Ocean Drive has a reputation, and locals will tell you about it: sidewalk hosts waving menus, oversized drinks, and surprise charges on the bill. Some of that reputation is earned. But Ocean Drive is also where some restaurants have been cooking for decades. Here's how to tell the difference before you sit down, with Pelican Restaurant as an example you can check against.
1. Look at the Menu, With Prices, Before You Sit
A restaurant you can trust shows you the full menu with prices up front, online and at the table. If a host won't tell you what a drink costs, walk on.
At Pelican, the full menu is online with every price: pastas from $22 to $36, pizzas from $18 to $30, salads from $16 to $24, and a Classic Eggs Benedict for $22 at breakfast.
2. Ask About the Service Charge
Many Ocean Drive restaurants add an automatic service charge. That's legal and common, but it should be disclosed clearly, so you don't tip twice by accident.
At Pelican, an automatic 20% service charge and tax are added to all checks, and it says so on the menu and on our website.
3. Check Who Is in the Kitchen
Tourist traps rarely name their chef. A real restaurant is proud of who's cooking.
Pelican's kitchen is led by Executive Chef Gio Sofia, a Sicilian chef with over 25 years of experience. Pasta is made in house, and the menu includes Sicilian dishes like Red Snapper in Guazzetto ($38).
4. See What Independent Writers Say
Look for coverage from publications, not just ads. Pelican (written about as Pelican Cafe before its rename) has been covered by Forbes, Livingetc, Resident, Biscayne Times and S. Florida Business & Wealth. Forbes wrote in 2024: "With his seafood-forward menu, chef is turning out some great crudo and seafood-rich pasta." Read them all on our press page.
5. Check How Long They've Been There
Restaurants that rely on one-time visitors come and go. Pelican has been part of the Pelican Hotel at 826 Ocean Drive since 1994 and celebrated its 30th anniversary in 2024.
6. Read Recent Reviews
Check recent Google reviews for the specific restaurant, not just the street. Look for mentions of the bill, the food and how staff handled problems.
The Short Version
Before you sit down on Ocean Drive, check four things: prices on the menu, a clearly stated service charge, a named chef, and independent reviews. Pelican Restaurant is open daily from 8:30 AM to 11 PM at 826 Ocean Drive; see the menu, or reserve on OpenTable.