
The NYT Mini Crossword returns once again with a brand-new set of clues to challenge solvers. This daily brain teaser delivers a fast yet engaging experience for word enthusiasts of all levels. With just a handful of clues, it brings the thrill of classic crossword solving in a bite-sized format. The goal is simple—decode the clues, race against the clock, and feel that rewarding sense of accomplishment.
Every single day, speed, vocabulary, and quick thinking get tested in The Mini. Some clues will come very easy, but others can bring down even the fastest among solvers. An exciting new roster is waiting for players to become ticketed to on March 26, 2025, by which point anyone stopped may refer to all possible answers.
A fresh set of words awaits in today's crossword, covering a mix of pop culture, everyday terms, and a little geography. Some clues are straightforward, while others demand extra thought.
1A: Drinker's account
Answer: TAB
A bar or restaurant "tab" is a running bill that an alcoholic beverage consumer usually pays at the end of that night.
4A: Not online, per modern shorthand
Answer: IRL
In Real Life, short for "IRL," is a way to describe things that are offline rather than in digital reality.
5A: Home of the Pont Neuf ("New Bridge"), which is over 400 years old
Answer: PARIS
Home of the Pont-Neuf ("New Bridge"); the new term is being used rather ironically, for it has been in use for over 400 years.
7A: Soup component
Answer: BROTH
A broth is more or less an essence or the liquid part used for making a soup, and this is otherwise prepared from the simmering of meat, bones, or even vegetables.
8A: Bright and lively, as music
Answer: JAZZY
Jazzy means lively, with an upbeat, rhythmic quality, sometimes associated with jazz music.
1D: Bejeweled accessory
Answer: TIARA
A tiara is a decorative headpiece worn by the royalty or often at special occasions.
2D: Rice, in Spanish
Answer: ARROZ
Arroz is Spanish for rice and an alternative staple in various cuisines.
3D: What's the rush?
Answer: BLITZ
Blitz means a sudden, intensive effort or an attack that can be used in sporting or strategic situations.
5D: Three-letter sandwich, informally
Answer: PBJ
Peanut butter and jelly, PBJ for short, is a classic American-instead-of-most-favourite-in-the-world-for-simplicity sandwich.
6D: Like wallflowers
Answer: SHY
Shy is that someone who tends to be reserved or quiet, as are wallflowers.
The NYT Mini is not just about finding answers—it’s about the challenge. Some clues feel like second nature, while others demand careful thought. One tricky entry today was 4-Across. The first guess for “not online” might have been AFK, meaning “away from keyboard,” but The Mini had something else in mind. The correct answer, IRL (short for “in real life”), reflects modern internet lingo.
For those who enjoy a mental workout beyond crosswords, The New York Times offers other daily games (NYT Games), including Wordle, Connections, and Strands. These puzzles provide a variety of ways to stay engaged and test problem-solving skills.
Every day, The Mini presents a fresh challenge. Whether the goal is improving solve times or simply enjoying a quick mental break, this puzzle remains a staple for many. March 26, 2025, delivered another engaging set of clues, blending classic wordplay with contemporary references.
Tomorrow brings another new challenge, another chance to solve, and another moment of satisfaction. Keep the streak going, stay sharp, and get ready for the next round of brain-teasing fun! Make it a habit, challenge a friend, and keep the streak going—The Mini awaits with fresh clues every day!