Fourth of July at Rusty Pelican: A View to Thrill (Photos)

All photos by Laine Doss

Fireworks, good food, and fun.

It's true that where fireworks are concerned, there's not a bad seat in the house. After all, you're looking up at the night sky -- usually from a beach or a boat. But with so many cities offering fireworks, there are few spots where you can partake of more than one display at the same time. The Rusty Pelican proves time and time again to be one of the best.

With sweeping views of Biscayne Bay, the Pelican offered Independence Night visitors an upscale barbecue buffet complete with a view of fireworks from at least three cities.

The restaurant's private second-floor party room was decorated in red, white, and blue, complete with American flag centerpieces. As a DJ played a mix of Top 40 favorites, guests drank wine and beer and dined on an assortment of grilled favorites. Highlights included firecracker shrimp, Jack Daniel's marinated chicken, and mac 'n' cheese.

Around 8:45 p.m., an excited crowd made it way to the Pelican's patio to find a spot for the show. After a few teases of independent fireworks, the real show started. The City of Miami came first (and lasted the longest), followed by Key Biscayne and Miami Beach. In addition to the requisite oohs and ahhs, people called out what they saw in each colorful blast.

"It's a butterfly!" "That was a planet!" "Did you see a pumpkin?"

The iconic restaurant has had a face-lift since last year's celebration, but one thing remains the same: It's the best seat in town for Fourth of July fireworks.

Serving up a barbecue buffet at the Rusty Pelican.

Jack Daniels chicken wings were a popular choice at the BBQ buffet.

All American desserts like cobbler, pie ala mode, and ice cream were crowd pleasers.

Watching the big show.

Views of several different fireworks displays caused heads to turn 360 degrees to keep up with the action.

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