The Rusty Pelican is back, but with an expiration date.
Following months of extensive Helene-related repairs, the Tampa restaurant reopened at 2425 N Rocky Point Dr. on July 17. But after nearly five decades, it will be out by 2027.
Developers are looking to replace the landmark restaurant with a mixed-use project including a 21-story residential building and an 8,000-square-foot restaurant.
Tampa City Council unanimously gave developers, Costis-Lifsey Development LLC and American Land Venture, preliminary approval to rezone the land on Aug. 21, with the final approval set for Thursday.
Developer Stan Lifsey told Tampa City Council during the preliminary vote that his company has a long history in the Rocky Point area. His late grandfather, Julian Lifsey, bought the majority of the land in the 1960s.
“I feel like we will deliver another class asset to Rocky Point, and add to the vision that my grandfather had back in the 60s and 70s,” Lifsey said at the meeting.
Founded in 1978, Rusty Pelican has been a staple for local events and weddings due to its scenic waterfront location.
A spokesperson for The Rusty Pelican told Creative Loafing that the restaurant is looking for a new location, assuring locals that the end of their lease is not the end of their story.
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This article appears in Sept. 18-24, 2025.