With spectacular waterfront views and an eclectic menu of fresh seafood and tender steaks, it’s no wonder Rusty Pelican has become a Newport Beach dining destination. We are proud to be a recipient of Wine Spectator’s Award of Excellence for 2011-2020 – a distinction bestowed upon only the nation’s premier restaurants.
Seafood fine dining in a relaxed space, with views of Newport Harbor from an outdoor patio.
Billy Wilikinson
Every Dish we tried was outstanding and thoughtfully prepared. The salad was a pleasant surprise, with a subtle smoky note that added depth and made it especially enjoyable. The setting elevated the entire experience—sitting by the window with a view of the water created a calm and beautiful atmosphere. It was the perfect backdrop for a relaxed and Seafood, Fish, Jumbo Shrimp memorable meal. Between the excellent food and the scenic surroundings, everything came together seamlessly. This is the kind of place that makes you want to linger a little longer and truly savor the moment.
… morelila boche
Had the most amazing lunch today at the Rusty Pelican, Newport Beach today. Our server Eric was extremely knowledgeable and guided us through what i would say the best food experience we’ve had in quite some time.
Eric went so far as to bring us a sample of a sauce of another entry we were thinking of trying on our next visit.
We trusted Eric’s recommendations and he ordered for us.
I had the Blackened Seared Scallops and my husband had the Black Cod Flagship….both amazing!!!
For dessert we had the Cream Brûlées.
Thank You, ERIC!!!!
We will see you again
Lila & Dave
… moreScott Alan Hardy
As usual when we go to the wealthy parts of Southern California it’s always less expensive
Some of the least expensive gas is in La Jolla, California and some of the best restaurant dining for the least expensive experience is in Newport Beach oddly enough
The Rusty pelican has incredible food but stick with their main menu. They’re foray into Turkey dinner for Thanksgiving was a little dry, but my wife ordered off their traditional menu. It was incredible and by the way tipping aggressively valet parking drinks, coffee, and too much food. It was like $150. I’m used to $400 for the experience in quality and location. We were right on the water.
… moreNick G
What a beautiful location to enjoy the afternoon sunshine, sip delicious mixed cocktails, and indulge in culinary delights. We enjoyed a dozen fresh and briney oysters on the half shell, a wonderful goat cheese souffle with sun dried tomatoes, olives, and pickled onions on toast that was bright and refreshing, and for mains we enjoyed the grilled swordfish with sweet chili sauce and fish tacos on a very unique shell that I’m not really sure of the backstory there. As a side, we ordered the most perfectly roasted and crispy brussel sprouts laid on top of the same sweet chili sauce as the swordfish was in, but with a good kick of fresh garlic added in. All of the dishes were visually stunning, subconciously preparing the pallet for every bite.
If you’re looking to slow down, unwind, fuel up or self-induldge… Rusty Pelican’s patio is the perfect option for lovers of fresh seafood and carefully crafted drinks. We almost chose a different location with slightly a slightly better overall rating but no ocean view… And we’re happy we didn’t.
Rusty Pelican phenominal food, drinks, views, and attentive service. This was our first time visiting, and we’ll definitely be back.
… morePete Rem
This review is solely for their Boat Parade dinner service.
Make your reservations in advance. The busiest time of year and one of Newport Beach’s most popular events spells disaster for last minute planners. We observed quite a few persons get turned away while waiting for our reservation.
… moreCeri Nelmes
Food was meh. We expected some great flavors. The seafood pasta had weird pasta in it. There was no smokey flavour as advertised. It had gooey, stringy cheese not parm. Brussel Sprouts were good.
… moreMartin Roberts
A very nice restaurant on the waterfront in Newport Beach. Excellent selection of seafood on the menu, with a couple of steaks too. I had a 12oz NY Strip which was nice. Jumbo shrimp cocktail was good too. Nice ambience but tables were quite tightly crammed in spoiling the ambience slightly. Had to wait 20 minutes for our table for two, despite having a reservation. Parking was valet only.
… moreMallory Reese
This is a great restaurant for date night. The restaurant was quirky and upscale at the same time. It was like eating in a fishing shack, but fancy. There’s also a gorgeous view indoors and from the balcony. My boyfriend and I have sat in both places and really enjoyed the view. Some food items are definitely better than others, but they have some really good dishes. Their zero-proof cocktail is absolutely excellent. Also, the staff was very accommodating and friendly.
… moreWy
Returned to Rusty Pelican for a birthday dinner. Valet parking ($10) only but makes for easy “in & out” of parking lot. Restaurant was clean and inviting. Hostess was very amicable, efficient, and seated us promptly. Server, Brenda, was “johnny-on-the-spot”…very friendly with lots of smiles, efficient & attentive, and service was great. Food was excellent (took some photos)…oysters, shrimp cocktail, mushrooms, scallops, swordfish, & salmon. In my opinion, the food was prepared properly and tasty. Overall experience for this birthday dinner was excellent and memorable.
… moreNikolaos
We had dinner last night. The host was very kind and she sat us on a table on the upper floor overlooking the water. Our server Cameron was attentive and great overall.
The food was very fresh and delicious.
We were celebrating our anniversary. Will be coming back for more.
Thank you Rusty Pelican crew for a wonderful experience.
… more