The Mermaid Cafe at Riverview

113 Flagler Ave , New Smyrna Beach, FL

Hours

Open daily 8 a.m. - 2 p.m. / Friday & Saturday extended hours 4 p.m. - 9 p.m.

About

The Mermaid Cafe at the Riverview is a quaint seafoam-green home serving delicious breakfast and lunch fare. This delightful eatery draws from the rich tapestry of New Smyrna's surf culture and art scene.

The cafe is named after the mermaid door that, for decades, has greeted people on the North Causeway to Flagler Avenue. This family-owned eatery sprouted from their love for New Smyrna Beach and a passion for satisfying, wholesome food.

The Mermaid Cafe sources its ingredients from nearby farms, ensuring every dish is an homage to Florida's bountiful landscape. The cute setting has curb appeal and is ideal for leisurely breakfasts or lunches before or before hitting the beach or shopping on Flagler Avenue.

Convenient to top vacation attractions like Turtle Mound, Daytona International Speedway, and Ponce de Leon Inlet Lighthouse & Museum, it's easy to plan a visit with a meal at the cafe.

As visitors sip on artisanal blends or fork through locally inspired dishes, they are part of a story that continues to unfurl in New Smyrna Beach.

Vibe

Like the Florida horizon, The Mermaid Cafe is bright, captivating, and full of promise. The beachy cottage mirrors the sun-bleached sands and the crisp blues of the nearby ocean.

Once through the doors, the interior unfolds into a serene space where the outside light casts a warm glow across simple tables. It fuses the laid-back beach atmosphere with a chic café culture.

Here, the clink of coffee cups and the scent of freshly baked pastries merge with the salty ocean fragrance. The cafe balances a homey sanctuary and a vibrant social hub.

The ambiance of The Mermaid Cafe is undeniably magnetic. It's a place where couples share waffles garnished with fruits, artists jot down inspiration on napkins, and families gather to relish a meal together before hitting the beach. The environment embodies Daytona Beach living: relaxed, inspiring, and utterly enchanting.

The Mermaid Cafe at the Riverview: Menu & Drinks

Dive into a sea of flavors at The Mermaid Cafe, where waffles, beignets, and hearty fare are the norm.

A specialty waffle that gets rave reviews is the NSB Waffle! Inside the Belgian waffle is lemon curd and whipped cream, fresh raspberries, and berry drizzle come on top. It's a sweet start to any morning.

You'll be singing "Blue Suede Shoes" with one bite of The Elvis waffle. It is stuffed with sliced bananas, drizzled with Nutella and peanut butter, and topped with whipped cream and powdered sugar.

If sweet beginnings are not for you, try the Breakfast Bowl. This hearty meal has hashbrowns topped with cheddar cheese, two eggs any style, a choice of meat, and smothered in house-made sausage gravy. It's a guaranteed stick-to-your-ribs entree, perfect for an active day at Daytona Boardwalk Amusements.

When it's time for lunch, the options range from waffles (of course!) to beignets, salads, and sandwiches. A top pick lunch handheld is the Flagler Chicken, featuring seasoned fried chicken breast with lettuce, tomato, and onion. It's drizzled with house mermaid sauce on a toasted kaiser roll and served with fries.

For a taste of the tropics, try the Island Wrap. This handheld has grilled chicken, romaine lettuce, pineapple salsa, and house dressing. Wrapped in a flour tortilla and served with fries, it's the perfect combo for the beach!

The Mermaid Cafe is essential to any visit to Daytona or New Smyrna Beach, where every dish and drink takes center stage.

Local Tips

  • Arrive early to relish the tranquil morning ambiance.
  • Check out the Dole Whip and waffle bar!
  • With a kid's menu, The Mermaid Cafe is family-friendly.
  • Complimentary parking at the Riverview property.
  • Visit mid-week to avoid the bustle of weekend crowds.

Location

113 Flagler Ave , New Smyrna Beach, FL

Frequently Asked Questions

October and January are some of the best times to visit New Smyrna Beach as the area is less crowded and the weather is better. With mild winters and great spring weather, February through April is a peak season, as well as mid-June through August with many families visiting the beach.

If you have just one day to immerse yourself in the charm of New Smyrna Beach, here’s how we suggest you make the most of it.

Kickstart your day on a flavorful note with breakfast at Toni & Joe’s. This local favorite offers a variety of delicious options, but our top recommendation would be the breakfast burrito—a delightful combination of taste and nutrition that’s sure to energize you for the exciting day ahead.

Post breakfast, take a leisurely walk along our pristine beach. With the sun warming your skin, the sand tickling your toes, and the waves serenading your senses, you’ll truly understand why our beach is a major draw for visitors from around the world.
When lunchtime beckons, head over to Breakers, an oceanfront eatery renowned for serving the best burger in central Florida. As you savor the juicy, mouth-watering flavors, let the stunning views of the ocean elevate your dining experience to new heights.

Post lunch, it’s time to explore the vibrant shops of Flagler Avenue. Lose yourself in the eclectic mix of boutiques, art galleries, and specialty stores, each offering a unique blend of local charm and trendy merchandise.

And as the day winds down, make your way to Outriggers for dinner and drinks. Perched right on the water, this popular spot boasts incredible views that perfectly complement their scrumptious menu. Whether you’re a seafood lover or a cocktail enthusiast, you’re sure to find something that tantalizes your taste buds.

So, ready to embark on this one-day adventure in New Smyrna Beach? Remember, this is just a glimpse of what our beautiful region has to offer. We invite you to extend your stay and uncover the many treasures that await you here.

New Smyrna Beach, often hailed as one of Florida’s best-kept secrets, is a treasure trove of attractions and points of interest. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast, history buff, or foodie, there’s something here for everyone.

Here are the top 5 attractions we recommend when visiting New Smyrna Beach:

  • New Smyrna Town Beach: The crown jewel of our city, the beach offers miles of white sand and pristine waters, perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and surfing. Its laid-back vibe makes it an ideal spot to unwind and soak up the Florida sun.
  • Boating down the Intercoastal Waterway: Experience the natural beauty of New Smyrna Beach from a different perspective. Rent a boat or join a tour to explore the serene waterways, where you might spot dolphins, manatees, and a variety of bird species. It’s a picture-perfect way to spend an afternoon.
  • Lighthouse in Port Orange: Just a short drive from New Smyrna Beach, the Ponce de Leon Inlet Lighthouse & Museum is a must-visit. Climb the 203 steps to the top for panoramic views of the surrounding area, and learn about the region’s maritime history at the museum.
  • Marine Discovery Center: For a hands-on learning experience about local marine life, head to the Marine Discovery Center. Their interactive exhibits and guided eco-tours provide fascinating insights into the area’s diverse ecosystems and the creatures that inhabit them.
  • Smyrna Dunes Park: This park is a favorite among locals and visitors alike. With over 73 acres of land, it offers a variety of recreational activities – from hiking and fishing to wildlife viewing. Plus, it’s one of the few parks in the area where you can bring your dogs to the beach.

New Smyrna Beach, Florida, is known for its pristine beaches, vibrant local culture, and a diverse range of outdoor activities. But one question that often comes up is: Are there a lot of sharks in New Smyrna Beach?

While it’s true that New Smyrna Beach has been dubbed the “Shark Attack Capital of the World,” it’s important to put this into context. Yes, there are sharks in the waters around New Smyrna Beach—specifically, lemon sharks and blacktip sharks are the most common species found here. However, the number of sharks is not exceptionally high compared to other coastal areas.

In 2021, there were 16 recorded shark bites in Volusia County, where New Smyrna Beach is located. While any number above zero might seem alarming, consider this: millions of people visit Volusia County’s beaches each year, and the vast majority of them swim, surf, and play in the waters without any shark encounters.

Stay alert to any warnings or announcements, and here are some shark pointers to keep in mind when hitting the Florida waves:

  • Stay in groups and don’t wander too far from shore
  • Avoid swimming at dawn or dusk or in areas with a lot of fishing
  • Limit splashing and don’t make sudden or erratic movements
  • Don’t wear shiny jewelry or enter the ocean if you have an open cut (or are bleeding at all)
  • Build sandcastles and sunbathe on land.

Remember, the goal isn’t to fear our oceanic neighbors, but to respect them and their environment. With a little awareness and precaution, you can safely enjoy all the wonderful experiences New Smyrna Beach has to offer.

Yes, we have some pet-friendly properties. Contact us so we can find the best place for your entire family.

Yes, though in specific areas. There are various entry points allowing vehicles to drive on parts of the New Smyrna Beach coastline. Vehicles are only allowed in designated areas, from sunrise to sunset (depending on tides), and there is a $30 daily fee per vehicle for non-Volusia County residents.

Given its proximity to Daytona Beach, some of the most popular events can be found there - including the Daytona 500 and Biketoberfest. Some of the traditional events visitors can enjoy in New Smyrna Beach include:

  • Annual New Smyrna Beach Food Festival (April)
  • New Smyrna Beach Shrimp & Food Festival (August)
  • New Smyrna Beach Rock & Roll Music Festival (November)
  • Party on Flagler - Twelve signature events throughout the year along the iconic Flagler Ave. in New Smyrna Beach
More questions

More questions?

Feel free to send us an email with any and all questions you might have regarding the start of a Casago Franchise!

We'd love to help answer your questions!