not just about the drinks—dining at The Mermaid Bar offers a delightful range of options. According to CRUISE WITH KAZ AND NIGE, the food is not to be missed, with standout dishes such as their well-presented fish and chips accompanied by mint mushy pea puree. The bar menu also impresses with various options that cater to every palate, perfect for pairing with those specially-crafted cocktails.
Outside, a spacious terrace beckons as a splendid place to sip your drink while soaking in the breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside, especially as the warmer months approach. This outdoor setting promises a vibrant atmosphere, ideal for evenings spent with friends or family.
In addition to its culinary offerings, The Mermaid Bar houses a boutique shop where visitors can purchase their signature spirits to take a piece of the Isle of Wight home. L O’Gorman also noted the bar's charming ambiance, making it a delightful stop for anyone exploring the area.
If you’re looking for a place that combines exceptional drinks, hearty food, and an inviting atmosphere, The Mermaid Bar at the Isle of Wight Distillery should be at the top of your list. Whether you're a local or just passing through, it promises a multi-sensory experience that delights from the first sip to the final bite.