When it comes to enjoying the vibrant food scene of South Beach, there's nothing quite like starting your meal with a perfect appetizer. Whether you're here for a beachside brunch, a stylish lunch, or an evening dinner with a view, one Italian restaurant on Ocean Drive is setting the bar high for flavor, freshness, and flair. If you’re craving seafood, Italian classics, and creative small plates, Pelican Restaurant offers some of the best appetizers in town. Nestled right on the iconic Ocean Drive, this Italian restaurant Ocean Drive favorite, has become a must-visit for locals and travelers seeking memorable bites with a Mediterranean twist.
Angus Meatball – A Hearty Classic
Start your meal with something bold and satisfying
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The Angus meatball is rich, juicy, and perfectly seasoned, slow-cooked in a savory tomato sauce that could be a meal in itself. It’s the kind of comfort food that reminds you why Italian restaurant Ocean Drive dining hits different.
Prosciutto e Burrata – Creamy, Salty, Perfect
This dish brings together velvety burrata cheese and silky, thin-sliced prosciutto for a match made in Italian heaven
. Topped with fresh arugula and a light drizzle of olive oil, it’s a luxurious start that balances richness with freshness. It’s no wonder this is a fan favorite during brunch in Miami Beach.
Caprese di Bufala – Simple and Elegant
Made with ripe tomatoes, fresh basil, and buffalo mozzarella, this classic Italian appetizer is light, refreshing, and beautiful on the plate
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It’s ideal for those looking for something healthy yet flavorful to begin their good lunch in South Beach.
Cuoppo Fritto – Crispy Seafood Delight
Few things pair better with an ocean breeze than crispy calamari and shrimp
. The Cuoppo Fritto is fried to golden perfection and served piping hot. This is a staple at any seafood Italian restaurant, and Pelican does it just right—crispy, tender, and full of flavor. Served in its own broth, it’s a rustic yet elegant dish that truly captures the spirit of a seafood Italian restaurant on Ocean Drive.
It’s a great way to share an appetizer while you sip cocktails during brunch in Miami Beach or settle in for a good lunch in South Beach.
Oysters Rockefeller – A Luxurious Bite
Rich, savory, and baked to perfection, the Oysters Rockefeller are a must-try for anyone who enjoys bold flavors and indulgent textures
. With a mix of herbs, breadcrumbs, and butter, this appetizer elevates your seafood experience at this standout seafood Italian restaurant.
Bruschetta – Light and Flavorful
Sometimes, simple is best
. The classic bruschetta, topped with marinated tomatoes, garlic, basil, and a hint of balsamic glaze, is a staple at any Italian restaurant Ocean Drive destination. It’s light, fresh, and full of flavor—an ideal bite before any main course.
This timeless appetizer brings a refreshing contrast to a warm beach day and fits perfectly into any good lunch in South Beach plan.
Sous-vide Sicilian Octopus – A Culinary Masterpiece
This dish is as refined as it is flavorful
. The octopus is slow-cooked for hours using sous-vide technique, then finished on the grill for that perfect char. Served with Mediterranean garnishes, this is a showstopper at any seafood Italian restaurant and a must-try when dining on Ocean Drive.
Why Pelican Restaurant Is the Place for Appetizers Located in one of the most famous areas in Miami Beach, Pelican Restaurant blends world-class Italian cuisine with the unique energy of South Beach
. Whether you’re people-watching from the patio, enjoying the sea breeze, or just diving into the city’s food culture, Pelican stands out as a leading Italian restaurant on Ocean Drive.
With a wide range of carefully crafted appetizers, it’s also a top choice for those looking for a satisfying brunch in Miami Beach or a relaxing, good lunch in South Beach.