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.
Filters
Islamorada
Capt Craig's Restaurant
A beloved Florida Keys seafood spot in Tavernier, serving fresh catches and the “world-famous” fish sandwich daily.
Marathon
The Palm Deck
Rooftop cocktail lounge with ocean views, creative craft drinks, shareable plates, and live music in Marathon, Florida Keys.
Islamorada
Kaiyo Grill & Sushi
Kaiyo Grill & Sushi — upscale Island-Asian fusion dining in Islamorada, Florida Keys.
Islamorada
Take Two Islamorada
Take Two Islamorada serves fresh seafood and classic American favorites in a relaxed, Florida Keys atmosphere.
Key Largo
Alabama Jacks
Alabama Jack’s is a rustic, waterfront fish shack and dive bar in Key Largo, celebrated for its laid-back vibe and fresh seafood.
Islamorada
Caloosa Cove Resort
Fifteen acres on the ocean at mile marker 73.5, with 30 suites that all have kitchens, balconies and water out the front door, plus a heated pool and a sandy beach. Tie your boat up out back, walk over to Habano's for Cuban food, and never move the car.
Key West
Pescado Food Truck
Pescado — flavorful Key West seafood eatery blending American & Mexican-inspired dishes since 2019.
Islamorada
El Jardin Restaurante
El Jardín Restaurante in Islamorada offers authentic Honduran and Central American flavors—think tostones rellenos, hearty specialties, and vibrant Latin dishes.
Islamorada
Tides Beachside Bar & Grill
Beachside Bar & Grill at Islander Resort in Islamorada offers fresh coastal cuisine, handcrafted cocktails, and stunning oceanfront views in a relaxed tropical setting.
Islamorada
Great Wall Chinese Restaurant
Great Wall Chinese Restaurant in Tavernier offers classic, flavorful Chinese dishes like General Tso’s, fried rice, and noodle plates in a cozy Upper Keys setting.
Key West
Chart Room Cocktail Lounge
Chart Room Bar at Pier House Resort is a cozy, nostalgic Key West hangout serving classic cocktails and local lore in a tucked-away, nautically inspired 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.
Islamorada
Lido 73
Lido 73 — waterfront Italian-inspired dining in Tavernier (Florida Keys), where coastal flavor meets laid-back beach-club ambiance.
Islamorada
Café Moka Tavernier
Cafe Moka is a cozy, full-service café in Tavernier offering artisan coffee, gourmet pastries, fresh sandwiches, and all-day breakfast in a laid-back Florida Keys setting.
Key West
Salute!
Salute! On The Beach — beach‑front Italian‑seafood dining at Higgs Beach in Key West, where Caribbean‑influenced Italian fare meets sand‑under‑your‑feet ambiance.
