Our server Marina was amazing, she definitely made our 1st experience wonderful. Food was good. My steak cook perfect. Not a fan of the potatoes, could b something more delicate. And my pouch egg over cook. Dessert was excellent. And the mimosas were delicious. My husband and love our brunch dates.

I was very hesitant to write this review because Rusty Pelican is such a highly acclaimed restaurant and has such great reviews but my experience was totally opposite. This is the first time that I am leaving such a low rating for a restaurant with a review score like Rusty Pelicans but I think it’s important to the 1.5 million people that have seen my posts that I keep the integrity of my reviews intact. I visited Rusty Pelican yesterday for lunch after being told that it was a great place to grab some lunch and planned that if the lunch went well, I’d come back and review their dinner as well. I ordered a white sangria which was just okay. After that, the main issue was with the grilled chicken sandwich plate. No one came up to me and asked how it was and I didn’t see any staff for several minutes after being served the sandwich. The bacon and fries were cold and the sandwich was lukewarm. So even if the temperature wasn’t right, that wasn’t even the main issue which was that the chicken was tough and when you took a bite, you had to eat like 1/5 of the sandwich in the bite as it wouldn’t break apart. I’ve had plenty of chicken sandwiches before but none as tough as this one which had me baffled. As far as the vibe, I wish their was a disclosure on the website that they were under construction and that it would be going on during certain hours. Also, I would say to Rusty Pelican that they should probably get some new stools at the bar as you literally sit too low compared to where the food/drinks are and I’m around 6 foot so I could only imagine someone shorter going up to the stools. Overall would not recommend Rusty Pelican based on my experience and hope they take the feedback to improve.

Amazing! Don’t hesitate to come eat here. We are food snobs since we lived in Philly and LA and are both good chefs at home. The fresh seafood, atmosphere and server and staff are superb! They make you feel so special and like they have all the time in the world to explain the menu and answer questions. The food? So fresh and flavorful and nothing overdone. Carmen is amazing! We are coming back and we almost never find a place that checks all the boxes but The Rusty Pelican checks ALL the boxes!

The ambience is genuinely great. The servers at the bar our wonderful. They created a wonderful jalapeno tequila drink... The brussel sprouts are absolutely divine. I was a bit disappointed in my scalloped dinner there wasn't much flavor at all. Unsure if they just missed a seasoning or what. Overall though it was a great experience. We would definitely go back next time we visit.

A view of the water and sunset like no other place in the area. This is by far one of the best restaurants to wine and dine with that romantic atmosphere. Everything on the menu is fresh and cooked to perfection. The service is exactly what you want from a 5 star restaurant! Parking is a little tricky as they offer valet and you will definitely need a reservation. However, we didn't have one early on a Friday night and we were able to be accommodated, and there is bar seating.

I recently had an unforgettable dining experience at Rusty Pelican in Tampa, Florida. From the moment we arrived, the warm ambiance and stunning waterfront views set the perfect tone for the evening. However, what truly made our visit exceptional was our amazing waitress, Grace. Grace's attentiveness and friendly demeanor made us feel welcome and valued throughout the entire meal. She effortlessly guided us through the menu, offering insightful recommendations that perfectly matched our preferences. Her expertise and knowledge of the dishes showcased the restaurant's commitment to excellence. The food itself was a delightful symphony of flavors. Each dish was masterfully crafted, and the attention to detail was evident in every bite. The seafood selection was particularly outstanding, and the freshness of the ingredients truly shone through. Rusty Pelican's blend of delectable cuisine, breathtaking views, and outstanding service provided an experience that exceeded all expectations. Thanks to Grace's exceptional service, the evening became a memorable celebration. Without a doubt, I highly recommend Rusty Pelican and cannot wait to return for another extraordinary dining adventure.

The restaurant was booked. I had to sit at the bar and had the best experience with Lewis and Joey! Lewis went out of his way to listen, provide humor, and both him and Joey provided excellent service. I ordered the surf and turf, and had the BEST steak in years, every bite was succulent. Highly recommend ordering it medium-rare. I had the blackened scallops as well, which I applaud the chef again for presentation & a flavorful Management was amazing, they follow up to see if you like the food, service etc. I’m for the experience and taste of a dinner. The staff definitely was worth a visit to this restaurant. I’ll definitely come again when I fly to town!

Came here for date night, it's been a minute. The best thing was the view, we enjoyed very much being on the water and catch a glimpse of the sunset. Our server, Carmen, was very pleasant and attentive. We started off with fresh oysters they were delicious. For our entrees we ordered the snapper and a lobster and shrimp risotto. The dishes were plated beautifully, and the portions were generous. I do think there was room for improvement on the flavors but we had a nice experience so we may return to try different things. We ended the night with the Cafe con Leche lava cake, it was scrumptious. Make sure to check out the pics!

Everything in this restaurant is just great! One of the best places you can dine in Tampa. The food is amazing, service is amazing and the atmosphere is a little bit conservative but adequate to the place. You should try to make a reservation but is not that crowed all the time thought. Check out the images so you see what I am talking about. Let me know what you think of this place.

We got brunch and the entire restaurant has nice ambience, even though we didn’t sit next to the window, there was still a beautiful view of the ocean. The calamari was good, and so were the egg benedicts and omelette. The french toast was non traditional and also tasted pretty good. I regret that we didn’t try any of their well-known seafood. The food isn’t mind blowing or anything, but it’s definitely a pretty place to have brunch with friends and our server was kind as well. I’m not sure if there is parking, but there is a paid valet.

Absolutely a great culinary experience. Carmen our waitress was fantastic and made dining a pleasure. The bread service was ridiculous with a cheese, jalapeño cornbread and a maple chili butter. The Chilean seabass was cooked perfectly. The manager didn't make rounds he came to the table personalty and checked on us, making sure we were enjoying dinner. Not the dog and pony show is everything ok? Absolutely a must of you are in the Tampa Bay area

Disappointing. We wanted a nice, upscale place for a special occasion. The price is upscale, the service and dining room are not. It was 15 minutes before anyone took our drink order while other tables were seated, received drinks, and had ordered food by this time. Our second round of drinks were incorrect - not what we ordered. The shrimp cocktail appetizer was over-cooked - the shrimp were hard, rubbery, and flavorless ... and the cocktail sauce was so dry we could hardly move it around. The oysters, while delicious, were poorly shucked - the shells were crushed. An hour into dinner and we asked about the delicious looking bread other tables were enjoying - it's the *complimentary* jalapeno cornbread, and we had to *ask* for it. It was incredibly delicious, by the way. It was the real star of the show and we weren't even going to have any if we hadn't noticed it on other tables and asked for it. The main courses were delicious - the lobster & shrimp risotto and the sea bass. They were over-shadowed by the poor service and the water dripping from the ceiling. It was raining outside, there was a hole in the ceiling which appeared to be quite old as the paint all around it had peeled, and water was dripping into the dining room carpet in-between tables. I suppose they were just letting it soak into the carpet because having a bucket catch a leak would look tacky? The sticky toffee pudding for dessert was delicious, though the portion size is too large. Great location with a beautiful view, but what a shame the service doesn't match. We won't be back.

Celebrated the wife's birthday here and was not disappointed. Our server Jonathan was wonderful and very friendly. All of our food was great. Only thing I wished would've made this better was a table by the window. And if you come at the right time you can see dolphins. We saw 1. Oh and either park at the deck across the street for free or pay for valet parking.

I was dinning alone and Grace made the experience extra special. The food was excellent and the service was very prompt and friendly. Rusty Pelican will always be my favorite restaurant and my visit on Sunday was no exception. The Lobster and Shrimp Risotto was delicious. I also had the wedge salad and cornbread. I sat by the window and watched a pelican in the water just outside my window. Thank you for another memorable experience.

The food wasn't good at all. The image of the food did not match the taste. The food look good. However, the food tasted like it was previously frozen, heated then served. The other reviews talk about the service, drinks and atmosphere, this should have been a red flag . Now I'm posting about how great the atmosphere, and service was, not the food. If they were able to serve good food, there would be a line around the bay to get in.

Our first impression was kinda disappointed since hostess lady (the older lady) didn’t make us feel welcome. However, from that point forward everything was up to our expectations. I brought my wife here for birthday dinner and she loved the place. Grace our server was amazing, she did a phenomenal job! Food was delicious and amazing dessert. We will definitely be back to try another dishes. Hopefully hostess will be in a better mood.

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. I’ve been three times and will be back.

Yowza! This place was fantastic. Warm fireplaces around the restaurant create a great atmosphere. The variety in the seafood tower was superb and the service was friendly and quick. I had a delayed flight and was worried my casual attire would be out of place, but we fit in perfectly. We’ll be back for sure. Put this one on your list for great food and a bay view. Sara was our server and she was great! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

We had the most AMAZING birthday brunch! The board for two was delicious, the steak was cooked perfectly. Emily was the best server! She was friendly, personable, and we will ask for her each time we come back. Food and service was much better than just 5 stars!

What an absolutely gorgeous restaurant and impeccable experience we had at the Rusty Pelican! Pedro was just the best server and we felt like we’d known him forever! He recommended several different things, all of which were delicious. We had the conch fritters, the dinner for 2, and the sticky toffee pudding for dessert. The wine options were great as well! We can’t wait to go back and try other things and we will request Pedro again, too! Highly, highly recommend this restaurant!

What a great happy hour! Drinks and appetizers were very tasty and reasonably priced. The bartender crew was fantastic! Chuck, Jerri, and Adam treated us very well. Scenery was stunning too! We’ve already made follow on dinner reservations! Update: Went back for dinner…and we were very pleased! Food, service, scenery were all phenomenal. Kyle (our server) was awesome! Highly recommend this place!

Spectacular views of Tampa Bay. Excellent service. Grace was a super friendly waitress. I got a little put off by the runny egg (don’t @ me lol) and she noticed my reaction and offered to have the eggs cooked more. Then they were perfect. Great ambience! Hangover mash (prime rib + fingerling hash and poached egg) Cons: - wish they had more gluten free options - no espresso machine / lattes - they were out of the cod fritter app I wanted to order - mandatory $8 valet parking Overall, would recommend as a great option for Sunday brunch.

We had a great spur of the moment dinner here, stopping by when they had just opened yesterday. We actually got married here over 20 years ago, and was pleasantly surprised by the renovations, much lighter and brighter now. Grace was a delightful server, attentive but not obtrusive. We ordered way too much food! Had a crab cake to start and a Caesar salad, both were delicious. Then had the board for two, which we enjoyed and gave us a taste of everything. Splurged on the key lime pie for dessert, most of that came home with us. Great experience, the last minute decisions often work out that way, right?

We have been here two times now for special occasions and it's been phenomenal. Nothing better than this place for a romantic sunset dinner. Service is A+, Food is A+ and Vibe is A+. Pricey but you get what you pay for which is a truly amazing dinner. Highly recommend

This place hits a home run on every single level You get exceptional service from friendly and attentive, and suggestive wait staff with gorgeous ocean views and then you are blow away by the flavors. For appetizers we started off with the black and scallops in the coconut shrimp balls were exceptional For dinner my filet mignon and lobster tails were cooked perfectly an absolutely delicious The risotto that came with the crab stuffed grouper, was out of this world Yes, it was very busy and reservations are required Yes, it is very expensive and worth every penny Five stars simply does not do this establishment justice Special thanks to grace our server.

Rusty Pelican is a very unique & tucked-away waterside restaurant with some great options. Everything from the appetizers to the entree, theough dessert was delicious and fresh. We had a large group & Caesar accommodated our party with Erin. I haven't had encounters with other servers, but these 2 were pretty good!

Today, I attended a fabulous luncheon and had a great time. The ballroom was beautifully decorated, and every piece of food served was delicious. From the hors d'oeuvres all the way to the dessert and to meeting so many awesome women, it was certainly a glorious time.

Enjoyed an amazing brunch, with excellent view of the Bay, excellent service from Grace, who took care of us, and delicious food and drinks. I Especially liked how each cocktail was brought to the table and presented!

We were seated 15 minutes after our reservation. Our server was nice. He gave us a champagne toast for our anniversary. I liked the view of the bay out of the large windows. The area where we were seated was almost uncomfortably tight. I'd rather not have the tables so close to each other or shoved in a corner where you have to be careful not to bump into people or furniture. The food was tasty with perfect sized portions. We had the swordfish with sweet potato puree and the lobster with shrimp risotto. The crab cakes, corn bread, and dessert were also delicious. I believe we will be back for another occasion.

Oh boy! We had the most amazing service from Nydia! She was our waitress and she made our second experience at Rusty Pelican the best! Nydia made sure we loved our food and drinks, and ensured that we were 100% satisfied. The food was perfectly seasoned and fresh. We had a great view of the water, as the cherry on top! My friends and I will definitely be back!

Grace was our server. She had such a great personality. We were there tonight celebrating my husband’s birthday. She suggested the Rusty Pelican board for two. There was a large variety of everything. The service was quick and the food was delicious and fresh. She even brought him a slice of cheesecake in celebration of his birthday. Which was a very nice treat. We will definitely be returning.

Oh my goodness this French toast is the best I’ve ever had in my entire life. The outside is crunchy and has the taste of the toasted marshmallow that sits on top. Inside was fluffy and warm. Chocolate sauce on the plate is perfectly paired with the raspberries. Perfect delectable amazing!

Hands down the best dining experience of my life. The food, atmosphere, and service were unmatched. We purchased the Rusty Pelican Board for 2 and I don’t think I have ever tasted something so amazing. The steak and seafood were cooked to perfection. The Brussel sprouts and even the salad were some of the best we’ve ever had. Our server Grace was absolutely amazing, she explained everything perfectly and knew just when we needed anything while giving us enough space. The atmosphere was so beautiful as well with great views of the water. 100 percent would recommend this to anyone. This was such a special experience for myself and girlfriend and we will definitely come back if we are in the area!

To start off, the food was absolutely delicious. My mom and I got the calamari, I got the crispy snapper and the sticky toffee pudding for dessert. Every bite was to die for. Also Josh was an outstanding server! He’s full of charisma and is downright amazing, giving quick service and laughs. I highly recommend stopping here for everything they have to offer!

We came here for our 7th anniversary dinner and Nydia was our server. She was so kind and took great care of us. The food and drinks were all so delicious. Highly recommend for a nice night out with a great view of the water.

We had our rehearsal dinner here few weeks ago and it was BEYOND amazing! The staff was so friendly and the venue is stunning. Not to mention the food was delicious! All of our friends were raving over the view and how delicious the food was. SOO happy we had it here. They definitely made it a special time (they had our event name in multiple areas of the restaurant). I would give them 30 stars if I could!

Went to celebrate my birthday and had an amazing time. The service was spectacular our server Josh was the best and made the experience special. The food was delicious and we will definitely go there again and ask to have Josh as our sever since he was so amazing.

We went for brunch. Nice water view with a mid-century modern decor feel. Large portions of food - much more than expected for a restaurant of this caliber. The food was delicious. I’ll be back for those conch fritters with martinis at the bar.

This is a must go restaurant in Tampa! Food is awesome! Fresh and juicy oysters, hearty crab cakes, zesty brussel sprouts, and the board for two is really a good deal! Drinks are phenomenal! Grace did a great job presenting the drinks and introducing the dishes. Will recommend to others!

Absolutely fell in love with this place. Great ambiance sitting right on the water and dining. I recommend the Blackened Swordfish, perfectly done and super satisfying. Cornbread needs a little work, but that’s forgivable. A-1 customer service and a very knowledgeable staff. Will definitely be returning and can’t wait to try other menu items. Worth the trip for sure.