Food & Drink
Taste your way through The Florida Keys, where every bite feels like a mini adventure. From dockside seafood shacks and fresh-caught fish to Cuban coffees, quirky tiki bars, and Key lime pie that might just change your world, the culinary scene here is as vibrant as the coral reefs. Whether you’re after a fancy dinner with sunset views or a casual snack by the water, local chefs, distilleries, and cafés serve flavor with a sprinkle of Keys charm. Come hungry — you won’t leave disappointed.
Sweet Key Lime Pie Flavors the Keys
Few people visit the Florida Keys without sampling a few pieces of Key lime pie, renowned as the island chain’s signature dessert. Millions of slices of the tart, creamy treat — voted the official pie of Florida by the state legislature in 2006 (yes, really!) — are savored every year by Keys visitors and locals.
Brewed and Barreled in the Florida Keys
If you’re a fan of fine beers, ales, rums and more, you’re sure to enjoy unique libations created in the Florida Keys.
Cuban Heritage, Food and Culture Enrich Key West
Sample the sweetness of fried plantains served with lime-kissed pork chops.
Lionfish: An Incredible Edible Fish
It’s believed that lionfish, a popular Indo-Pacific aquarium fish, was first released in Florida’s Atlantic waters during the 1980s. Now lionfish prey voraciously on invertebrates and over 70 species of domestic fish. And these toothy coral reef fish, part of the scorpion fish family, have no natural reef predators except spearfishing humans.
The Keys Can’t-Miss List: Marathon Restaurants
Planning a getaway to Marathon and the middle Florida Keys? Check with local residents to find out which eateries they recommend to visiting family, friends and newcomers eager to discover the islands’ eats.
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The Lower Keys
Salty Oyster Dockside Bar & Grill
Salty Oyster Dockside Bar & Grill — relaxed waterfront dining in Stock Island/Key West, where fresh seafood, craft cocktails and live music meet marina‑side views.
The Lower Keys
Pizzaworks
Pizza Works — dependable family-style pizzeria in Big Pine Key where classic pies meet laid-back island flavor.
The Lower Keys
China Garden
China Garden in Big Pine Key offers classic Chinese dishes like General Tso’s Chicken, pork fried rice, and chow mein in a casual, family‑friendly setting.
The Lower Keys
Keys Cones
Keys Cones is a family-friendly mobile dessert trailer serving soft-serve ice cream, slushies, and sweet treats at events and markets throughout Key West and the Lower Florida Keys.
The Lower Keys
The Dining Room
The Dining Room at Little Palm Island offers an exclusive oceanfront culinary experience featuring fresh, locally inspired cuisine in a luxurious tropical setting.
The Lower Keys
Bagel Island Sandwich Shoppe
Bagel Island Coffee is a cozy Big Pine Key café offering freshly made New York-style bagels, Cuban coffee, and hearty breakfast & lunch sandwiches.
The Lower Keys
Broil Steakhouse
Broil Steakhouse is a boutique steak and seafood restaurant in Cudjoe Key, offering wood-fired dishes with the perfect blend of fine dining and island charm.
The Lower Keys
Mangrove Mama's
Mangrove Mama’s — beloved seafood & steakhouse in Sugarloaf Key where Island-style flavors meet a laid-back Florida Keys vibe.
The Lower Keys
Galley Grill
The Galley Grill in Summerland Key serves hearty American comfort food, fresh breakfast classics, and casual lunch specials in a welcoming Keys-style café.
The Lower Keys
Morning Joint
Morning Joint – A vibrant, pet-friendly café on Cudjoe Key serving farm-to-table coffee, made-to-order breakfast and lunch.
The Lower Keys
Hogfish Bar & Grill
Hogfish Bar and Grill in Key West serves authentic island flavors, fresh local seafood, and cold drinks in a laid-back waterfront setting.
The Lower Keys
Pop's Smoke Shed Big Pine Key
Authentic Florida Keys BBQ at Pop’s Smoke Shed — slow-smoked brisket, ribs, pulled pork & more across Key West, Marathon & Big Pine Key.
The Lower Keys
Stock Rock Cafe
Stock Rock Café at Cow Key Marina serves fresh seafood, craft beers, and classic bites in a laid-back waterfront setting.
