Marcel Mergen, a fish sommelier and co-owner of the renowned fish store and restaurant ‘Poseidon’ in Munich, discusses the rising popularity of fish during the pandemic and the importance of quality in fish sourcing.
In an interview, Marcel Mergen, co-owner of ‘Poseidon’ in Munich, shares insights on the fish market's evolution and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on consumer behavior. The establishment has been a staple at the Viktualienmarkt for over forty years, originally starting as a fish shop and expanding into a restaurant. Mergen, who became co-owner in 2022, has a diverse background in cooking and marketing, culminating in his recent training as a fish sommelier.
Mergen highlights the growing preference for fresh fish among locals and explains the distinctions between wild-caught and farmed fish. He emphasizes that fish quality does not solely rely on the geographic proximity to the sea but rather on various factors, including sourcing practices and preservation methods. Mergen also addresses the challenges posed by the pandemic, which heightened awareness and demand for quality seafood at home.
As he prepares for the upcoming Ash Wednesday, Mergen encourages customers to be discerning in their fish choices by looking for freshness indicators. This includes not only appearance and smell but also understanding the sustainable practices behind their seafood. His insights shed light on the cultural significance of fish consumption in Bavaria, paralleling trends observed throughout Germany during the Lenten season.
