Thursday, August 10, 2023
Virginia Beach, VA – The café at the Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center has reopened as Mermaid Bay Café thanks to a new partnership with Gourmet Gang. Formerly Osprey Café, Mermaid Bay Café provides quick service with a variety of freshly made menu items
from salads and sandwiches to pizzas and pretzels as well as rotating specials and sweet treats.
The partnership creates convenience for Aquarium guests by preparing delicious grab-and-go and quick-service options to enjoy before or after touring the exhibit spaces in the Aquarium.
“With so much to see at the Aquarium, we are focused on providing quick, convenient menu choices for guests,” said Keith Bogan of Gourmet Gang. “Beyond our regular menu options, we will have rotating specials to include sweet potato biscuit with smoked brisket, and sustainably sourced fish and crab cake sandwiches.”
Gourmet Gang, a locally owned and operated business, has also become the Aquarium’s new preferred vendor for private and public events – from children’s birthday parties to galas, weddings, and the Aquarium’s after-hours events.
“As a well-known local business, Gourmet Gang brings dining expertise, high-quality catering, and an added amenity for our guests. We are impressed by their vast 27 years of experience and are excited to see how Mermaid Bay Café will become an extension of our offerings and enhance the guest experience at the Virginia Aquarium,” said Cynthia Whitbred-Spanoulis, the Aquarium’s Chief Executive Officer.
Mermaid Bay Café is open daily with summer hours from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Guests visiting the Café may purchase items using credit or debit cards; the only accepted form of payment. Additionally, Virginia Aquarium Members can enjoy 10 percent off at Mermaid Bay Café.
This fall, beer and wine will be available for purchase at Mermaid Bay Café. Food and drinks are not permitted into the exhibit spaces of the Aquarium but can be enjoyed in the café, outdoor seating area, and at picnic tables along the nature trail.
Visit the dining page of the Virginia Aquarium’s website for details.
Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center
The Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center is an accredited member of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums, and the Alliance of Marine Mammal Parks and Aquariums. The Aquarium is also a member of World Association of Zoos and Aquariums. The Virginia Aquarium's mission is to inspire conservation of the marine environment through education, research, and sustainable practices. It is located at 717 General Booth Boulevard, just south of Rudee Inlet in Virginia Beach.
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