This is a tribute page to original The Mermaid Restaurant of Hermosa Beach, California. Owned by Boots Thelen and his family from 1954 - 2013. R.I.P.
Feel free to post your old photos and memories.
Old-school dark dive bar and restaurant on the beach with lots of Budweiser, bourbon, and martinis. Practically unchanged since 1954 when former owner Boots Thelen bought the place (he passed away several years ago). The waitresses have been there forever, as have most of the regulars. The food is excellent, and includes everything from prime rib, pork chops, and filet mignon, to fresh fish, burgers and sandwiches. The breakfast menu is perhaps the best; go with the hamburger steak and eggs. Attire is casual: flip-flops and worn-out surf tees are the norm, and plenty of folks simply roll in off the beach in bikinis and board shorts. Clientele is largely locals in the winter months, but plenty of surfers, beach-goers, and tourists show up on the summer weekends and holidays. A tabletop Ms. PacMan can be found tucked away in a side room. Padded railings help soften your fall if you pass out from the bartender’s unbelievably strong drinks. Just be sure to check the attitude at the door and enjoy yourself!
