Not too rusty, Rusty Pelican

The Rusty Pelican is anything from Rusty. This restaurant first of all has an incredible location. Located on Key Biscayne right on the water, the views are magnificent. When you walk up to this Key West style establishment, you feel like you are on vacation. The modern designs are relaxed with water features and tasteful artwork. You are immediately greeted by a friendly hostess that is ready to take you to a table. As you enter the restaurant, you pass by a beautiful glass wine case that made me stop and stare. Sitting on the water is a must, and the seating is right on the water. If you were any closer, you would probably have fish nibbling at your feet. One feature that I have to point out is their fire pits that I love! The whole patio area would be a perfect place for any type of reception or outside event. 

My dining experience at the Rusty Pelican was one to remember. I started with a strawberry mule that was a twist on a classic Moscow mule using strawberries, mint, vodka, and topped with ginger beer. The appetizers of calamari and a spicy tuna roll were beautifully plated and started the meal with quite a buzz literally. Both dishes were tasting great, a tuna roll of high quality as of any traditional Japanese restaurant and the calamari served with a citrus buffalo sauce, but a few flies also thought they were going to taste great. Besides having to swat at a few pesky flies, that course was great. For my entree I ordered a beer battered grouper sandwich was crunchy on the outside but nice and moist on the inside. I think dessert was by far the best part of the meal. My parents ordered a version of a Lava Cake, but instead of chocolate inside, there is Cuban coffee and this is served with Oreo ice cream. My dessert was a first for me because I never have had a baked Alaska, so I thought I would try one, and I was not disappointed. The baked Alaska was also filled with Oreo ice cream and presented beautifully.

Leaving the Rusty Pelican, I was full and quite happy with the dining experience. I could  not be happier with the friendly service, delicious inventive dishes, and the incomparable views. The only two negative aspects were those darn flies and that the restaurant was still located close to the busy Rickenbacker Causeway which provided the noise of cars every so often. Besides that, I could not complain about this restaurant at all. The prices are affordable for being in such an exclusive place on Key Biscayne and I can not wait to go back.