A Cozy Tropical Cocktail Bar Makes a Little Tokyo Splash Soon

Second Street drinkers near Alameda in Little Tokyo can soon find The Mermaid, a forthcoming tropical-themed cocktail bar by Katie Kildow and Arelene Roldan. This duo is responsible for introducing Los Angeles to the Lemon Poppy Kitchen, Steampunk Coffee Bar and Kitchen, and the shuttered Bar One Tap Room, and now they’re turning their focus towards the nautical side.

Kildow and Roldan made improvements to the former Bar C space and did a deep dive on an underwater theme, though classic touches like dark woods and leather booths remain. And to go with the overall oceanic vibe, the pair developed some throwback tiki-leaning cocktails. There’s the Mermaiden Voyage with two types of rum, a house made lime cordial, and hibiscus syrup with coconut salt rim; boozy snow cones come with tequila watermelon, vodka cherry limeade, or with rum, pineapple, and coconut.

If bites are needed while cocktailing, small dishes like the Hawaiian rolls filled with slow-braised brisket and pulled pork, a hearts of palm ceviche, or the housemade nori guacamole and chips should do the trick. The Mermaid’s late-night finger foods menu is just as easy and savory, with queso, flavored popcorn, and hot dogs.

It’s is a bit off the main path, but walk into Little Tokyo’s Honda Plaza to find The Mermaid next month. Once open, hours are from 5 p.m. to 2 a.m. daily.

The Mermaid. 428 E. 2nd Street, Los Angeles, CA

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