Rusty Pelican gets a facelift

The view at the Rusty Pelican

Virginia Key mainstay the Rusty Pelican has seen a renovation exceeding
$9 million, with a modern decor and a dining room that is about half of
its previous size, according to the Miami Herald. “The idea is to create
a place that’s less formal and more welcoming,” said John Tallichet,
president and CEO of Specialty Restaurants, which has owned the
restaurant since 1972. “We wanted to create an environment that people
want to embrace as their everyday place. You can come and have a casual
experience or you can do it up.” Overseeing the menu is Chef Michael
Gilligan, the former executive chef at the W South Beach. The new
version will open on Monday. [Miami
Herald]