Almost six years after re-opening following an extensive $7 million renovation, The Rusty Pelican, Key Biscayne’s iconic waterfront dining destination has undergone another transformation. The restaurant — which is renowned for its breathtaking views of downtown Miami — recently unveiled a new world class wine program, menu, and craft cocktails! Check out some of our favorites below.
All images appearing in this post photographed by Holli Lapes, property of TheSoFlaSage.com
Agave Sunset – El Jimador Tequila, Passion Fruit Puree, Blue Agave, Raspberries, Home Made Sour Mix
If you’re in the mood for something sweet n’ sour – this ones for you!
How about wine? You are SO IN LUCK!
Master Sommelier Michael Jordan was tapped to curate a new wine list of over 300 bottles. All of which are on display in their striking glass cube cellar; a signature design element at the restaurant’s entrance. Jordan is one of the world’s most knowledgeable experts on wine, holding a Master Sommelier diploma from the Court of Master Sommeliers as well as a Certified Wine Educator diploma from the Society of Wine Educators. He is one of only 15 people in the world to hold both these diplomas.
On the heels of the launch of the newly revamped wine program and tantalizing new menu items, Head Mixologist Oscar Amaya (formerly of Ariete and Baby Jane) has created a new cocktails list. In a space that offers one of Miami’s best sunset Happy Hour settings — seemly tailor-made for sipping cocktails while enjoying the view.
Jalapeno Cornbread
When asked if I would bread for the table, I usually say no because I want to save room for the meal. Big mistake – don’t skip the bread when at The Rusty Pelican!
Executive Chef Jimmy Pastors menu is a perfect complement to the restaurant’s idyllic waterside perch, with a wide array of fresh seafood and raw bar selections, along with signature dishes like 16 oz. bone-in rib eye and Niman Ranch bone-in 20 oz. pork chop as well as unique garden-fresh salads and house-made pastas that guests have clamored for.
Short Rib Empanadas – Roasted Jalapeño & Sweet Corn Emulsion, Tomato-Vanilla Jam
The Pelican – Mesclun Greens, Cucumber, Tomatoes, Fried Plantain, Red Wine Vinaigrette
Salmon Tartare – Crispy Jicama and Asian Pear-Avocado Salad, Soy-Yuzu Dressing
Definitely not your typical tartare – what a fantastic presentation! So fresh and tasty, too!
Bacon Wrapped Scallops – Black Thai Forbidden Rice, Organic Carrots, Foie Gras Mousse with a Quail Egg and Chorizo Vinaigrette
This entree can be split to share – it comes with 4 bacon wrapped scallops (which by the way are some of the best tasting and best cooked scallops I’ve ever had!) and here is what the half potion looks like.
Cafe Con Leche – Cuban Coffee Molten Cake with Cookies & Cream Ice Cream
Wow, this was soo yummy and #somiami
The Rusty Pelican is the perfect hotspot for dinner, drinks and special events. Plus, catering options are flexible so that guests may customize the menus to fit any event or budget — from a casual cocktail party to a formal wedding for 500.
We were super impressed with the whole outing. Top notch food – the presentation, taste, innovation and I mean c’mon – can’t beat the view! Sage Says: The Rusty Pelican is a must visit!
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All images appearing in this post photographed by Holli Lapes, property of TheSoFlaSage.com
Disclosure: I received a complimentary tasting at The Rusty Pelican. All opinions are my own
The South Florida Sage 
[…] this summer, we visited the Rusty Pelican in Key Biscayne for the first time (check out our blog post about it here) to try their new menu and it was AWESOME! Well, we just couldn’t keep away from what has […]