Blushing Mermaid The Blushing Mermaid was a famous lower - class tavern in the city of Baldur ' s Gate , located in the northeast part of the upper city on the Sword Coast . Structure . The tavern was long , low building which looked like it would collapse at any minute . It was surrounded on three sides by a tangle of stables , outbuildings , and enclosures . It was known to have at least four levels of cellars , and many more were said to exist . Stories told of hidden passages and connections to the city ' s sewer system . Interior . The lobby had a high of ceiling adorned with a crudely carved life - sized mermaid suspended over the reception desk . This nearly nude woman was adorned with more than a score of blackened and shriveled severed hands of patrons who did not pay their bills . There were rumors these hands could magically animate and aid the desk clerk in " handling " the city watch , intruders , or obnoxious guests . The tavern ' s other rooms had low ceilings and dim of lighting ; they were furnished with mismatched and much - abused furniture . All rented rooms were heavily lockable with iron or wooden bars , but patrons were still advised not to sleep too soundly , which was difficult to do as the establishment was usually noisy at all hours . Atmosphere . The Mermaid was renowned up and down the Sword Coast as a meeting place for those who wish to conduct illicit business . It was a noisy place frequently beset by brawls , and patrons either go in heavily armed groups or studiously avoid provoking other patrons . A representative of virtually any illegal group operating in Baldur ' s Gate can usually be found somewhere on the premises , and the Mermaid is the best place to engage the services of any of them . 1 sp is the usual fee to get a representative ' s attention , with an additional 1 - 5 gp ( 2 gp on average ) fee to enter serious negotiations . Independent operators usually frequent the Elfsong Tavern rather than the Mermaid . Provender . The Mermaid served a variety of drinks , including sea ale , stout , a light , golden lager from Mintarn , and several kinds of strong whiskey . No wines were available . Food came in two varieties : Food ordered from nearby establishments and food prepared on the premises . The Mermaid had arrangements with several close by eateries for the former . This food was excellent and more elaborate , but tended to be lukewarm or cold by the time it got to a diner . Food . Some of the more popular items on the menu included : Staff . The owner ( s ) of the Mermaid were unknown and never seen . The staff was unobtrusive , swift , and extremely competent . Patrons took staff members lightly at great peril . Rumors . Many stories spoke about secret passages and hidden vaults under the Mermaid , but it was well - known that illicit goods and persons could be hidden quickly and well for a fee . Rumors stated there were facilities deep underground for holding persons , both willingly and unwillingly . For additional fees one could rent shackles and associated hardware , and even specialized equipment for restraining wizard s . Appearances . In the game Baldur ' s Gate and Baldur ' s Gate : Tales of the Sword Coast , the player can visit the Blushing Mermaid in the NE section of the city . There are a number of sub - quests that take place in the tavern ' s cellar which is used as a brothel in the game .