One of the perils of a mid-June wedding is having your anniversary fall on the same day as Father’s Day. After worshiping at St. Peter’s Episcopal Church, where we were married in 2004, we stopped in for lunch at the Salty Pelican Bar and Grill. The restaurant is located at 12 N. Front Street in downtown Fernandina Beach. The two story restaurant has a prime view of the waterfront and patrons packed the patio to celebrate their dads.
We walked into the side door and were greeted by a hostess. A table had just finished on the patio, and we were able to grab a table with a view of the water. Inside the restaurant has a laid back sports bar feel with multiple flat screen televisions lining the walls and a wide selection of craft beers available both on tap and in bottles.
Our server brought us menus and took our drink orders. Becky opted for a mimosa and I ordered a draft beer. The waitress returned with our drinks and a small basket of complimentary beignets. Four warm powder sugar covered balls of fried dough were served with a small cup of chocolate sauce. The beignets were a bit dense, but I appreciated the gesture.
The salt air made me crave oysters, and I ordered six raw on the half shell. They were served on a small ice lined silver tray with horseradish, cocktail sauce, and a lemon wedge. I slurped one out of the shell. The oyster was ice cold, plump, and salty. The remaining five oysters were just as delicious, and were a perfect way to start our brunch.
For our meals, Becky ordered sauteed shrimp and I requested the shrimp tacos. Following a moderate wait, which was to be expected on a holiday, three flour tortillas arrived packed with tender shrimp. Shredded lettuce covered the shrimp and a slightly spicy garlic sauce was drizzled on top. The tacos were very flavorful and I enjoyed them with a side of steamed vegetables. Becky’s shrimp were properly cooked and she also enjoyed her meal.
Lunch at the Salty Pelican was a nice way to end our anniversary mini-break. Service was good and the atmosphere was relaxed. The restaurant can be found online at thesaltypelicanamelia.com, Facebook, and contacted by telephone at (904) 277-3811. The Salty Pelican is open seven days a week from 11:00 a.m. – 12:00 a.m.
Sweet Tea & Bourbon’s Rating:
Atmosphere: A
Taste: B
Presentation: B
Service: B
Cleanliness: A
Price: $$
Sweet Tea & Bourbon 
Next time you’re in Jax try Tacolu. Bangin Shrimp Tacos. Our fav.
Thanks for the tip! I drove past there once and the place was packed. I will remember to order the shrimp tacos!
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