Rusty Pelican

Salmon, Shrimp, Sea Bass, Lobster, Scallops- Whatever seafood you want, they have it - with a variety of configurations. Had the crab bisque and non-spicy Sea Bass option. Both excellent. Creme Brulee served in unusual approximately 10 x 1,5 inch dish. Took a little getting used to, but very good. And reasonable noise level. Very quiet.

*Updated: Review was made over 2 months ago. No action by owner who did reply but only asking for more info! Guess it didn't matter to them! ........ We have been a loyal customers of Rusty Pelican for over 25 years and today we were just turned away with no respect whatsoever by a manager (with an attitude) who should have never been hired to work at this fine dining place in Newport Beach. We previously dined outdoor on several occasions with our friend's small pom as we were told they are "always dog friendly in patio". Today we had reservation via Open Table at 1 pm for lunch with special request for "party of 3 outdoor patio WITH A DOG" Unfortunately we ran into this grumpy manager (who we leaned later that his name is Richard) who refused to sit us outdoor unless our dog was a "service dog"! He insisted that whoever told us that they are "dog friendly outside patio was a mistake" and refused service and even cancelled our Open Table Reservation!! We were not only shocked but upset with his attitude and didn't want to deal with him so we just left. If what he said was their policy and if their policy has changed, then they should have called us to confirm if the dog was a service dog (per our reservation request) which they never did! As we were leaving, we saw him standing outside the door as if he was guarding the door so we couldn't come back! This kind of attittude should have never been allowed or tolerated anywhere, especially in Newport Beach.

I stopped by this location on a work trip just cruising around Newport Beach and experienced the best solo dinner a guy could ask for. I was seated outside on the patio, no wait as it wasn’t crowded at all, the service was prompt. I started the evening out with an old fashion cocktail. I ordered the fish of the day, Blackened Halibut, I’m not sure if it a regular menu item. The dish was cooked to perfection

I’ve been to this restaurant a couple of times now and I have to say it is outstanding in every way possible. The food is delicious and worth every dime you spend, and you also get a beautiful view of the marina in pretty much every corner of the restaurant. Service has always been very friendly and our last server really went out of his way to explain different options to us in depth. The only thing is that valet parking is mandatory to park at the restaurant unless you park somewhere else and walk over. There’s a lot of high end restaurants in this part of Orange County and some are very average for the price you pay, but this place basically gives you both great food and a gorgeous view of the water for reasonable menu prices. I can’t recommend this place more. I definitely would suggest the garlic bread, crab bisque and breaded asparagus for appetizers, with all of the entrees I’ve tried being very good (they’re known for seafood and I usually choose those dishes when here). The Crème brûlée was stunning for our dessert.

Lunch upstairs on the marina with good people is not a bad afternoon

High end dining on waterfront. Nice booths. Great service, excellent eats.

The food quality has improved from a few years ago when the menu was getting tired. Great views over the harbor.