Ah, Miami—the city where the sun always shines, and the dining scene is as vibrant as its nightlife. Among the glittering skyline and waterfront views sits a restaurant that sparks debate as fiercely as pineapple on pizza. Meet the Rusty Pelican, perched on the edge of Key Biscayne, where the views are breathtaking, and the opinions are…well, let’s just say they’re varied.
Is it a culinary paradise or an overpriced letdown? According to locals, it depends on who you ask—and maybe what you ordered.
For some diners, the Rusty Pelican is a case of style over substance. The glowing cityscape reflected in the bay might be dazzling, but several Redditors weren’t as impressed by what was on their plates. “First off, you’re paying for the view and the view alone,” one disgruntled diner lamented. Complaints range from dry lobster and bland steak to peculiar sushi choices. And don’t even get them started on the cornbread—it’s good, but apparently, it has no business being there.
Then there’s the tale of the infamous double whammy: bad ceviche and an even worse aftermath. One unfortunate customer detailed a dramatic bathroom episode that left them less than thrilled with the restaurant’s customer service. Adding salt to the wound, the bill remained fully intact, leaving a sour taste in their mouth, figuratively and literally.
Even the brunch crowd chimed in, sharing stories of burnt chicken, cold calamari, and waffles so tough they might’ve doubled as frisbees. For some, it seems the Rusty Pelican’s culinary compass has veered off course.
But before you cancel your reservation, let’s hear from the other side.
Despite its critics, the Rusty Pelican has a loyal fan base that swears by its charm. For every scathing review, there’s someone who raves about the stellar service, beautifully presented dishes, and those unbeatable views. “What a gem!” one diner exclaimed, applauding their perfectly seared scallops and decadent espresso dessert.
Business lunches, romantic dinners, or just a fancy evening out—many guests find the Rusty Pelican to be the perfect setting. The staff, particularly standouts like Alberto Suarez, consistently earn praise for their friendly and attentive service. And let’s not forget the cocktails, which some describe as “gastronomic surprises” worth every penny.
In the end, the Rusty Pelican might not win over every foodie, but it’s clear that for some, it’s a slice of Miami heaven. Whether you’re there for the skyline, the scallops, or simply the vibe, one thing’s for sure: love it or hate it, the Rusty Pelican keeps people talking.