Rusty Pelican

Reviews

• MS

  Michelle Sexton

  2 days ago
  5.0
  It's a little pricey, but with every penny you spend. My husband has the seafood pasta (delish) and I had the chef's special which was halibut (perfection). We also had the Calamari and creme brulee for dessert. Our server Sam was very kind and attentive. We would highly recommend this place.
• AK

  Ali Keyvan

  Apr 17, 2026
  2.0
  I emailed the general manager on 03.24.2026 to keep this feedback private but didn't get a reply so maybe by posting my review in public will get the management attention see below: Good afternoon Natalie, I hope this email finds you well. I usually don't like to write my reviews online because I feel like keeping them private is more effective. I wanted to share my first-time experience visiting Rusty Pelican in Newport Beach. We are regulars at Louie's by the Bay, but I wanted us to try something different for my wife's birthday. On March 14, 2026, I made a reservation for dinner with my wife and son at Rusty Pelican. Initially, our server was not very attentive, which we understood given how busy the restaurant was. I mentioned to the server that it was our first time there and that we were celebrating my wife's birthday, but he seemed to brush it off and quickly moved on to taking our orders. After finishing our dinner, we ordered dessert along with coffee. The coffee arrived right away, but while we were waiting for our dessert, the table next to us received theirs, and, coincidentally, one of the guests was celebrating a birthday (as well). They received their dessert with a candle. As we continued to wait, I caught the server's attention and mentioned that we preferred to have our dessert with our coffee. (because my wife finished her coffee and we were still waiting for our dessert) He apologized, but when our dessert finally arrived (without the candle), it was brought without the coffee. I felt this was a good training opportunity for the server, so I provided my feedback to the manager, Tom, on duty that night. Unfortunately, his reaction was unapologetic, rushed, and nonchalant. While we were waiting for our car at the valet, we decided that this would likely be our last visit to Rusty Pelican. However, one of your servers, Sylvia, was waiting for her car as well and overheard our discussion about our disappointment with the service and the manager's reaction. She immediately apologized for our bad experience and expressed her regret. I was surprised by her genuine concern, as she seemed to care more about our experience than the manager did. Before she left, Sylvia even paid for our valet out of her own pocket without us knowing, and she also tipped the valet driver. When I tried to pay her back through your valet service, they refused to take my money. I thought that was incredibly kind of her, and it made us feel better about the situation. I am writing to recognize Sylvia for her excellent customer service and concern for our experience. Her actions showed how much she cared about our feelings and our experience. Although we still do not plan to return, her kindness left a lasting impression on us. I have been working in the customer service environment for the last 30 years, and she checks all the boxes. However, Tom needs more training because, as a leader, you are supposed to lead, and your employees will follow your expectations. Please let Sylvia know that her action made my wife's birthday experience much better! She is awesome! Thank you Have a great evening
• JC

  Janice Caldwell

  Apr 11, 2026
  5.0
  We thoroughly enjoyed our dining experience and the food was excellent. Savannah was so helpful with explaining the menu options and the featured entree. We chose the garlic bread, crab cakes, shrimp cocktail, halibut and sea bass. All the items were cooked perfectly and tasted delicious. The outside seating provided a beautiful view of the harbor. They have valet parking. I highly recommend you visit soon. You won’t be disappointed.
• AR

  Adventures with Rusty

  Apr 8, 2026
  5.0
  Located on the Lower New Port Bay the scenery is beautiful from every table in the restaurant. This is in my families top 2 places we have to eat when we go to So Cal! Everything I have eaten here over multiple visits have been excellent. Not a single bad experience with any part of my visits. Try that Key Lime Pie!
• CC

  Chris

  Apr 6, 2026
  4.0
  Rusty Pelican has been a go-to recommendation for my clients ever since I got into real estate in Orange County. The harbor views are genuinely stunning — I've brought buyers here after property tours along the coast, and it never fails to seal the deal on why Newport Beach is so special. The swordfish and garlic bread are crowd favorites worth ordering. Service is warm and attentive, and the outdoor patio is perfect for those long OC evenings. A true local classic that holds up year after year.

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