The Rusty Pelican
Even in a city built on hyperbole, it can honestly be said that the Rusty Pelican has the best view of any waterfront restaurant in Miami
From its location on a finger of Virginia Key, the Rusty Pelican’s large windows face across Biscayne Bay toward the glass and steel core of downtown Miami.
Virginia Key is a special place, the last bit of big green the City of Miami has yet to harness. Since 1970, the city has leased a portion of the key to the Rusty Pelican. Owner and former military pilot David Tallichet also operates two dozen restaurants across the country, including the 94th Aero Squadron restaurant on the southern border of Miami International Airport. For Tallichet, the view is everything, and that principle has become a hallmark of the locations he opens. That, and fresh seafood.
The Rusty Pelican opened in 1972. In 1985, a fire largely destroyed the restaurant, but it was rebuilt (adding a second story and banquet facilities) two years later. The Rusty Pelican has served as the backdrop for numerous television and movie shoots, including a scene in Caddyshack, and regular appearances on ESPN and the Weather Channel. Numerous stars have also dined here.
The décor, all wood paneling and nautical-themed aesthetics, creates an impression of being submerged in a time capsule of Miami’s history. The entrance is a covered walkway with koi ponds on each side. Inside, the chateaulike lobby frames the sunlit dining room.
The staff, led by general manager Peter Knezevic, is uniformly charming. Knezevic, a native of Yugoslavia, has managed the Rusty Pelican since 1990. He has presided over countless weddings, romantic dinners, and business luncheons.
One of the best times to experience the Rusty Pelican is during the legendary champagne brunches on Sundays. A wide assortment of Miamians assembles to gorge on the most opulent buffet in town. Just outside the window, dolphins play among a riot of watercraft, and even the occasional seaplane. Massive cruise ships docked at the Port of Miami are also visible at the horizon.
These are the reasons the Rusty Pelican has been a Miami success story for more than 30 years.
3201 Rickenbacker Causeway, Key Biscayne, Florida 33149
Phone: (305) 361-3818
www.therustypelican.com/key_biscayne
Pix descriptions:
The romantic views of the water and downtown Miami attract many wedding parties to the Rusty Pelican.
The Rusty Pelican is located on a finger of Virginia Key, surrounded by the blue-green waters of Biscayne Bay.
From the moment you arrive at our tropical setting, you will realize that
The Rusty Pelican is the place to hold your memorable occasion.
The impressive Miami City skyline view and the daily sunset hues, set the
tone for a superb seafood-continental menu blended with local specialties.
The Rusty Pelican offers incomparable quality of food, outstanding service,
and attention to detail to your special event!
