Seafood platter with crab, shrimp, and wine on a wooden table.

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.

Key lime pie with whipped cream and lime on a plate, coffee cup nearby.

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.

Couple sitting at a picnic table under colorful canopy, a musician plays guitar nearby.

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.

Colorful vintage cars and buildings line a vibrant Havana street.

Cuban Heritage, Food and Culture Enrich Key West

Sample the sweetness of fried plantains served with lime-kissed pork chops.

Lionfish sashimi garnished with greens on a glass plate by a calm lake.

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.

Gourmet dish with garnish, two glasses of wine in background.

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.

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.

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.

Islamorada

Hungry Tarpon Restaurant

Hungry Tarpon Restaurant in Islamorada offers waterfront dining, fresh seafood, and stunning marina views for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.

Key West

Pinchers

Indulge in fresh seafood and lively bites.

Islamorada

SHIMA

Shima — fusion sushi & modern Japanese cuisine in Islamorada, where award-winning chefs craft unique rolls and elevated dining for special occasions.

Meetings Max

Key West

First Flight Island Restaurant & Brewery

First Flight Island Restaurant & Brewery in Key West blends aviation history, craft beer, and island-inspired cuisine in a lush garden setting.

Key West

Paradise Seafood Coffee Shop

Paradise Seafood Coffee Shop – A relaxed and budget-friendly seafood & breakfast food-truck-style stop on Stock Island offering fresh local fare just minutes from Key West.

Key West

Dante's Key West

Dante's Key West is a vibrant pool bar and restaurant offering fresh seafood, tropical cocktails, and live music in a lively waterfront setting.

Surly Siren Saloon

Surly Siren Saloon in Key West is a lively bar offering craft cocktails, local brews, and a fun, energetic atmosphere. Perfect for a night out with friends in the heart of Key West.

Key West

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.

Marathon

Barnacle Barney's Tiki Bar and Grill

Barnacle Barney’s Tiki Bar & Grill in Marathon offers waterfront dining, tropical drinks, and live music in a laid-back Keys setting.

Key West

Courthouse Deli & Whit's Frozen Custard

Courthouse Deli and Whit’s Frozen Custard in Key West serves fresh-made sandwiches, salads, and creamy frozen custard in a cozy, local spot.

Key West

Cafe Marquesa

Café Marquesa (at the Marquesa Hotel) offers refined coastal fine dining in Key West, blending locally sourced seafood, meats, and house-made desserts in an elegant setting.