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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Kava Key
Kava Key is a non-alcoholic kava bar and community gathering space steps off Duval Street in Key West, offering kava, kratom tea, kombucha, house mocktails, kava ice cream, and a self-serve ramen bar in a lantern-lit 18th-century ship-inspired setting open daily noon to 2 AM.
Snappers Oceanfront Restaurant & Bar
Snappers Oceanfront Restaurant & Bar in Key Largo serves vibrant waterfront dining with a casual Tiki Bar, live music, dockside seating, boat dockage, and a “Keysy” island vibe.
Aqua Bar & Nightclub
Aqua Key West is a vibrant LGBTQ+ nightclub on Duval Street, renowned for its nightly drag performances, signature cocktails, and lively atmosphere.
Kermit's Key Lime Pie Shop
Located on Duval Street, Kermit's Key West Key Lime Shoppe offers a variety of key lime treats, including their famous key lime pie, in a vibrant and historic setting.
El Molcajete Mexican Restaurant
El Molcajete Key West serves authentic, family-style Mexican cuisine with fresh ingredients and traditional flavors.
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.
Sweet Savannah's Bake Shop
Sweet Savannah’s — cozy Key West bakery & café serving homemade breads, sandwiches, pastries, and island comfort
Little Whitehouse Subs
Little Whitehouse Subs in Key West specializes in giant, Jersey-style submarine sandwiches made fresh with premium meats and house-baked bread.
Isla Bowls
Isla Bowls in Marathon serves fresh, healthy bowls, juices, smoothies, and herbal teas designed to fuel your day the Isla way. Located on Overseas Highway, it’s a great stop for nutritious, flavorful options made with fresh ingredients.
The Birdcage Cabaret
The Birdcage Cabaret — live drag & variety cabaret in Key West, where glitz, music & bold performances light up the night.
Irie Island Eats
Tropical flavors meet fresh, locally sourced meals in a vibrant outdoor setting.
Southernmost Sandy’s Cafe
Southernmost Sandy’s Cafe — casual Cuban‑ and Caribbean‑influenced café in Key West (1327 Duval St) where flavorful eats meet a prime location at the southern tip of the USA.
Pescado Food Truck
Pescado — flavorful Key West seafood eatery blending American & Mexican-inspired dishes since 2019.
Marathon Grill and Ale House
Marathon Grill & Ale House — hearty American cuisine and craft beer in Marathon, where game-day specials, late-night hours and a welcoming “hometown” vibe await.