What should I order at Rusty Pelican Tampa?
Rusty Pelican Tampa
Blackened Swordfish
Mentioned multiple times as perfectly done, flavorful, and satisfying, often paired well with sweet potatoes. Highly recommended by repeat visitors.
Coconut Shrimp
Praised as perfectly cooked and quite tasty, described as the best some guests have ever had, making it a standout appetizer or entrée.
Lobster Tails
Specifically highlighted as a favorite dish, indicating it is well-prepared and enjoyed by diners.
Crab Stuffed Grouper
Noted for being outstanding with plenty of crab and perfectly cooked grouper, recommended for seafood lovers.
Surf & Turf
Described as excellent and part of a highly praised meal, suggesting it is a popular and satisfying choice.
Carved Flat Iron Steak
Mentioned as a favorite at a corporate event, appreciated for its quality and flavor.
Miso Sea Bass
Recognized for expert preparation and silky texture, though some minor critique about side texture; still a recommended dish.
14oz Steaks
Well-cooked steaks (medium rare and medium) that received praise for perfect preparation and flavor.
Grilled Chicken Sandwich
Recommended for its garlic aioli and bacon, noted as really good by diners.
Brussels Sprouts
Delicious and flavorful vegetable side, highly enjoyed by guests and suggested to order more than once.
Caesar Salad
Offered during happy hour as a good-sized portion with the best tasting capers, recommended as a bar or light meal option.
Hours
| Monday | 11 AM to 3 PM, 4:30 to 10:30 PM |
|---|---|
| Tuesday | 11 AM to 3 PM, 4:30 to 10:30 PM |
| Wednesday | 11 AM to 3 PM, 4:30 to 10:30 PM |
| Thursday | 11 AM to 3 PM, 4:30 to 10:30 PM |
| Friday | 11 AM to 3 PM, 4:30 PM to 12 AM |
| Saturday | 10:30 AM to 4 PM, 4:30 PM to 12 AM |
| Sunday | 10:30 AM to 4 PM, 4:30 to 10:30 PM |
About Rusty Pelican Tampa
Sophisticated bar & grill offering classic American fare in a formal dining room with water views.
Amenities & services
Service options
- Onsite services
Highlights
- Great beer selection
- Great cocktails
- Great coffee
- Great dessert
- Great wine list
- Serves local specialty
Popular for
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Solo dining
Offerings
- Alcohol
- Coffee
- Healthy options
- Private dining room
Dining options
- Table service
Amenities
- Wi-Fi
Atmosphere
- Cozy
- Romantic
- Trendy
- Upscale
Crowd
- Groups
- Tourists
Planning
- Brunch reservations recommended
- Lunch reservations recommended
- Dinner reservations recommended
- Accepts reservations
Payments
- Credit cards
- Credit cards
Parking
- Free parking lot
- Paid parking lot
- Paid street parking
- Usually plenty of parking
- Valet parking
Frequently asked questions
What is Rusty Pelican Tampa known for?
It is best known for its sunset and water views, especially tables overlooking the bay, paired with seafood dishes like crab cake, swordfish, snapper, and grouper. Review themes also point to strong cocktails and special-occasion meals, including birthday dinners and anniversary celebrations.
What dishes are most recommended at Rusty Pelican Tampa?
Reviewers repeatedly highlight the crab cake, swordfish, snapper, pan-seared grouper, and crab-stuffed grouper. Other frequently praised items include conch fritters, French onion soup, surf and turf, steak, key lime pie, and toffee pudding cake.
What is the atmosphere like at Rusty Pelican Tampa?
The atmosphere is described as cozy, romantic, trendy, and upscale, with a formal dining room and clear water views. It suits couples for anniversaries or birthdays, as well as groups, since reviewers mention large parties and special table requests being handled well.
Is Rusty Pelican Tampa good value, and what is the price range?
The restaurant is priced at $$$, so it sits in the higher-end range, and reviewers often describe portions as large and meals as worth it for the view and service. Some guests felt certain add-ons, like the crab stuffed grouper upcharge and paid parking, reduced the value, even though the overall experience was still praised.
What should you know about timing a visit to Rusty Pelican Tampa?
Sunset is the standout time to go, since many reviews emphasize the bay and water views at that hour. Reservations are recommended for lunch, brunch, and dinner, and one review noted arriving before opening and waiting at the bar for drinks until service began.
Is parking available at Rusty Pelican Tampa?
Yes. Free parking lot, Paid parking lot, Paid street parking, Usually plenty of parking, Valet parking is available.
Restaurants like Rusty Pelican Tampa in Tampa
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