5 /5 EpaVision Productions Studios: Wonderful place right on the beach.
The Funky Pelican, a popular beachfront restaurant at the Flagler Beach Pier, opened in January 2013 under owner Raymond Barshay, replacing the dilapidated Pier Restaurant with extensive renovations and a fun, beachy vibe, featuring local seafood and ocean views, and became known for its unique sidewalk chalkboard that grew from a construction quirk into a beloved community feature for messages and art, with the business recently extending its city lease through 2057 amidst pier reconstruction.
Origins & Opening
Location: The restaurant sits on the iconic Flagler Beach Pier in Flagler Beach, Florida.
Lease & Renovation: Raymond Barshay secured a long-term lease from the city and undertook major renovations of the building, which dated back to 1964, to create the new establishment.
Debut: It officially opened its doors in January 2013, drawing large crowds and local excitement.
The Famous Chalkboard
Discovery: During renovations, construction paper on the front walls created a unique texture where people could write messages with pebbles.
Community Feature: Rather than stop it, management embraced the trend, got city permission for a public chalkboard, and have maintained it as a living mural for community notes, birthdays, and memorial messages.
Recent Developments
Pier Reconstruction: The Funky Pelican continues to operate while the adjacent Flagler Beach Pier undergoes significant rebuilding after hurricane damage.
Lease Extension: In late 2025, the restaurant extended its lease with the city through 2057, contingent on exterior renovations to match the new piers aesthetic.
Vibe
The Funky Pelican offers panoramic ocean views, local seafood, and a "funky," relaxed atmosphere that fits the unique vibe of Flagler Beach.