Nestled in the charming beachside town of Nokomis, Pelican Alley is more than just a seafood restaurant—it’s a vibrant local hotspot that perfectly blends fresh, flavorful dishes with a welcoming atmosphere and unique local charm. Whether you’re a longtime fan or a first-time visitor, Pelican Alley offers something special for everyone, from mouthwatering seafood to live music and even a quaint gift shop.
A True One-Stop Shop at Pelican Alley
One of the standout features of Pelican Alley is its cozy gift shop affectionately known as “the closet.” Here, you can find an array of fun and quirky gifts, including hats, shirts, and pelican-themed souvenirs. It’s the perfect place to pick up a keepsake after enjoying a delicious meal or to grab a unique present for friends and family.
Fresh Seafood and Signature Dishes
Pelican Alley has built a reputation for serving some of the best seafood in Nokomis. Their menu boasts a variety of fresh, flavorful options featuring local catches and classic favorites. Here are some must-try dishes:
- World Famous Chowder: A rich, hearty starter that locals and visitors rave about.
- Baked Alley Grouper: One of the top sellers, this dish highlights fresh grouper baked to perfection.
- Stuffed Shrimp and Baked Scallops: Perfect for seafood lovers looking for something indulgent.
- Blue Crab Stuffed Pretzel with Lobster Sauce: A new and innovative dish combining a freshly baked pretzel with a secret recipe lobster sauce and blue crab stuffing.
- Lobster Mac and Cheese: Creamy, cheesy, and topped with buttery breadcrumbs, this is comfort food elevated with fresh lobster.
- Oyster Rockefellers: A beloved classic that makes a comeback on the menu, featuring house-made spinach, bacon, and a touch of Sambuca.
For those who prefer something other than seafood, Pelican Alley also offers excellent hamburgers and other options to satisfy every palate.
Sip and Savor: Cocktails with a Local Twist
No meal at Pelican Alley is complete without sampling their creative cocktail menu. Highlights include:
- Keyme Colada: A tropical, dessert-like drink made with Keim Lor Coco Lopez.
- Lady Adorna Espresso Martini: Named after a longtime team member, this espresso martini is a fan favorite.
- Watermelon Crawl: A refreshing blend of watermelon vodka, cranberry juice, and fresh lime juice.
The bar also serves local brews like Big Top draft beer, keeping the experience authentically Nokomis.
Live Music and Entertainment
Pelican Alley isn’t just about great food; it’s a lively gathering place with regular live music. Take 2 has been playing in the area for over 20 years, entertaining thousands of people. They play every era of music from the 40’s up to current with a mix of country, pop, rock, Latin and disco. You’ll hear everything from Lady Gaga to Patsy Cline. They have been honored with winning BEST OF THE BEST OF VENICE local band with over 15,000 votes. During the last eight years they have been playing in the courtyard at Pelican Alley every Friday evening where there is plenty of room for dancing. The audience is provided with tambourines, cowbells and shakers and are always invited to participate. It’s great fun for all ages!
A Fresh New Look After Hurricane Renovations
Pelican Alley recently underwent extensive renovations following damage from hurricanes Debbie, Helen, and Milton. The entire restaurant has been refreshed with new paint, drywall, flooring, a new dock, and updated seating. The revitalized space offers a bright, welcoming environment where guests can enjoy their meals indoors or relax outside while watching boats and the famous resident pelican, “Bitey,” in action.
Visit Pelican Alley Today
Located at 10009 West Alby Road, Nokomis, FL, Pelican Alley is open seven days a week during the season from 11:30 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. Whether you’re stopping by for a casual lunch, a lively dinner with live music, or just to browse the gift shop, Pelican Alley promises an unforgettable experience.
Make your reservations or place a to-go order by calling 941-786-3616 or visiting their website at pelicanalley.com. Feature your business with Out and About Sarasota today!
