Greek cuisine is making a comeback in a big way. Visit The Fat Mermaid in Bedfordview for traditional meze, dips, yiros and desserts. Afterwards, you can take a dip in their sparkling pool or enjoy a cocktail at the tiki bar. It's a Greek island beach vibe with a family-friendly atmosphere, perfect for the summer holidays!
Bedfordview is fast becoming the go-to suburb for good Greek food in the city. With a number of restaurants featuring traditional Greek meze and desserts on their menus, it seems as though this spot and mezzo platters style of dining is gaining popularity. Or, perhaps it has always been a part of the Bedfordview food ethos. We are simply starting to take notice because it's too good not to.
The Fat Mermaid is a hidden Greek gem tucked away down a side street in Bedfordview. Quaintly called The Fat Mermaid, this restaurant and party venue is the ideal spot for summer meals, drinks and a good time. Complete with a shining swimming pool, shaded outdoor seating and a 'shot bar', The Fat Mermaid is a suburban Greek paradise if ever there was one.
A taste of Greece in Johannesburg
The décor consists of shades of deep blue and stark white, reminiscent of the villas perched upon Greek island mountainsides. You are welcome to take a dip in the pool, for a charge, please contact the restaurant ahead of time. Or, lounge in the sunshine on one of their recliners. Either way, it's the nearest thing to a Greek beach vacation without need for a passport. There is also plenty of seating underneath the shaded lapa which overlooks the pool. The venue isn't all that spacious, but there is enough room between the tables to be able to hold a good, long conversation. After all, that's what good Greek meals are about, besides the food of course.
Speaking of food, The Fat Mermaid has a generous menu, featuring meze, gourmet sandwiches, pastas and yiros. Their drinks menu is just as inviting, with both hot and cold options. Their giant cocktails come highly recommended. Not sure what to order? Try their Chicken Yiro with tangy tzatziki and doughy pita bread.
The Perfect Ending To Your Meal
We hear that their waffles are absolutely scrumptious. More particularly, their Nutella, Strawberry and Oreo Crumble Waffle is a winner! You may find yourself waiting a while for your food to reach the table, but you hardly notice the wait on accordance of the serene setting and chilled drinks and cocktails. It's hard to go wrong with buttery waffles, fresh strawberries, Oreo crumble and chocolate sauce.
On your way out, you may spot a table laden with Greek biscuits and sweets. There is also a fridge filled with pre-made Greek snacks and meals, including falafels and keftedakia. Great for lunchboxes or as finger food at parties, your guests will never know that you didn't make them from scratch, so pick up a few.
Function Venue
Furthermore, did you know that The Fat Mermaid offered a venue hire service? There are two function rooms available, including the outdoor Mermaid Lounge and Bar, which seats up to 45 people. Whether you’re planning your Valentine’s Day, Christmas party, year end function, bridal or baby shower they have the perfect venue for you with a pool function area that can seat up to 120 people and The Fat Mermaid offers catering options too, to make the party planning a tad less stressful. It is recommended that you contact the establishment for any queries.
Staycation at Spilia’ Luxury Accommodations
If you are planning on a long weekend 'staycation', this is the perfect place to visit for a feeling of international escape. Spilla's accommodation is home to exquisite rooms, elegantly decorated and perfect for a weekend away. The accommodation will leave you feeling as if you're in Santorini and not Bedfordview! Their uniquely decorated rooms resembles the streets of a white-washed Greek village. With access to the pool and a cocktail in one hand, you're in for a good time! Choose between their luxury or self catering rooms and enjoy a peaceful nights’ sleep, before heading to The Fat Mermaid for a hearty breakfast! Book your accommodation here.
For More Information
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Details: 4 Jasmine Road, Bedfordview, Johannesburg | 011 450 0053
If you enjoyed reading this article then find out where to enjoy French dining in the city here.
Waffle Image photo credits: Micaela Pretorius.
