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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La Isla Taco Grill
La Isla Taco Grill — vibrant Mexican taco spot in Marathon, where bold flavors and casual island atmosphere meet.
La Grignote
La Grignote is a charming French bakery and café in Key West, offering scratch-made pastries, gourmet brunch dishes, and specialty coffees in a cozy, island-inspired setting.
Bangkok Happy Bowl Thai Bistro & Sushi Bar
Bangkok Happy Bowl is a vibrant Thai bistro & sushi bar blending bold Asian flavors, creative sushi rolls, and lively ambiance in Key West.
Mangia Mangia
Mangia Mangia — Italian & Mediterranean dining with fresh pastas, wood-fired pizzas, and warm Key West ambiance.
Salt + Ash
Salt + Ash is an elevated farm-to-table restaurant by Michelin-starred Chef Jeremy Ford, located at Hawks Cay Resort on Duck Key. It blends bold coastal flavors with fresh, locally sourced ingredients for a refined dining experience.
Skippers Dockside
Skipper’s Dockside — oceanfront seafood & comfort fare at Mile Marker 100 in Key Largo, where marina‑side views, live music and classic cocktails set the scene.
Asadero Mexican Taco and Grill
Asadero Mexican Grill in Key West offers authentic Mexican street food, featuring marinated meats, grilled specialties, and fresh tortillas in a casual, food truck setting.
Duetto Pizza & Gelato
Duetto Pizza & Gelato is an Old Town Key West go-to for NY-style thin-crust pizza, fresh Italian sandwiches, and 14 flavors of house-made gelato. Grab a slice on Greene Street, order delivery, and finish with a scoop, with vegan and gluten-free picks in the mix too.
Nine Line Apparel & Black Rifle Coffee Shop - Key West
Nine Line Apparel offers patriotic, veteran-owned apparel — shirts, hoodies, gear that honors service and American values.
Brady's Pub
Brady’s Pub is a lively Irish pub and sports bar in Key West known for hearty pub fare, multiple TVs broadcasting games, and a welcoming neighborhood vibe.
Scuba Scoops
Scuba Scoops — premium small‑batch ice‑cream shop in Key Largo (MM 102.7) where creative flavors and a laid‑back island setting meet.
The Baklava
The Baklava Key West is a specialty dessert shop in Key West offering handcrafted baklava, Greek pastries, and indulgent sweet treats on Greene Street.
Red Shoe Island Bistro
Red Shoe Island Bistro — boutique fine dining in Key West where locally caught seafood, European finesse and signature desserts meet.
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.