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
Tiki Bar at Amara Cay Resort
The Tiki Bar at Amara Cay Resort in Islamorada serves tropical cocktails and island-inspired bites with breathtaking ocean views and a relaxed Keys vibe.
Key West
Toasted Coconut - Blue Flamingo
The Toasted Coconut Key West serves tropical bites, fresh seafood, and island cocktails in a laid-back, open-air setting perfect for relaxing under the palms.
Islamorada
Healthy D'Lites
Healthy D’Lites is a specialty bakery offering sugar-free, keto/low-carb, and diabetic-friendly baked goods that taste indulgent without the guilt.
Marathon
Rainbow Bend Resort
Rainbow Bend Resort is a family-friendly, oceanfront retreat in Marathon, Florida, offering a private beach, saltwater pool, and hot tub with ocean views.
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
Mangoes Restaurant
Mangoes — Caribbean-inspired dining on Duval Street in Key West, where fresh seafood and live music meet tropical island vibes.
Islamorada
ReelCatch
ReelCatch — Keys-inspired cuisine in Islamorada, where beachfront views meet live music & island flavors.
Islamorada
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.
Key West
Tong's Garden
Tongs Garden in Key West serves authentic Chinese cuisine made fresh with bold flavors and generous portions in a casual, welcoming setting.
Islamorada
Ziggie & Mad Dog's
Award-winning steaks and seafood with world-class wines in beautiful Islamorada.
Marathon
Chef Heather McDonald
Chef Heather McDonald is an award-winning personal chef in the Florida Keys, offering bespoke catering and private dining services.
Marathon
Hideaway Café
Hideaway Café at Rainbow Bend Resort offers fine dining with oceanfront views on Grassy Key, blending French and American cuisine in a romantic setting.
Key West
Smoked BBQ
Smoked BBQ Key West — Southern‑style smoked meats and classic BBQ sides on a floating‑dock setting at Garrison Bight Marina in Key West.
Key Largo
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 Lower Keys
Boondocks Grille and Draft House
Boondocks Grille & Draft House is a lively waterfront restaurant and tiki bar in Ramrod Key, offering fresh seafood, burgers, live music, and the only 18-hole mini-golf course in the Florida Keys.
