Dinner is always amazing at the Rusty Pelican. The food is delicious and you can't beat the view. Our server, Josh, was the best! He made sure we had an amazing experience especially with a picky teenager (fries with no seasoning please). His recommendations were on point and it was a beautiful dinner with my family. Can't wait to go back and hopefully see Josh again! read more

Is it possible that a group of 70 year olds can have the best dining experience of their lives? It sure is! Forget the delicious food. Forget the gorgeous water view ambiance...we wanted to adopt Hannah! What an asset to this establishment! Kind, warm, wonderful, efficient and a very accomplished server. Thank you for a great experience! read more

It was our first time here and we would certainly come back! The maple chili cornbread was so good! I also ordered the lobster and shrimp risotto recommended by our waitress and it did not disappoint! Even with how busy they were (2 weddings, a communion, and a graduation) they were still able to accommodate our reservations in a timely manner. I think that personally it could have been a bit cleaner- there was a dirty plate on our table and the lamp & window ledge area was dusty and dirty but other than that it was a great experience and we'll return! read more

Rusty Pelican - Lobster and Shrimp Risotto - Seafood Near Me - Tampa, Florida

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The ambience, location, service, food, and drinks - literally all of it was perfect! The Rusty Pelican is located right on the water and the views are gorgeous! They have a big event space attached to the restaurant (there was a wedding while we were there) and I know exactly why - this place is beautiful! The inside is decorated and designed so nicely as well - from the entrance area with the piano and fireplace to the bar with private lounge nooks to the dining area with the huge glass windows looking out onto the water...everything was perfect! I was able to get reservations for 3 on a Saturday for 7:15pm the day of and I definitely suggest making reservations because it was busy! We got there a little early so we could grab a drink at the bar before. The bartenders were so attentive and made delicious drinks - the blue spruce was the best! The bar is located close to the piano they have, which was awesome because they had someone playing while we were there. As for dinner, everything was soooo good!! Our waiter was also extremely attentive and very friendly - he had great suggestions and really made our experience that much better. The food was amazing!! They have lots to choose from so it was hard to make a decision. The tuna tartare appetizer is delicious and definitely a must-try. As for dinner, I got the crab stuffed grouper and was SO happy. Our waiter told us that it is a favorite and I was happy that I got it! My husband got the whole snapper, which was also fantastic! It's a huge portion so you could definitely split it. I also love that you get to pick your side for your entree - I did the seasonal roasted veggies, which did not disappoint. All of their seafood was extremely fresh and flavorful! I wish we were in town longer because I would have come back for the seafood tower. We, of course, had to try some dessert since everything was so good. The creme brûlée was perfect - a classic and great thing to split. Overall, this place is a definite must-try - whether you're a local or just visiting the area. You can't beat the views, food, or service! read more

Rusty Pelican - Front area by the bar - Seafood Near Me - Tampa, Florida

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Food and service was spectacular. Our server was Carmen and she couldn't have been better!

The days of the Sunday Brunch buffet are gone. Now you have to order off the menu. The bottomless Mimosas ease the pain a bit. The Board is the way to go. When split the cost comes out to what the buffet use to cost. The food on there was so good! The waffle and the honey butter you don't need syrup. It was all good. That is the way to go. The start was good all things were seasoned well. I was very pleased. read more

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Our server Athena was fantastic! She was so nice and accommodating. The view was great and the creamed corn and 50/50 potatoes are a must!

We came here on a visit to Tampa, had no clue where to eat. We came here based on reviews and it did not disappoint. Jessica our waitress was super helpful and very lovely. She was attentive and helped us make decisions on what to try on the menu. The ambiance was also lovely as it was right on the water. The view was beautiful. The food was delicious and I have already recommended this to friends who live in the area. read more

Rusty Pelican - Front in the Lobster and Shrimp Risotto Back is the Blackened Swordfish - Seafood Near Me - Tampa, Florida

The food here was AMAZING we had Zack as our server and it was one of the best service experiences I've had in my entire 30 years of being alive! He was funny fast and personable. He made my first meal as a 30 years old women feel great. His food suggestions were on the money he's definitely a guy who knows his menu and what pairs well with what! The ambiance of the restaurant is perfect but the service is what I'll be back for. Thanks Zack! Will be requesting you again next time! read more

This restaurant is very lovely and the views are exceptional! The food, WOW I truly can't explain how yummy it is. Our server Casey was so amazing and sweet. She truly turned our experience here around. Here's what rubbed me the wrong way... We had reservations for 3:30 and the hostess Jerry called to inform that we'd have to put in our order asap because they close down for an hour to reopen for dinner. Which honestly was completely fine we just asked if they'd move our reservations over to 4:30 that way neither of us would have to rush. Hostess over the phone was very sweet she accommodated us and we were all set. However once we arrived we were met with very bad attitudes and horrible service. We requested to sit at a table closer to the water and we were told that can't happen because the restaurant is fully booked. Which was not true we were there for two hours and besides one other party there was no one else. After we were informed we can't sit next to the window we were bummed and asked our server and she said it shouldn't be an issue since at the moment we're slow. Out of nowhere this older lady comes up to us with mega attitude saying "Do you guys realize what type of clients I serve in my restaurant? We can't accommodate you any more than we already did. You're lucky you even booked a table to begin with....etc she also spoke to us In Arabic after she knew we were upset. She then told us to get up and go sit by the window in the rudest way and that she would only accommodate us this one time. So we did because after all that I think we did deserve the better table. As we're going she's still talking to us as if we're beneath her telling us her restaurant is booked and she has 900 people coming and we're causing issues?? I'm truly very appalled at her behavior. Idk her name but she has dark long hair, probably 60s. After paying almost $400 her mood changed very quickly she then started asking us if we wanted pictures. If it wasn't for her this place is just excellent. Casey was super apologetic and thanks to her we really enjoyed our time and I'm glad we stuck with the reservation. read more

Old and Frumpy We visited the Rusty Pelican a few weeks back largely based on the location and the name, which I thought was kid of cool. We were disappointed before we even got out of the car. The entire parking lot, which is pretty substantial, is reserved for valet... which was rediculous based on the size of the lot and availability of spots. The valets were not exactly professional in appearance... there was no way I was trusting them with my car. The exterior of the building is dirty and dingy. The inside is a bit better - with the exception of the banquet rooms which look like they haven't been updated or maintained since the 1970s. While you would think that the restaurant would have nice views based on its location, most tables and seats at the bar have limited - if any - views of the bay. A quick look at the menu and you'll see that the Rusty Pelican is overpriced for what you're getting. Bottom line, it may have a cool name and location but the Rusty Pelican is in desperate need of some WD-40. read more

Was recommended this restaurant while on a business trip. Ate at the bar since I was a party of one, Becca the bartender was great. She recommended the Red Snapper that came with a Risotto that was a little too sweet for me but was still tasty. The presentation was fabulous with my fish looking at me. The vodka gimlet was so good I had to have two. read more

Rusty Pelican - Vodka Gimlet - Seafood Near Me - Tampa, Florida

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I'm in town for my best friend's bachelorette party. We made a reservation for 8 at 8:30 on a Friday night. We arrived at 8:15 and they told us we need to come back when we're closer to our reservation, and we ended up not being seated until 8:40 at a table that was open right in front of us since the second we got there. The restaurant was not even crowded, so this was a bit bothersome, and the hostesses treated us as if we were a group of spring breakers. Service was extremely slow throughout the entire night, but our waitress was really sweet. We ordered salads to begin with and then everyone had their own entree, including the stuffed grouper, shrimp risotto, flatbread, salmon, and other dishes. The food did not disappoint, and somewhat made up for the poor service. They also brought out a free dessert to celebrate her bachelorette party, which was thoughtful. I would recommend Rusty Pelican strictly for the food, but be prepared for the slow service. read more

Rusty Pelican - Stuffed grouper and asparagus - Seafood Near Me - Tampa, Florida

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We were seated next to the fire place which was nice. The calamari was tasty but very chewy. The cornbread appetizer wasn't anything special. We tried to order the NY strip but they were out of it so we had to order the ribeye which was more expensive. Then wanted a side of fries with that and were told they were out of fries which was weird. When the ribeye came out it was definitely not 12 oz and was burnt and completely over cooked. The broccoli said grilled but it just seemed steamed. The lobster tail had no flavor whatsoever except maybe a slight hint of lemon. The only thing we really enjoyed was the filet. It was cooked correctly and had good flavor. The potatoes were just okay. They did comp us for the potatoes and ribeye but it was still expensive for such a bad experience. read more

We came here for lunch on a Monday in February. We didn't have a reservation but it wasn't packed at all. We got a nice round table at the waterfront. The restaurant has own parking spots but no valet. Our waitress was very nice and very friendly. I can only speak for my meal which contained a tomato based gumbo as a starter and grouper with crab meat and broccolini as my main. I ordered an additional risotto as a side. All very good but too much to eat. The interior is nice but not special. read more

Rusty Pelican - Lunch: gumbo - it was tomato based and very good! - Seafood Near Me - Tampa, Florida

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Shannon's service was great! I enjoyed the grouper.

This is an expensive restaurant for three reasons: the food, the view, the service. We didn't experience any of these. We went for bunch on Sunday Dec 19 and were seated so far from the windows that none of us had a view. There was a VERY loud party of 20 between us and the windows. I thought, ok, the food will be good. Nope. Most of us ordered eggs Benedict and all of our eggs were over cooked. The eggs are supposed to be poached with yummy runny yolks that cascade down. Nope. All the eggs were closer to hard boiled than poached. The food was also closer to cold than hot when it came out. Service wasn't good. We ordered mimosa by the bottle and she brought the juices out in glasses. So, when pouring the juice into the champagne glass, it made a huge mess. It was just so disappointment and not worth the VERY high bill. read more

Food is mediocre, location is dated, and there was a bad odor outside. I will not be going back. Food was tasteless!

Very expensive, but understandably so! Very delicious food right by the seaside. The chef has a special menu and everything is super fresh! The menu is limited due to it being an upscale restaurant, but lots of yummy options. The service is great, and everyone is really nice and welcoming. The restaurant itself is beautifully decorated, and it feels like you're on a cruise ship. I would definitely recommend this place for a fancy/special occasion! read more

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Fantastic service and amazing food!! Our waitress Carmen was on point! She was very knowledgeable regarding food and drinks. Highly recommend. read more

Why would a sane person come to this restaurant. We had a nice server. The food is the least palatable that i have had in the last 35 years of my life. Terrible entrees. Horrid desserts. Ok complimentary bread. Wine over priced. Why would anyone come here. Go anywhere else. Stay at home. Your cooking is far superior. Believe me. read more

Food was good and so was the service. Hostess not so much. We wanted to change our table and we were told no she couldn't do that. When we asked a server they were kind enough to accommodate. read more

Visited tonight for birthday celebration. Food was excellent...scallops, grouper, swordfish. We sat by the window and had a beautiful water view. The service definitely sttod out. Our server's name was Grace. She was very knowledgeable of the drinks and menu, sharing specialties and favorites. We were glad to have to expertise and advice. read more

Service was good, the place was beautiful but the food lacked flavor. Very disappointed with my ribeye dinner, steak was mediocre, broccoli was just steamed, no olive oil or garlic and the coconut flake orzo appeared to be scraped from the bottom of the pot. read more

Kat was amazing so friendly and knowledgeable. This is our third or fourth time back and we come all the way from NJ to just keep coming here J read more

This place was very fancy and beautiful right on the water. We started with the oysters, which were not cleaned very well. The rest of the food was good, but not necessarily worth that price. Also, take note that the happy hour only applies to the bar area, not dining area. read more

The reason I gave this Restaurant 2 stars is, the appetizer CrabCake was delicious, our server was excellent, desert was to die for and their customer service is top. The interior is beautiful with fireplaces, was very cozy. Now for the food, we originally went in wanting the prime rib, they told us they had no more so we opted for their special which was the tomahawk steak as our main dish - this was disappointing - it looked delicious and when we couldn't even cut through it never mind trying to chew it. We explained the Tomahawk was not what it should be and they apologized. Not sure if we would go back, but you never know. read more

My boyfriend and I went to dinner last night and it was an amazing experience! Get the window seat if you can too. We got the Rusty Pelican Board For Two and that was really good food, I'm gluten-free so we substitute the Local snapper for Mahi Mahi and it was a good combination. The service was perfect! Forgot our servers name and he was also training someone too and they were both really nice and made sure we were taken cared of! For sure will be coming back when I visit Tampa again. read more

Rusty Pelican - RUSTY PELICAN BRUNCH BOARD FOR TWO - Seafood Near Me - Tampa, Florida

Grace was my attentive server: she was great! The Rusty Pelican is my favorite restaurant in all of Florida. The service is so attentive and food delicious and the view is heavenly. An absolute must experience read more

Our waitress Sierra was so sweet and made us feel special. The salmon and mashed potatoes were delicious. I can't recommend the truffled corn enough. The view is so nice and the staff makes you feel so welcomed with warm smiles :) read more

I always have an amazing food here! My favorite menu item is the swordfish and the free cornbread appetizer. Also, the view is stunning and it's a perfect spot to see the sunset or watch dolphins play. Truly a wonderful place to eat. read more

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If you're looking for classic upscale on the water dining, this is the spot! Fresh whole fried snapper, lobster and gulf shrimp risotto, salmon fillet! These were delicious and the homemade cornbread was spot on! The staff were extremely accommodating and very welcoming. I would recommend making a reservation so you can get a table with a view! Very cool cabin like atmosphere with a huge fireplace and lounge area + bar. Such a great spot! read more

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Go here. That is all. Just kidding. But seriously go here. The food is so so food. The bread they bring out is a jalapeño cornbread that you didn't know you needed in your life. The view, the decor and vibe are all just perks. Also, the service was top notch, ask for Kyle if you can. He and the "new guy" knew all the answers. Also, I highly recommend the Belle drink. read more

Highly recommended. On the water overlooking Tampa Bay. The food is phenomenal and the service is perfect. Sara was an awesome server and very knowledgeable about the menu. I'd strongly recommend the Filet or the Blackens Soward fish. To top it all off, coffee and Key Lime Pie. read more

Wonderful service and nice location. Food was great. Grace was a delight. Would recommend!! read more

Our server, Grace, recommended the Snapper. Fantastic choice!! If you come, ask for Grace.

Did Sunday brunch with two close friends. We had a table with a great view of the water. Our server was great as well as the mimosas but my food was very underwhelming. I had the lobster Benedict. When I received my food, it was cold, like it had been sitting out on the counter. The only thing that was enjoyable on my plate was the cornbread that the poached egg rested on. I was expecting my food to be a little more appetizing considering it was $38. read more

Amazing dinner! Our server, TJ, was so attentive and on top of everything. We had a lovely view of the water and the drinks, food, service and ambience were top notch. A perfect end to our weekend in Tampa. read more

Located right on the water, this restaurant is a great spot to bring out-of-town guests. It was so fun to sit right next to the window and watch all the different birds fish for their breakfast. This review is for the Sunday brunch, as that's the only meal I've eaten here. I thought the buffet food was fine, and that the dessert station was excellent. I loved their idea of providing a one-page food menu of small plate items that we could order from our table in addition to what was offered on the buffet. We had the Belgian waffles with bananas foster and whiskey butter off this menu, and they were outstanding. The buffet had many of your basic breakfast items; eggs, bacon, potatoes, etc., plus an omelet station, a fajita station, and a carving station. The seafood area had crab legs, mussels, raw oysters, and shrimp, and was kept well stocked. There was also a small selection of sushi. Most of these items were good, although nothing was especially memorable, and I thought the selection was small compared to other local Sunday brunch buffets I've been to. The dessert station was my favorite, with plenty of options, and different items were added every time I walked by. Unlimited champagne and mimosas are included in the cost, so make sure you get there close to 11 am to take full advantage of it. Service was friendly and speedy, and Jade did an outstanding job removing dirty plates and topping off mimosas. read more

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We like to come back as this was our wedding venue almost 10 years ago. It never disappoints! As a matter of fact, we were just commenting as to how it is a hidden gem, and we forget how good the food and drinks are. Even better, our server, Sami, was incredible. So attentive and thoughtful. He provided great recommendations, kept us updated under the status of the food, asked us about our visit/how he couldn't prove our experience, etc., etc. Everything you would like in a server. Since we aren't local, I'm sure it'll be a while until we return it but we look forward to the next visit to the Rusty Pelican. read more