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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Captain Tony's Saloon
Captain Tony’s Saloon is a historic Key West dive bar famous for its colorful past, live music, and legendary visitors like Ernest Hemingway and Jimmy Buffett.
J-Dao Sushi Thai
J-Dao Sushi Thai — vibrant sushi and Thai cuisine destination in Tavernier, Florida Keys.
Limes and Pies
Oldtown dessert shop offers dark chocolate dipped key lime pie on the stick! Ice cream, coffee, key lime pie, frozen drinks, and a large window for Duval street people watching."
Mercado Morada
Mercado Morada — vibrant Latin-American street-market dining at ocean-front Three Waters Resort & Marina in Islamorada, where bold flavors meet waterfront vibes.
Mac's Place
Mac’s Place — waterfront breakfast, lunch & dinner restaurant and lively tiki bar in Key West where marina views, daily live music and dock-side dining set the island tone.
Mr. C's Gourmet Ice Cream
Mr. C’s Ice Cream & Gelato – Serving homemade, all-natural ice cream, gelato, and real-fruit sorbets made from a 52-year-old family recipe in Islamorada.
Pier House Resort & Spa
Pier House Resort & Spa is a historic oceanfront retreat in Old Town Key West, featuring a private white sand beach, full-service spa, three dining venues, and the iconic Chart Room Bar
La Chapina Restaurant
La Chapina Restaurant — authentic Guatemalan cuisine in Marathon, where bold flavors and island hospitality meet.
Bongo's Botanical Beer Garden and Cafe
Bongo’s Botanical Beer Garden on Grassy Key offers a tropical oasis featuring over 20 craft beers on tap, garden‑fresh cocktails, and a vibrant food truck menu.
Big Bite Burger
Big Bite Burgers Food Truck in Marathon—giant burgers, branded buns & the legendary Triple B Burger.
Effortless Creations
Effortless Creations — curated gift boxes and custom handcrafted presents in Key West & the Florida Keys for weddings, corporate events, celebrations, and special occasions.
Punta Morada
Punta Morada is a coastal Mexican raw bar and grill opening June 2026 at Mile Marker 81 in Islamorada, serving fresh oysters, aguachiles, ceviches, seafood flatbreads, wood-fired tacos, paellas, and curated wines in an open-air tropical setting with a Jungle Bar.
Sugarloaf Key Hotel at KOA Resort
Tropical seaside stay with marina access and on-site dining.
Parrot Key Hotel & Villas
Parrot Key Hotel & Villas is a tropical oasis in Key West, offering spacious rooms, suites, and villas surrounded by lush gardens, four outdoor pools, and a complimentary shuttle to Old Town attractions.