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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Bongos Botanical Beer Garden
Keep your eyes peeled at Mile Marker 59 on Grassy Key because Bongos Botanical Beer Garden is one of those places you could easily miss and never forgive yourself for. Opened in 2020 inside The Lagoon adventure park, this tropical beer garden is surrounded by mature palms, banana trees, and an organic herb and fruit garden growing the fresh ingredients that go straight into your cocktail, with over 20 craft beers on tap, a daily food truck, weekend brunch and live music, hammock chairs for swinging, lawn games, and a genuinely dog-friendly policy that extends to a plain beef patty for your pup.
Origami Sushi Bar
The Spa at Sunset Key Cottages — luxury island-spa and wellness retreat in Key West, where serene treatments meet private-island elegance.
CAO Bakery & Cafe
Authentic Cuban‑American bakery and café serving classic pastelitos, cortaditos, sandwiches, and homemade baked goods in Islamorada.
Faro Blanco Resort Marathon Florida Keys, Curio by Hilton
Waterfront resort in Marathon offering coastal luxury, a full-service marina, spa, dining, four pools, and a sister property, Courtyard by Marriott.
Bourbon St. Pub
Bourbon St. Pub Key West is the island’s premier LGBTQ+ bar, offering lively entertainment, craft cocktails, and a vibrant party atmosphere in the heart of Duval Street.
Cuban Coffee Queen Downtown
Cuban Coffee Queen Downtown serves rich Cuban coffee, fresh sandwiches, and island favorites in the heart of Old Town Key West.
Wooden Spoon
The Wooden Spoon in Marathon is a beloved local diner serving hearty breakfast and classic comfort food in a cozy, hometown setting.
TJ's Tiki Bar
TJ’s Tiki Bar at Tranquility Bay offers stunning waterfront views, tropical cocktails, and fresh island-inspired bites in a relaxed Keys atmosphere.
Baby's Grill
Baby's Grill is a popular food truck in Key West, offering a variety of hearty dishes including cheesesteaks, grilled chicken sandwiches, and red beans and rice. Located at Mile Marker 15, it's the perfect spot for a quick and satisfying meal.
Bad Boy Burrito Taqueria & Tequila
Bad Boy Taqueria & Tequila is a vibrant Key West eatery serving fresh, bold Mexican fare—tacos, burritos, and more—paired with a full bar and island vibes.
City Hall Cafe & Wine Bar
City Hall Café & Wine Bar in Tavernier offers gourmet dining with fresh, locally sourced seafood, an extensive selection of wines and beers, and a welcoming atmosphere for both dine-in and take-out guests.
Small Chef At Large Catering
Small Chef At Large — full‑service catering & private chef services in Key West, where gourmet meals, event catering and yacht provisions meet island elegance.
Date & Thyme Organic Cafe and Market
Date & Thyme is an organic cafe and market on Fleming Street in Key West, serving fresh juices, smoothies, and vegan and gluten-free friendly plates. Short: Date & Thyme is an organic cafe and market at 829 Fleming Street in Key West, serving fresh juices, smoothies, breakfast, and lunch with plenty of vegan and gluten-free friendly options. Certified Plastic Free 305, it is a wholesome stop for grab-and-go island fuel.
Seven Fish
Seven Fish — refined seafood bistro in Key West at 921 Truman Ave, where fresh local fish meets modern comfort in a casual yet elevated setting.