Mermaids.
Mysterious maidens appearing in the folklore of many cultures around the world. The mythological creatures from the sea have been popular in art and literature throughout the centuries. Today in Norfolk, Virginia where Smith Creek and the Elizabeth River meet in the Historic Ghent neighborhood resides an entirely different kind of mermaid – Mermaid Winery.
Virginia's First Urban Winery
Mermaid Winery is Virginia’s first Urban Winery.
As their website states, “We focus on making small lots of well-balanced wine using Virginia grapes.”
With an array of wines made primarily of grapes from the Charlottesville region of the Old Dominion, this hip winery in the charming Ghent neighborhood serves up an unusual wine tasting experience.
I arrive shortly after the lunch hour and sit at the bar. The modern décor is inviting and the cool cement bar is perfect for enjoying Mermaid’s ambiance. Although I admit the mild weather is enticing me to sit outside under an umbrella on the expansive patio, I forgo dining al fresco on my first visit. I want to meet the Mermaid staff and chat awhile.
The Mermaid Winery Story
I’m delighted to learn the story of the origins of this urban winery and how the name which is associated with beauty represents Mermaid’s vision for producing “stunning wines.”
The wine list includes Chardonnay, Cabernet Franc, East Beach Peach Wine, Elizabeth River Raspberry, and a lovely white wine blend called the Siren’s White. It’s well worth sampling a “flight” of wines for the flavor, but the presentation is equally appealing.
In addition to their own wine, Mermaid Winery boasts over 800 different wines from around the world. Their flagship urban winery is located in Norfolk's Ghent neighborhood and they have a second location in the Chix’s Beach area on Shore Drive in Virginia Beach.
Wine & Dine at Mermaid Winery
Adding to the chic winery atmosphere is the amazing food. The menu features an interesting mix of small plates of cheese, hummus, charcuterie as well as a variety of salads, sandwiches, and larger plates including lobster pie and coq au vin.
I select a delicious Greek salad drizzled with just the right amount of tangy vinaigrette dressing. It’s an amazing medley of greens and the ideal accompaniment to the flight I’ve sampled.
Finish with a flurish!
Rarely do I save room for dessert, however, if I had – the Elizabeth River Raspberry would be the obvious choice. It’s a delightful dessert wine – pairing well with ice cream and chocolate.
When one thinks of a winery the rolling hills of Napa or Tuscany come to mind. But more and more a non-traditional approach to the winery outing is taking hold in metropolitan areas. The urban winery is the city’s version of a full-fledged winery tour, tasting, and outing.
Mermaid Winery in Norfolk, Virginia, is a brilliant rendition of the newest and fashionable interpretation of the winery.
Cheers to the urban winery!
Mermaid Winery
Norfolk – 330 W. 22nd Street, #106,
Norfolk, VA
Virginia Beach – 4401 Shore Drive
Virginia Beach, VA
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3 thoughts on “Mermaids aren’t just folklore in Norfolk’s Ghent district”
Enjoyed reading about the Mermaid Winery in Norfolk, my old hometown. Very nice photos go along with it, too!
You’ve done an outstanding job with the look and feel of PullOverrandLetMeOut. It is both beautiful and interesting, and with great travel stories. I wish you great success with it, Anna.
I hope you were able to explore much of Fort Monroe. It is such an interesting place with so much history.
Take Care
Dan
Thanks so much for the kind words Dan! I thoroughly enjoyed Fort Monroe and can’t wait to write about my visit. I had no idea how historical the fort was before I arrived.
It is always such fun meeting people while I’m traveling. Thanks for sharing your knowledge of the fort with me, it added to my visit.
Best wishes to you and keep snapping pictures – your site is amazing! BayIslandPhotography.com
Anna Marie
Very nice restaurant. I lke the room with the barrels