Rusty Pelican Tampa is a waterfront seafood restaurant in the Rocky Point area of Tampa, located at 2425 N Rocky Point Drive overlooking Old Tampa Bay. The dining room and outdoor patio offer panoramic sunset views of the bay and the Courtney Campbell Causeway. The menu focuses on fresh fish, oysters, stone crab in season, steaks, and classic American fare paired with handcrafted cocktails. Reservations are accepted through OpenTable and walk-ins are welcome at the bar. Sunday brunch is served with bottomless mimosa options. The restaurant has a full bar, valet parking, private event space, and is a popular venue for weddings, anniversaries, and business dinners.
Rusty Pelican Tampa has anchored the Rocky Point waterfront for decades, earning a reputation as one of the city's premier sunset dining destinations. Floor-to-ceiling windows and an expansive outdoor patio frame Old Tampa Bay, making it a favorite for date nights, celebrations, and out-of-town guests who want a polished seafood experience with a view.
The kitchen leans into Gulf and Atlantic seafood — order the seared sea scallops, the blackened mahi, or stone crab claws in season. The raw bar turns out fresh oysters and chilled shrimp, while the surf-and-turf and filet mignon keep landlubbers happy. Sunday brunch features prime rib, an omelet station, and bottomless mimosas. Pair anything with a craft cocktail from the bar program.
Reservations are strongly recommended, especially for sunset seatings on weekends — book through OpenTable or the restaurant's website. Valet parking is available on-site. The dress code is upscale casual, and the venue regularly hosts weddings and private events in its waterfront rooms. Takeout is available, and there's an early-dining menu for guests seated before peak hours.
Expect a polished, upscale-casual atmosphere with sweeping Old Tampa Bay views, attentive service, and a seafood-forward menu. Sunset seatings book up fast — reserve ahead. Valet parking is on-site, and the dress code leans elevated. Plan on $50–$80 per person for dinner with cocktails.
The view at sunset is absolutely stunning — we sat by the window and watched the bay light up. Scallops were perfectly seared and our server was attentive without hovering. Worth every penny for a special occasion.
Came for our anniversary and they made it special with a complimentary dessert. The filet was cooked perfectly and the lobster bisque is some of the best I've had in Tampa. Valet was quick on the way out.
Sunday brunch is a must — the carving station and seafood spread are incredible, and bottomless mimosas are a great deal. The waterfront patio makes everything better. Reservations are a must.
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