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    Rusty Pelican

    3.7 (2.5k reviews)
    PriceySeafood
    Closed • 11:00 am - 9:00 pm
    Updated 2 months ago

    Rusty Pelican Photos

    Business Info

    RUSTY PELICAN ATMOSPHERE

    What's the vibe?
    Moderate noise
    Happy hour specials
    Good for groups
    Good for kids

    Recommended Reviews - Rusty Pelican

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    Reviews With Photos

    Chicken Piccata with root vegetables instead of pasta. Side of Cauliflower Mash. Look at that gorgeous harbor view!
    David A.

    The temperature was over 100° today, so I drove to the coast and found myself at Rusty Pelican located right on Newport Harbor. What a lovely experience! Lucy was my server supreme, and she took outstanding care of me. When you take yourself to a nice restaurant, you want to feel like you're in good hands. Lucy knew the menu very well, offered the special, and recommended her favorites. My glass was always full, and my table was always tidy - used dishes and cutlery were immediately cleared. I enjoyed the chicken piccata -- I know it's a seafood place, but I ordered what I wanted without judgment! I also ordered a house salad to start and a side of cauliflower mash. Everything was delicious: the salad was fresh and light, the cauliflower mash was exceptionally smooth and creamy, the chicken piccata was cooked perfectly, and the wine sauce contrasted nicely with the buttery mashed cauliflower. The kitchen even accommodated my request to substitute vegetables for the pasta (although the veg serving was a bit much). Lastly, the view of the sparkling harbor with the boats gliding to and fro was delightful. Altogether a very relaxing and refreshing respite from the heat outside. For a spot that has been here for over five decades, it maintains its charm and excellence. And special thanks to Lucy for making an afternoon of taking myself out to lunch feel like an occasion.

    Delicious seafood bisque
    MaDonna W.

    If you haven't been to Rusty pelicans in a while or even yet. You will be pleasantly surprised. The views are amazing, especially at sunset if you can get there in time for it. It's worth every moment. The food and the service I felt were five stars all the way around I had the blackened cod slightly spicy to my liking. The fried calamari will surprise you at how big the pieces are and delicious. The crème brûlée cheesecake and lava cake is the perfect way to end the evening. I have not been to a rusty pelican in probably 20+ years. I am so glad we came and I cannot wait to come back. This one is top-notch.

    Garlic bread, tastes a lot better than it looks! Amazing
    Vanessa H.

    My new favorite place! I am new to the Southern California area, however my husband and I really enjoyed our meal. We tried this restaurant for our 12 anniversary, we got a reservation I asked for a table by a window; they had a great table ready for us it was romantic. Our server Jessica was very sweet! I enjoyed how Jessica checked on us but not too much she had the perfect balance of service. We had the garlic bread, so yummy. I had the special which was Mahi mahi for dinner and the crème brûlée for dessert. Both were delicious but I would literally go back just for that crème brûlée I don't drink so I asked about non alcoholic mocktails, I'm glad I asked because I didn't notice them on the menu... Jessica gave me some great options, I picked a berry mint sprits. I loved my drink it was nice and refreshing. My husband tasted it and tried to take it from me My husband had a glass of white wine I can't remember what it was but he enjoyed it. For dinner my husband had shrimp scampi and for dessert he had the mocha almond ice cream cake. He was obsessed with the chocolate sauce.. and devoured the dessert. I know we will be back! They made our 12th anniversary a very nice experience. One negative is you are required to use valet parking, which has a flat fee of $10. I would park somewhere else and walk in, the future. I didn't deduct a star for that; because it's not a huge deal and the service and food is more important to me.

    Beautiful view and day
    John S.

    I had a "fish dish" here a couple years ago and remembered how good it was, so when I came back and saw it was still on the menu, there wasn't much of a decision to make. The Swordfish Firepot was just as delicious as I remembered. Swordfish with a Cajun chili barbecue marinade, Cajun spices, shrimp, pineapple-mango salsa and jasmine rice. Lots of flavor, well prepared and fresh. The sweet salsa, spicy sauce, grilled fish and shrimp all work really well together. I also had a half wedge salad, which was delicious and the perfect size with the entrée. Sat at the bar, caught some of the World Cup and enjoyed the beautiful Newport Harbor view. It's hard to beat the atmosphere here. If you want something a little more upscale with a great waterfront setting, Rusty Pelican is a great choice. The outside area is cool too, and the service was very friendly. One extra tip: join Landry's Select Club. I had a $25 birthday reward, and they also surprised me with a piece of cheesecake for my birthday. Nice touch and a pretty good way to finish an already great meal. You'll spend a couple more dollars here, but between the food, service, atmosphere, view and the birthday perks, it's worth it. Great meal and definitely a place I'll keep coming back to.

    mai tai
    Kayla R.

    Ended up at this restaurant by chance as it was closeby and they had seating available to watch the world cup games. While we came for the games and a cocktail, we turned out to also be big fans of the food. We started with the Goat Cheese Souffle which was a larger portion than we expected and thoroughly enjoyed. Of course by the waterfront we had to try the shrimp cocktail which also had a bigger portion than we were used to seeing at typical steakhouses. If you're in for dinner or in the mood for a more substantial meal we ended up ordering the surf and turf with the North Australian Lobster Tail and upgraded the 6 oz filet to the 8oz which both proteins were cooked to absolute perfection. The host up front was an incredibly friendly and nice young man that was more than happy to assist us and letting us look around, and it was really him that convinced us to stay when we walked in haha. Our server and the bartender upstairs were very professional and had great recommendations as well. Overall it ended up being a nice outing with a great view.

    Delilah L.

    Everything was so perfect. Our waitress was so attentive, all the appetizers, drinks, food and desserts were to die for. We were having a blast enjoying lunch while observing some people learning how to sail with some fell of the boat! Valet parking only, $10 + tip. This restaurant is Landry's, in which the same company with Rainforest cafe. If you are staying at Holiday Inn Newport Express, you can just walk here. It was across the hotel.

    Mary C.

    We love coming here for dinner whenever we are in town. It is the coolest spot, right near the ocean and ever so comfortable. It just can't be beat for local flavor. The service there is just great. Everyone is so nice and some have worked there for quite a bit. I saw servers I know. Very nice. The entire place is spotless and it is so comfortable inside and out. They have a full bar. All of their food items are great. We love their lobster and steak and their crab cakes are just so tasty. They have great salads and their vegetables are fresh and cooked nicely. There is something for vegetarians, but I don't think a vegan would be happy here, the menu is very limited for them. You have to try the garlic bread, it is the best in Newport. It is just the best place.

    Travis S.

    Had an incredible dinner at the Rusty Pelican! We came here to celebrate a birthday with a large group (10). Making a reservation was a breeze and we even got seated early! It was everyone's first time here. The view of the Harbour is incredible. Worth coming here just for that! The service was exceptional throughout the entire meal. Eric was attentive, personable, and made our meal even better. Great menu for both food and drinks! Plenty of seafood and land options for entrees. We started with the calamari and coconut shrimp. So good! Dinner wise, I tried the Seafood Pasta - fantastic! Would get again! Everything we ordered was delicious during the course of the meal. They even surprised us with a birthday treat at the end of the meal! Rusty Pelican is a must try! Great service, food, and of course views. Can't wait to come back again!

    Salmon plate absolutely delicious!
    Simo M.

    The food here is very delicious and the views are so beautiful. Everyone is kind and serves you with joy and respect. Absolutely recommend this place!

    Michelle G.

    Exceptional service, truly the best we've had in OC. For food, stick to fish- it's incredible here. Salads/veggies/garlic bread- not so much. We had halibut and cod and the were both 10 out of 10 Atmosphere is unbeatable aside from crappy AI generated music (please just put on a downtempo YouTube mix, would be way better). All said and done, we will always be back. Thanks guys

    Dinner with my family at the Rusty Pelican.
    Sylvia C.

    I had dinner tonight at the Rusty Pelican. I couldn't wait to give a 5 star review. We went to celebrate my Birthday dinner. it's been 20 plus years since I've eaten here. Due to the fact I don't live in the area. However we had the most amazing dinner, such a beautiful place to gather and enjoy a great meal. Very pleased with the service Ashtyn hit all the marks. She even gave me a slice of cheese cake for my Birthday I will definitely not wait another 20 years to go back!

    Amy N.

    Still one of my absolute places to eat. The view, the food and staff is also nice. Can't ask for more. The fish is usually my go to and the garlic bread is also good- not extra crispy but good flavor. Parking is valet only.

    Steam Mussels & Clams
    Brenda P.

    This place came highly recommended by two friends and I can see why. I don't know why we hadn't tried this sooner but so glad I decided to celebrate my birthday here this evening. Service and food and ambiance were all amazing. We made reservations for two at 7pm and were sat immediately. I really wanted to watch the football game so we were dat upstairs. Lots of TVs all around. A bit noisy too but I didn't mind since we were I asked to watch the game. The waiter let us know the downstairs dining is more quiet so if you wanted a more romantic dining experience, ask to be sat at the lower level. Our waiter Eric was splendid and awesomely attentive. Such a nice genuine guy. Always checking on us to make sure we were doing well and if we needed anything. We split the scallops entree to start as our appetizer. The bbq and spice to it were such a great combo. My favorite was our dinner. The Chilean seabass, cooked to perfection. It was juicy and just perfect. Came with garlic mashed potatoes and a couple shrimp. Amazing dish. Definitely recommend it. We also tried the cheesecake dessert. Amazing. Must try!

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    Visiting from Chicago and very impressed. Blake was the best and the food was amazing. Definitely will be back!

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    Page 1 of 63

    Rusty Pelican Reviews in Other Languages

    Ask the Community - Rusty Pelican

    Is the place wheelchair accessible?

    Do they have a good view of the fireworks (July 4)?

    yes- but Ocean front is better.

    Is there parking?

    As of July 2025 - Valet costs $10

    If the happy hour is gone, why are the menus still listed? Are there any other small bites menus available?

    Outdoor seating available?

    Yes, ample outdoor seating, but reservations are recommended, food is really good, nice view of harbor, there's even a couple tables by a fireplace which looks cozy.

    Are there any entree options for vegans?

    Yes there are.

    Is it handicap accessible?

    Yes

    Is it dog friendly?

    I don't think So!

    Do they offer Corkage service?

    yes, they Do! $25.00 per bottle

    Is there brunch on Saturdays?

    Brunch is Only available on Sundays !

    Is indoor dining a available at this time??....and are they still having happy hour prices? Thanx..Love this place!

    Yes, dining indoors is available.

    Are reservations needed for big a big party?

    Yes

    Is this restaurant highly priced for a birthday dinner?

    Depending if you have set menu to control cost which I did. We were able to control cost to $35 per meal including beverage, tax and tip (18%). They normally will provide a small dessert for the one person celebrating their birthday. Requires good… 

    Is it a unlimited mimosas for brunch?

    Yep! Call ahead and reserve a table ;)

    Do they serve lobster and crab at lunch on Sundays?

    I am not sure. on Sunday they have a brunch. I would suggest calling the restaurant. The Rusty Pelican is considered sea food red so I would think they would have lobster and crab. Sorry I was not more help.

    Is this restaurant dog/pet friendly?

    Nope its not a dog/pet friendly restaurant.

    Is this a restaurant I can bring my well behaved 6 year old and do they have a kids menu?

    Yes

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    Hook & Anchor - Lobster roll

    Hook & Anchor

    4.5(2.4k reviews)
    1.3 mi
    •$$

    What an AMAZING experience at Hook & Anchor tonight!…read more From the moment we walked in, we were greeted by the sweetest manager, Kim, who welcomed us with such a great attitude and made us feel right at home. Our server, Gina, was absolutely wonderful, and her recommendations did NOT disappoint! I had the halibut with cauliflower purée, lemon caper sauce, and that delicious lemon drizzle -- SO GOOD! My husband enjoyed the seafood risotto and calamari sticks, and we finished everything off with the most incredible raspberry bread pudding. One of the things we really loved is that the food is made fresh daily using locally sourced fish, and you can truly taste the freshness in every bite! Everything was delicious, but what really stood out was the amazing service and hospitality. We had such a wonderful time and are DEFINITELY coming back soon with our loved ones! Thank you, Hook & Anchor team, for such a memorable evening!

    We've been to Hook & Anchor once before and it was so good, couldn't wait to come back…read more Clam chowder, amazing. Calamari, amazing. Burger (I know, seafood house.. but SO good!) Service was a bit slow tonight. The staff was on it and very accommodating! They obliged us with bread pudding () and also accommodated our bill. The manager was phenomenal! If you haven't, stop in! Amazing food by people whom care about your experience

    Photos
    Hook & Anchor - Interior vibe

    Interior vibe

    Hook & Anchor - Lobster roll - small kine

    Lobster roll - small kine

    Hook & Anchor - Bloody Mary

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    Bloody Mary

    Water Grill - South Coast Plaza

    Water Grill - South Coast Plaza

    4.3(4.4k reviews)
    5.4 mi
    •$$$

    I remember going to this place a while ago, and loving their buttersquach gnocchi or something…read moreclose to that. The side came with the halibut. And it is one of the best sides, I ever had in my life. I even went to the LA Water Grill looking for it and it was not there. Recently, I was celebrating another precious birthday dinner (a little delayed by 7 days but still counts) and decided to go here, last minute. My friend and I had reservations at another restaurant across the street in the mall. But, I wanted to be a little bit more hungry, so we decided to walk around and then cross the street to find our place in Water Grill. So we crossed the bridge that connects the mall to the other side where the Water Grill lies and with the heatwave we are enduring as Californians, the walk felt like a trek through Arizona streets. I have never been to Arizona. But now I do not have to, apparently. I had called the joint before but they told me they were absolutely book for the night. I have lived long enough to know that place in a crowded restaurant is sometimes a matter of finding a crevice to call one's own. But a crevice is sometimes found only through efforts. The staff was prepared to show us options, one of two bars, and seating in other areas of ther expansive restaurant. I think there were three options and all of these were in the avaiable areas. They did not try to find me a table in their main dining rooms, which is fine. I did enter as a peasant looking for stale bread. Ronnie, my friend, did not want to sit anywhere where the heat was abundant, but luckly on our trek through the bar we found a group departing. Those seats were for us. People were barely getting up. I was almost the tazmanian devil, but contained, I did not want to lose these seats which meant for us, to another person who needed those sits. I am not sure why but I was acting like a bridemaids during a clearence sale for her best-friend's desired gown. I wonder if this happens in real life or I am imagining a scene from a movie that made women savages when it came to low priced clothes? The stools had food rests. My feet did not hang. A significant plus! The crevice had been found, and, like mice who had found their cheese, we were ready to split food and giggle like rats as we did! It was a superb meal! Like, a holiday was had in the moment. Once I found the halibut with the gnocchi my made was made up. Nothing else would due but what I had waited for and found anew. Since the LA shop did not have it, I feared that this place would not as well. We also ordered brussels. Roonie ordered their sirloin and their chimichurri. At one point, I combined the gnocchi, with the halibut, and smeared the chimi, and ate it in one mouthful and the proceeding pow was a blast from the present to the taste buds. The Delorian arrived and parked in my tongue, is what I am trying to say. Our server was Diana. And I thought that she would be more familiar with the fact that Diana was the real name of Wonder Woman. So I am making some lame dad jokes, even though I have not fathered any children, about Amazon and Thymescara. And she politely nodded but later found out that she was not connecting my jokes. But I guess dad jokes can be like that. She was also really kind of cool as a server. For instance, Ronnie wanted to enjoy mac and cheese. I ordered but then I walked and saw their beautiful ears of corn and wanted some. Ben eut we were informed that we had enough food and the corns probably would not be needed. Diana accomodated the request of swapping the mac for the corn. I wanted no chili. Then corn on the cob came with chili. She said that she had put in the order. And then a second order of corn came without chili. Ronnie, being the pure angel she is, was like Do you need the chili corn back? And I was like, now we licked it. Simply because I feel that the restaurant would be tacky to deliver a wrong side and then ask for it back. Like for the prices you all be charging, they can let us absorb the cost of their mistake. Both ears of corn were left. The real kiss on my birthday from the universe was that I was allowed to have an entire side of the gnocchi for 16 dollars. It came. Now there was enough for Ronnie to share. I will admit that before a gurantee of more gnocchi I was wondering if they could share. We also got a tri-flavored cookie with ice cream with a sea horse cookie with ice cream. It was great. Exceptional even. And the garlic on the brussels, I am glad I am not the king of the undead. So this place is a gem under the sea that I can visit from time to time. It is just not that close. But it is not the white whale, nor am I Ahab. I can go more often. And after yesterday's dinner, I do not see how I can not.

    Just got done with dinner at Water Grill and the experience was definitely lacking. We sat at the…read morebar and was ignored while the bartender was talking to another couple. I would expect him to at least acknowledge us. A simple "hello"or "I'll be with you in just a minute" would've sufficed. He finally asked if we wanted bread and we said yes, but it never came and we had to ask a server who was passing by if he could get us some. He was very nice and brought us fresh hot bread. Second bartender was a little better and asked us if we needed anything. But for the most part we were ignored. Food was just ok. Nothing to write home about. We finally asked for the check from a third bartender and he didn't even look at us or say a single word and just grabbed our check and put it on the bar. Dude, you're in the service industry but your people skills suck. Again a "here you are" would've been nice. Left a terrible taste in our mouth. Won't be back to eat at the bar ever again.

    Photos
    Water Grill - South Coast Plaza
    Water Grill - South Coast Plaza
    Water Grill - South Coast Plaza

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    Shuck Oyster Bar - Chowda

    Shuck Oyster Bar

    4.1(1.3k reviews)
    5.2 mi
    •$$

    5-Star Review: Shuck Oyster Bar in Costa Mesa - Absolutely Outstanding Seafood Experience!…read moreI recently visited Shuck Oyster Bar in Costa Mesa (located at 3313 Hyland Ave suite C 21), and wow - it exceeded every expectation! If you're a seafood lover, especially oysters or creative tacos, this place is a must-try. We started with the oysters from Washington - a beautiful variety platter of four different types. Each one was fresher and more incredible than the last, with that perfect briny pop and clean finish. They were absolutely amazing and easily some of the best I've ever had. Then came the tacos, and they stole the show. The lobster tacos were out of this world - on a completely different level! Tender, flavorful lobster with perfect seasoning and toppings that made every bite pure bliss. The fish tacos were excellent - fresh, crispy, and perfectly balanced. And don't sleep on the shrimp tacos either; they were delicious and rounded out an epic trio. The calamari was some of the best I've ever tasted - light, crispy, and not greasy at all. We also got the lobster roll, which was again on another level - generous portions of sweet lobster in a buttery roll that was just heavenly. To top it off, the fish and chips were spot-on: crispy batter, flaky fish, and that classic satisfaction. A great touch was the cucumber-infused water - so refreshing and a nice thoughtful detail. The atmosphere is fantastic: chill vibe, not too noisy, and since we went before noon, it wasn't busy at all - perfect for a relaxed meal. The service was friendly and attentive. Overall, Shuck Oyster Bar is now one of my absolute number-one go-to spots in Orange County. I can't wait to come back - probably very soon! If you love oysters, fresh seafood, or just great food in a cool setting, you've gotta try this place. Highly recommend to friends, family, and anyone who appreciates quality seafood. 10/10 - we'll be regulars!

    First time visitor Opening parking lot…read more Location can be seen from parking lot but there are 2 entrances Primarily indoor dining and few outdoor spots Reservations seems to be a preference as everyone entering asked if they had a reservation but walk in we're still accommodated Happy hour weekly specials that inside oysters clams and and drinks Bar sitting and some table sitting available as everything is more on the compact side It can get very noisy but everyone was having a upbeat good time 2 flat screens for sports Food wise a little of everything was available from shareable, seafood style dishes like tacos and uni pasta and lobster linguini, along with burgers and sliders both fish and chicken Shucking of oysters or clams is visible at bar top and it would appear the place got busy real quick but was short handed as the servers were doing a bit of everything but also took time to notice patrons were looking for assistance and grabbing orders to run. Also very much chatting with each other and even when making eye contact with servers for assistance was ignored. Food wise order the dozen oyster chef choice, grill cheese, chowder fries, ahi and lobster taco Dozen oyster there were 3 types all on the brinier side with the final ones more brinier than others and accompany with ginger 2 types of chili sauce and pickle red onion Chowder fries a bit on the salty side with some bites but had a nice chowder and fries ratio With little heat from the Fresno chili that were garnished Tacos were served with in a blue corn tortilla, for $6 each on the smaller side like a street taco and flavors wise pretty basic, didn't stand out very much Grill cheese with 4 pieces very buttery toast nice crunch and gooey melty cheeses Overall pretty decent food but wasn't impress with the service and though short handed, there wasn't a sense of urgency to assist, minimal acknowledgment, and wasn't checked back on after food was dropped off as others were being asked around us Also noticed in their food kitchen window as dishes were waiting to be picked up there was a plate of burger and fries and someone from the kitchen twice with barehand taking bunches of fries from a already prepare plate to be delivered. Seemed very odd. Unsure if would return to this establishment.

    Photos
    Shuck Oyster Bar - Grilled cheese

    Grilled cheese

    Shuck Oyster Bar
    Shuck Oyster Bar - Grilled cheese, amazing clam chowder, and Oysters!

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    Grilled cheese, amazing clam chowder, and Oysters!

    Shorebird - Fluffy hotcakes served warm at brunch in Newport Beach, finished with butter and syrup for a classic start.

    Shorebird

    4.3(1.1k reviews)
    0.7 mi

    We came to Shorebird around 8 pm with a reservation for a larger party and waited about 10 minutes…read moreto be seated. The restaurant itself is spacious with a beautiful view of the water. Service was good throughout the meal, though nothing particularly stood out. We ordered several dishes to share, including the Butter Basted Hokkaido Scallops, The Shorebird, Swordfish, Prime Skirt Steak, Prime Skirt Steak Taco Platter, Chilean Seabass, Yellowtail, and Carrot Cake. Everything was definitely on the pricier side, but the quality reflected the price for most of the meal. The only miss was the Swordfish, which was too dry for us. My personal highlights were the Prime Skirt Steak, Chilean Seabass, and The Shorebird, especially the risotto that came with it. Everything tasted high quality and well prepared. We found street parking directly in front, which was free after 6 pm. There's also an underground lot where Shorebird validates two hours of parking. Overall, Shorebird is a great option for a special occasion or a nicer dinner out. I'd recommend making a reservation, especially if you're coming with a larger group.

    We went for a large work party and were seated right away. First I will say the service was the…read morestandout here, all the humans we engaged with , were super kind and supportive. I have an allergy so I always have to navigate food carefully-they took such wonderful care of me, and made it so easy to feel comfortable. The view was great, I sat close to the water and enjoyed a bit of a breeze and a great view of the boats coming and going. The only issue we had, was getting cell service to call ubers for our large group after dinner lol. Over all great experience.

    Photos
    Shorebird - Shorebird located on Balboa Peninsula in Newport Beach offering coastal cuisine in a modern, airy setting with views of the o...

    Shorebird located on Balboa Peninsula in Newport Beach offering coastal cuisine in a modern, airy setting with views of the o...

    Shorebird - Tomato & Avocado Omelette

    Tomato & Avocado Omelette

    Shorebird - Tin's Dressed Oysters

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    Tin's Dressed Oysters

    Luke's Lobster Balboa Island

    Luke's Lobster Balboa Island

    4.5(84 reviews)
    2.1 mi

    Had the most pleasant lunch date with my husband here at Lukes lobster…read more The restaurant is super cute with a very nautical and clean aesthetic. We were immediately greeted with a warm welcome from Jason. He was warm, charismatic and informative. My husband and I both ordered the quarter pound of lobster roll and a small clam chowder. The lobster roll had a generous amount of big chunks of fresh, flavorful lobster. The roll was not overpowered by too much sauce. You can taste the lobster and butteriness. It was pure perfection and it was how I believe a lobster roll should taste. The clam chowder was also perfect in flavor and had a good amount of clams. It tasted homemade and not overly salty. There is a good amount of shared seating behind the restaurant. We got here early and did not have trouble finding parking. This place will be a regular stop for us!

    Luke's Lobster in Balboa was another birthday treat from the wife, and she wanted to take me here…read morebecause she knows I love lobster and crab rolls, or really just lobster and crab in general. Now here's the thing, I've never really had a great lobster roll. It's always been so overpriced for the lack of flavor and just never really worth it. Luke's was the first and truly one of the best places I've had a lobster roll, and honestly it was kinda shocking. We ended up getting the flight, which came with a crab roll, a shrimp roll, and a lobster roll, and all three were phenomenal. But what completely shocked me was that the shrimp roll was a hundred percent the best of the bunch. The butter it came with, that pure savory sweet ocean saltiness, the bread, the butteriness of it, I wish I had ten of them. I could have sat there and eaten all of them right then and there. The shrimp roll was number one for sure, which really surprised me, but it was that good. The lobster roll was a solid second. Great amount of lobster too, and I mean this isn't the kind of place that gives you two or three sad little pieces, they pack a whole handful of lobster in there, which I really appreciated. If you're paying a pretty penny for it, at least they came through with a generous amount. The crab roll though, that one completely fell short. I wasn't too bummed since I was way more locked in on the lobster, but the crab just wasn't there. I don't know if the crab itself just didn't have the flavor this catch around, but it tasted like watered down salt with a little bit of butter. So yeah, that one was not great. Lobster and shrimp though, wonderful. The clam chowder was also really good. I added a little pepper just to give it an extra kick and a little bite, and it was great. The staff were so sweet too, super welcoming and helpful, especially since it was our first time and we had no clue what to get. We hit them with a bunch of questions just to get their insight and hear what their favorites were, and they were awesome about it, really welcoming and just genuinely sweet and helpful. This is definitely one I'd love to go back to, and I highly recommend it to anybody looking for a good lobster roll. Truly a good place in my opinion.

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    Luke's Lobster Balboa Island - Front of Luke's Lobster

    Front of Luke's Lobster

    Luke's Lobster Balboa Island
    Luke's Lobster Balboa Island

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    Rusty Pelican - seafood - Updated October 2026

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