Mermaid Cafe — Restaurant in Toronto

If you're planning a visit to Hanlan's, I recommend you bring your own food and drinks, as this place is depressing and whoever manages it doesn't spend any effort to make it more appealing. It's like travelling back in time to 1960s small-town Canada, with limited and overpriced options served from an ugly concrete structure that doesn't look like it's been cleaned or refreshed in 40 years. Just like the menu. How about some fresh juices, salads, gelato or something that reflects nature? Rather than potato chips, slushies and burgers? Or why doesn't the city encourage some smaller cart or food-truck like places to dot the island, with things like gelatos, smoothies or other items, so that this isn't the one and only option? These little places can actually be cute and visually appealing, as I have seen at places like London's South Bank walk. The cafe at Hanlan's has a patio in a nice treed setting that could be appealing with some decking, nice tables and table service, but in its current state it's sad and depressing, always piled with plastic cups that previous customers have left behind and are apparently never taken away. Food-drink options are from a 1960s time warp with "Slushies" and expensive $6 popsicles (the only things I ever get here if it's really hot and I need something icy). Otherwise I pack my own food and drinks. They set up a cheap looking card table where a cook spends the day flipping burgers and hot dogs on a barbecue. Doesn't look appealing, so have never tried. Servers at least are usually friendly, when they aren't busy chatting and joking with each other rather than serving customers. This could explain why long lines can form at peak hours and seem to move incredibly slowly. If you've been to Central Park in New York or almost any park in European or UK cities, where you can actually get sophisticated food and drink options, you'll know what a lost opportunity this is. I guess it's better than nothing, but that's not saying much. The islands are among Toronto's gems as an escape from the city noise and crowds, but most food outlets are in dire need of an update. It's a shame but with only one place to get anything near Hanlan's beach, I guess the owner/managers think they don't need to bother. Where else are you...

If you want a cold drink, make sure you ask if it’s cold. I came on a very hot day and asked for lemonade expecting it be cold. Nope. Instead, I got a bottle that was room temp. Also got a beef patty for $4.50. Not worth it. There were two women working when I went. One was nice, the other with black hair, not so much. Outside of their tiny shop they had a hot dog station that was not staffed. Some people thought it was self service so when 1 of the staff saw them reaching for a hot dog, she yelled at them. I would suggest putting up a sign to let others know to ask for help. If you didn’t bring anything to eat or drink to the beach, you don’t have much choice but to be a patron...

Not the best name. It's more of a mini bar and Burger joint. The location is great if you're just looking for a place to chill in peace, but don’t expect much more. There’s no real view of the city skyline, and the lake view is pretty limited too. Be prepared for lots of bugs and frequent airplane noise overhead, which can be a bit annoying.

Definitely not a top pick for a first date nothing about the place feels particularly fresh or special. They close early, which is a downside, but there is a 24/7 pop machine on site, and honestly, that might be the best feature here.

Overall, it’s okay for a low-key hangout, but don't expect anything impressive. Food is under $20 so...