Pelican Pub & Brewery

A few weekends ago, I was in Portland to attend my Son's Parent-Teacher Conference and to hang out with him for a couple of days. On a surprisingly warm and sunny Portland Saturday, we decided to drive to Pacific City. The Kid wanted to show me how to climb the big sand dune at Cape Kiwanda State Park. We arrived about mid-morning and had a great time wandering on the beach, hiking the dune (which I approached from the side), and otherwise exploring the seaside real estate.

After we came down around Lunch time, we were both hungry and there was the Pelican Pub & Brewery right in front of us. Besides being beach-side, this place has a stellar view and a cool patio (that is sometimes prone to hang glider landings). We opted to sit inside out of the sun, and both of us found our window seats to be comfortable and relaxing. There's lots of space within, which includes a gift shop in the front and a large private dining room in back for various community functions.

Our server was about my age and when we told him where we were from, he proceeded to tell us about his band preferences - Early Journey and Tower of Power. I was impressed, while my Son didn't have a clue what we were talking about. The resulting table service (especially for our drinks) was prompt and friendly, and I really appreciated how well the Kid was treated.

I'm usually a Burger and Beer guy, but chose the Green Chili Pork Stew instead. Holy Northern New Mexico! This dish was wonderful and with the Navajo fry bread, my mind wandered back to my delicious dining days in Española, Chimayo, etc. My choice of the dark Meg Doryman's ale also added nicely to the dish. My Son devoured his Fish and Chips and at least a couple of full glasses of root beer.

I was recently asked what makes a 5 Star experience. It can be many things, but for a restaurant, it's usually that special combination of where you are, how you got there, who you're with, the personal connection, and a dining experience that executes it's business model well, and helps make the total greater than the sum of its parts. On this special day, that was the Pelican Pub and Brewery.

I've been here quite a few times on my way to some favorite hikes on the coast. One thing is certain, the view and location is fantastic. Stop by just to see Haystack rock and have a beer if nothing else.

The food is decent, I have no complaints. Summertime (or any day the sun decides to shine), this place will be packed, plan accordingly.

The beer is tasty. Not my favorite of all time, but still a solid brewery. It also stocks a full bar.

Prices.. in this category they receive an epic fail. Took some friends from out of town here to show off the coast. We ordered three shots of Herra Dura. $30. I shit you not.. For three shots, of a tequila that costs $30 a freaking bottle. Six dollars a pint, more if you want their special IPA they charge extra, because it comes with extra hops...

They used to be dog friendly as well on the patio. Now if you want to bring your best friend on four legs, you'd better make sure those paws are in the sand, at the edge of the patio. Canines are persona non grata. (OKAY, Canis non grata for the latin nazi reading this)

+4 stars for the location and view. +3 stars for the food and drinks. -5 stars for the craptastic prices.

Heard so many great things about this restaurant so maybe our expectations were too high.  Ordered rare New York steak and received medium rare bad cut of meat.  They have me a new one which was better cooked and better cut, but still not a lot of flavor.  For breakfast ordered eggs Benedict and had to send that back as well.  Asked for soft poached and received hard poached.  Then when they brought the new eggs they were barely done.  I really just wanted the normal
Soft runny poached eggs that you normally get In a standard eggs Benedict. ( I have never even been asked before how I want eggs in eggs Benedict). Thought only one way. Anyway , not great experience for us.