One afternoon on a drive to Cocoa Beach, we ended up at a little dive on the water with one of the happiest, friendliest staff I’ve ever encountered. Even the owner, Rusty, was smiling as he bussed the tables — something, we were told, he frequently did.

Rusty’s Seafood & Oyster Bar is a dockside seafood restaurant where people come to watch Cape Canaveral launches. 

I sampled their Moscow mule — the vodka-ginger beer mixture traditionally served in a copper mug; my dining partner tried Rusty’s Relaxer with light and dark rum, banana liqueur, blackberry brandy and orange-pineapple juice. We ordered their smoked fish dip ($10) to accompany that. The house-smoked fish was delicious, lightly seasoned and served with crackers and celery sticks. 

After, we shared two early-bird specials, served from opening to 4 pm. One was a parmesan-crusted fresh fish of the day — tilapia — with fries and cole slaw ($14); the other was shrimp, lightly battered, fried and tossed in buffalo sauce ($13) with sweet potato fries and cole slaw. Both were yummy.

Our fries, though, weren’t hot. The first server who walked by asked to assist and did so with that same big smile all the servers sported! Julz, our waitress, brought out fresh hot fries, agreeing that spuds are best enjoyed hot.

If you’re in the area, stop by for good food and outstanding friendly service. If you do so, tell Rusty I said, “Hi!”

Rusty’s Seafood & Oyster Bar
628 Glen Cheek Drive
Port Canaveral, Florida 32920
(321) 783-2033
rustysseafood.com