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
The Trading Post
The Trading Post of Islamorada — a 24/7 deli, grocery, and local market hub with fresh food, full deli, and essentials.
Key West
Pop's Smoke Shed Key West
Pop’s Smoke Shed — standout slow-smoked BBQ in Key West where bold flavor meets island casual.
Islamorada
Bitton Bistro Cafe
Bitton Bistro Café in Islamorada serves French-inspired cuisine, fresh pastries, and gourmet coffee in a cozy, relaxed setting.
Kermit's Key Lime Shop
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.
Key West
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.
Key West
Yummy Crab
Yummy Crab in Key West is a casual Cajun-style seafood restaurant known for bold, flavorful boils and generous portions of crab, shrimp, corn, and more. With daily pickup, delivery, and dine-in options, it’s a local favorite for fresh seafood and relaxed eats in the heart of the island.
Key West
Virgilio's Cocktail Lounge
Virgilio’s Cocktail Lounge in Key West is a hidden gem known for its handcrafted martinis, live music, and upscale yet relaxed island vibe.
Fritanga Amerrisque
Fritanga Amerrisque in Key Largo serves authentic Nicaraguan cuisine—think grilled meats, gallo pinto, and traditional dishes—straight from a cozy eatery/food truck.
Key West
Mam's Best Food
Homey stop for casual bites including shawarma and falafel, plus seating and takeout.
Islamorada
Kindler Wood-Fired Fare
Kindler Wood-Fired Fare — upscale wood-fired dining in Islamorada, where open-hearth cooking and island elegance unite.
The Lower Keys
Salty Oyster Dockside Bar & Grill
Salty Oyster Dockside Bar & Grill — relaxed waterfront dining in Stock Island/Key West, where fresh seafood, craft cocktails and live music meet marina‑side views.
Marathon
Driftwood Pizza, Pasta, & Subs
Driftwood Pizza, Pasta & Subs in Marathon offers handmade pizzas, classic pasta dishes, and hearty subs with fresh ingredients in a casual, family-friendly setting.
Key West
DJ's Clam Shack
DJ’s Clam Shack in Key West is a casual seafood spot known for its over-stuffed lobster rolls, garlic steamed clams, and conch fritters.
Key West
Key West Legal Rum
Key West Legal Rum Distillery offers free daily tours and tastings of small-batch, salt-cured rums crafted by chef-distiller Paul Menta. Located at 105 Simonton St, it's a must-visit for rum enthusiasts and curious travelers alike.
Key West
Rock Key Café
Rock Key Café — breakfast and brunch café in Key West, offering fresh sandwiches, Latin‑American coffee and casual island vibes right on 111 Overseas Hwy.
