- Attraction: Salty Pelican Bar & Grill
- Location: 12 N Front St, Fernandina Beach, FL 32034
- Industry: Restaurant
- Website: https://thesaltypelicanamelia.com
Picture this: you’re savoring perfectly seasoned shrimp while watching boats drift lazily across the Amelia River as the Florida sun paints the sky in brilliant oranges and pinks.
At Salty Pelican Bar & Grill, this dreamy scenario becomes your reality every single evening. This two-story waterfront gem transforms an ordinary dinner into an unforgettable coastal experience that captures the essence of island living.
Founded in 2012 by hospitality veterans Al Waldis and T.J. Pelletier – whose idea sparked over drinks during a summer happy hour – the Salty Pelican has become the beating heart of downtown Fernandina Beach’s dining scene.
Their vision of combining exceptional food, breathtaking harbor views, and a fun atmosphere has created a destination that locals proudly call their favorite while visitors mark as a must-return spot.
Best Things to Try
Loaded Potato Spring Rolls: These aren’t your typical appetizers. House-made and absolutely addictive, these crispy golden rolls burst with creamy potato filling and arrive piping hot with the perfect dipping sauce that’ll have you ordering a second round before finishing the first.
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Keep Exploring →Signature Stuffed Burgers: The Salty Pelican takes burger craftsmanship seriously with their famous stuffed creations. Each burger features a beef blend packed with cheese and seasonings right inside the patty, creating an explosion of flavor with every bite that puts ordinary burgers to shame.
Fresh Shrimp Preparations: Whether you choose them fried to golden perfection, blackened with bold Cajun spices, or grilled with a light char, the shrimp here consistently earns rave reviews. The fried shrimp particularly stands out – crispy exterior giving way to tender, sweet meat that tastes like it was pulled from the ocean moments before hitting your plate.
Broiled Oysters: Their signature broiled oysters have achieved legendary status among regulars. Each plump oyster gets the perfect treatment with garlic, herbs, and cheese, creating a rich, savory bite that showcases why this dish has become a Salty Pelican calling card.
Tuna Nachos: This creative fusion dish layers seared rare tuna over crispy chips with seaweed salad, goat cheese, wasabi sesame seeds, and pico de gallo. It’s an unexpected combination that somehow works brilliantly, offering fresh, clean flavors with just enough heat to keep things interesting.
Pelican Wings: With ten different sauce options ranging from mild buffalo to spicy teriyaki, these eight-piece orders cater to every heat preference. The wings arrive crispy and well-coated, with standout flavors including the bourbon BBQ and honey chipotle that keep customers coming back for more.
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Discover MoreCatch of the Day: The daily fresh fish selections showcase the restaurant’s commitment to local sourcing. Whether prepared blackened, grilled, or fried, each preparation highlights the natural flavors of whatever was hauled in that morning by local fishing boats.
Craft Beer & Cocktails
Fourteen Craft Beer Taps: The extensive beer selection focuses heavily on craft options, offering everything from light, refreshing ales perfect for hot Florida afternoons to bold IPAs that pair beautifully with the seafood-heavy menu. The rotating taps ensure there’s always something new to discover.
Frozen Cocktails: The frozen drink menu earns particular praise from visitors looking to cool down while soaking up those waterfront views. Creative combinations and generous pours make these tropical libations perfect companions for sunset watching.
Pelican Punch: This signature cocktail has developed quite a following among regulars who insist it’s an essential part of the Salty Pelican experience. The recipe remains closely guarded, but one sip explains why it’s become such a beloved favorite.
Atmosphere & Décor
Two-Story Harbor Views: The second-floor dining area provides elevated panoramic views of the Amelia River and Fernandina Harbor that create an almost cinematic backdrop for your meal. Watching the sunset paint the water while boats glide by transforms dinner into dinner theater.
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Keep Exploring →Indoor/Outdoor Flexibility: You can choose between air-conditioned comfort indoors or embrace the coastal breeze on the outdoor spaces. Both options maintain excellent sight lines to the water, ensuring no matter where you sit, you’ll catch those Instagram-worthy sunset moments.
Rustic Coastal Charm: The décor strikes the perfect balance between casual beach bar and polished restaurant. Weathered wood, nautical touches, and an overall laid-back vibe create an atmosphere where you feel equally comfortable in flip-flops or dressy dinner attire.
Sports-Friendly Environment: With the largest televisions on Amelia Island strategically placed throughout both floors, sports fans can catch their favorite games without missing the scenic views that make this spot special.
Live Music Vibes: Regular live entertainment fills the space with energy, particularly on weekends when local musicians create the perfect soundtrack for waterfront dining. The music enhances rather than overwhelms conversation, striking just the right volume balance.
Other Considerations
Mid-Range Pricing: The prices align well with the waterfront location and fresh seafood focus, offering solid value for the quality and portions you receive. Most entrées fall into the reasonable range where you feel good about what you’re getting for the price point.
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Discover MoreBusy but Worth It: This popularity means you might encounter crowds, especially during peak dinner hours and weekends. The energy adds to the atmosphere, though some find it quite lively and bustling during prime times.
Family-Friendly Focus: The space welcomes families with children while maintaining an adult-friendly bar atmosphere. The diverse menu ensures even picky eaters find something appealing, making it a reliable choice for multi-generational dining.
Happy Hour Advantage: Monday through Friday from 3-6pm brings $1 off all drinks, making this an ideal time to sample those craft beers or signature cocktails while enjoying the afternoon harbor views with smaller crowds.
Parking Considerations: Being located in downtown Fernandina Beach means parking requires some attention, though the downtown location makes it easy to stroll around before or after your meal to explore the historic district.
Charter Fish Service: For fishing enthusiasts, they offer a unique service where you can bring your fresh-caught fillets and have them prepared professionally for $15.79 per person, turning your successful fishing trip into a restaurant-quality meal.
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Keep Exploring →Salty Pelican Bar & Grill
📍 12 N Front St, Fernandina Beach, FL 32034
