Mermaid Kitchen — Restaurant in Madison

I have since returned - and needed to come back again. I had lunch; it was very delicious and tasty, made with fresh ingredients. It made my stomache very happy. I had to go back for more the following week. (I think there has been a change of owners.)

Charging $2.75 for a 12 oz. cup of iced coffee, fair trade or not, is a bit steep - considering that most of it is ice - however, the clincher was when the owner, or was it the manager - not sure, held the door open for me for only a split second when I had my hands full and was going to sit outside and then allowed the door to slam on my back, thus spilling my coffee. No apology, no nothing. The baristas were friendly and did their job well. I felt bad for them working in such a hot kitchen. The coffee's good. Customer service from management level is lacking. Oh yeah, and their punch card is 1 punch per "purchase," not per drink....

The best food, coffee, teas, atmosphere, staff -- this place is a treasure, a real find. All home made soups and sandwiches, all home made bakery -- much of it made in house and, what's not is carefully chosen from the best bakeries in town. Sit by the window and watch the world go by, read, catch up with old friends. This is a place you can take your grandmother, your kids or your new sweetie -- it's perfect for everyone. Tired of that chain, chrome, coffee shop feeling? The Free Trade, gentle-on-the-earth Mermaid is your slice...

So pleased to say that this wonderful neighborhood cafe has expanded, now featuring a small dining/sitting area.

They take great pride in their espresso, and it shows. The soups are excellent, as are the breakfast and lunch sandwiches. Good vegetarian options, and eggs are...