The Rusty Pelican, a landmark waterfront Miami dining destination for nearly 40 years, currently is undergoing a transformation that will modernize the iconic restaurant with a spectacular new design and updated menu concepts featuring fresh, deliciously prepared local ingredients.
Scheduled to re-launch in November, the restaurant has been long known for its spectacular views of downtown Miami and as a site for special occasions. Equally popular with diners celebrating everything from anniversaries to school graduations, the venue also has served as host to countless weddings, quinces, bar mitzvahs and everything in between since opening in 1972.
To help catalogue the nearly four decades of memories and special moments celebrated on the property, owner John Tallichet has asked people to submit their best photos/videos and recount their favorite stories online at http://blog.miami.therustypelican.com/. Those that lend a hand in compiling this digital scrapbook will have the opportunity to win a dining credit of up to $1,000 at the sleek new restaurant when it reopens its doors later this year.
Tallichet, president and CEO of Specialty Restaurant Corporation, which operates the Rusty Pelican, is looking forward to the online entries.
“This is a family-run business, opened by my father, David Tallichet, who fell in love with the location back in the early 1970s,” John Tallichet said. “Putting together a digital archive of the past 40 years is a great way to honor his memory as well as all of our loyal customers throughout the years.”
Now through Friday, Oct. 14, fans of the Rusty Pelican are encouraged to enter stories, photos and videos at http://blog.miami.therustypelican.com/. All entries will be reviewed and posted online and winners will be selected and announced on Facebook and via Twitter. Prizes will include a $1,000 cocktail party in the new VIP lounge, a $500 dining credit in the main restaurant and a weekend brunch for four.
Anyone interested in staying in the loop and learning more about the exciting slate of opening events being planned to showcase the newly revitalized restaurant are encouraged to “Like” The Rusty Pelican at facebook.com/rustypelicanmiami and follow on Twitter @RustyPelicanMI.
The Rusty Pelican’s new look will include a chic indoor/outdoor lounge with stylish low-slung couches, a VIP room for private dining and bottle service, and an airy, yet intimate main dining room. Ballrooms will be updated and will include the addition of bridal rooms. The culinary program will focus on innovative menus showcasing fresh seafood and clean, contemporary flavors and the beverage program will embrace cocktail culture with a slate of signature drinks, and a comprehensive selection of wines and beers.
During the renovation, the catering sales office remains open on premises and will continue booking events for the holidays and beyond. Check the website for more details at www.therustypelican.com or the sales staff can be reached at 305-361-1818. The Rusty Pelican is located at 3201 Rickenbacker Causeway.
