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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Lobster Shack, The
Lobster Shack Key West serves fresh, buttery lobster rolls, sandwiches, and seafood favorites just steps from the beach.
Croissants de France French Bakery
Croissants de France in Key West serves authentic French pastries, fresh croissants, and gourmet coffee in a charming Old Town bakery café.
Courthouse Deli & Whit's Frozen Custard
Courthouse Deli and Whit’s Frozen Custard in Key West serves fresh-made sandwiches, salads, and creamy frozen custard in a cozy, local spot.
The Hilton Key West Resort & Marina
The Hilton Key West Resort & Marina is a luxury waterfront resort on Stock Island, featuring six heated saltwater pools, a 165-slip marina, an on-site restaurant, and complimentary shuttle service to Old Town Key West.
Cuban Coffee Queen
Cuban Coffee Queen in Key West serves authentic Cuban coffee, fresh breakfast and lunch sandwiches, and tropical smoothies in a vibrant café setting.
Tattoos & Scars Saloon
Tattoos and Scars Saloon Key West is a lively downtown bar offering cold drinks, live music, and a true island party vibe.
Prime 951 Steakhouse
Prime Steakhouse — upscale steak and seafood dining in Key West, where premium cuts and refined service define the experience.
Seaside Cafe at the Mansion
Seaside Café at The Southernmost House — ocean‑front dining in Key West where creative island‑inspired dishes and cocktails meet sweeping Atlantic views.
Nine One Five Restaurant & Bar
Nine One Five – Upscale New-American dining in a charming 1850s Victorian home at 915 Duval Street, Key West.
Mary Ellen's Bar and Kitchen
Mary Ellen’s Bar — lively dive bar & comfort-food eatery in Key West, where frozen “Irish Coffee” and quirky events meet laid-back island fun.
Key West Salad Shack
Key West Salad Shack is a fresh, locally owned spot in Old Town serving vegan salads, wraps, cold-pressed juices, and specialty coffee drinks—perfect for a quick, healthy bite in the heart of Key West.
Sloppy Joe's Bar
A legendary Key West bar & live-music venue—Sloppy Joe’s offers tropical nightlife, cocktails, and island vibes since 1933.
Hank's Hair of the Dog Saloon
Hank’s Hair of the Dog Saloon in Key West is a vibrant dog-friendly bar with live music, creative cocktails, and a renowned food truck on-site.
Orchid Key Inn
Orchid Key Inn is an adults-only boutique hotel on Duval Street, offering stylish rooms, a tropical pool with a hot tub, and a vibrant poolside bar, all within walking distance of Key West's top attractions.
Pepe's Café
Pepe’s Café & Steakhouse – Historic Key West dining at 806 Caroline St., serving steak, seafood and sizzling cocktails since 1909.