Rusty Pelican

Reviews

• DD

  Dave

  3 days ago
  5.0
  The temperature was over 100° today, so I drove to the coast and found myself at Rusty Pelican located right on Newport Harbor. What a lovely experience! Lucy was my server supreme, and she took outstanding care of me. When you take yourself to a nice restaurant, you want to feel like you're in good hands. Lucy knew the menu very well, offered the special, and recommended her favorites. My glass was always full, and my table was always tidy - used dishes and cutlery were immediately cleared. I enjoyed the chicken piccata -- I know it's a seafood place, but I ordered what I wanted without judgment! I also ordered a house salad to start and a side of cauliflower mash. Everything was delicious: the salad was fresh and light, the cauliflower mash was exceptionally smooth and creamy, the chicken piccata was cooked perfectly, and the wine sauce contrasted nicely with the buttery mashed cauliflower. The kitchen even accommodated my request to substitute vegetables for the pasta (although the veg serving was a bit much). Lastly, the view of the sparkling harbor with the boats gliding to and fro was delightful. Altogether a very relaxing and refreshing respite from the heat outside. For a spot that has been here for over five decades, it maintains its charm and excellence. And special thanks to Lucy for making an afternoon of taking myself out to lunch feel like an occasion.
• NB

  Nancy Baker

  3 days ago
  5.0
  We attended a lovely welcome party for a wedding weekend and it couldn't have been better. The staff was so accommodating and the sunset was spectacular.
• JS

  Joe Studley

  Sep 15, 2026
  5.0
  Great food, great service, and a beautiful view of the water. I got the Cajun swordfish, delicious! Upscale yet relaxed interior. I walked in without a reservation and got a table just fine, but they seem like they might get busy. I’d definitely return.
• OR

  Olivia Rivera

  Sep 12, 2026
  1.0
  This place just isn't what it used to be. Dining room needs a refurbishment. I sat upstairs and I felt CRAMPED. My halibut was incredibly dry. garlic bread was tasteless. I was really disappointed! The only reason to come here was for the view. Service was blah. 10 years ago they used to wine and dine you. The servers really knew their stuff! Not sure what happened.
• CK

  Clint Kim

  Sep 9, 2026
  5.0
  We visited for a friend's retirement party. We were welcomed by friendly staff and a view overlooking the waterfront. We ordered a few appetizers, and the garlic bread was particularly delicious (though I’d ​​advise against making the mistake of ordering more just because it’s tasty—we almost couldn't finish our main courses). The wine recommended by the staff was excellent, and we thoroughly enjoyed every dish, including the specials. The seafood was outstanding, and the ribeye steak was superb as well. Don't forget to save room for dessert.

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