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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Islamorada Fish Company
Islamorada Fish Company Market — fresh seafood retail market in Islamorada, where Keys flavors and top-quality catches meet.
The Armory Speakeasy at The Post
The Armory Speakeasy at The Post in Key Largo offers handcrafted cocktails and vintage charm in an exclusive, hidden bar setting.
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.
Habanos Oceanfront Dining
Habanos Oceanfront serves authentic Cuban cuisine—like ropa vieja and Cuban sandwiches—with tropical drinks and standout marina views in Islamorada.
Keys Wok n' Roll
Keys Wok & Roll — Asian fusion take-out & delivery in Key Largo, where bold flavors and island convenience meet.
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.
Mike's BBQ 101
Mike’s BBQ 101 – Mouth-watering Texas-style barbecue served at Mile Marker 101 in Key Largo.
Cafe Marquesa
Café Marquesa (at the Marquesa Hotel) offers refined coastal fine dining in Key West, blending locally sourced seafood, meats, and house-made desserts in an elegant setting.
Sundowners
Sundowners Key Largo is a waterfront restaurant on Florida Bay serving sunset views, fresh seafood, steaks, and tropical cocktails in a relaxed island setting.
Sandy's Cafe
Sandy’s Café — iconic Cuban & Conch take‑out café in Key West at 1026 White St, where the award‑winning “World Famous Cuban Sandwich” meets strong Cuban coffee in a friendly, no‑frills setting.
Barnacle Barney's Tiki Bar and Grill
Barnacle Barney’s Tiki Bar & Grill in Marathon offers waterfront dining, tropical drinks, and live music in a laid-back Keys setting.
Doc's Diner
Doc’s Diner in Key Largo is a cozy, family-owned spot serving classic American breakfasts and lunch favorites with generous portions and hometown charm.
The Perry Hotel & Marina
The Perry Hotel Key West is a modern, pet-friendly waterfront retreat located on Stock Island, just minutes from downtown Key West.
The Florida Boy Bar and Grill
Florida Boy Bar and Grill in Layton serves up fresh seafood, burgers, and cold drinks in a laid-back, coastal atmosphere.
Rick's and Durty Harry's
Rick’s & Durty Harry’s Entertainment Complex — vibrant live music and dance club in Key West, where seven venues under one roof deliver nonstop fun on Duval Street.