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.

Marathon

Marathon Bagel Co.

Marathon Bagel Co. — New York/New Jersey-style bagels in Marathon, where freshly baked 14%-protein rolls meet all-day breakfast & lunch favorites.

Key West

The Waggin' Wiggle

The Waggin' Wiggle is Key West's most lovable new food truck, serving tropical gourmet sliders with housemade sauces — from Blackberry Jalapeño with pickled red onions to Tropical BBQ with brie and grilled pineapple — plus breakfast tacos, pancake skewers, and brie bites at pop-up events across the island.

Key West

Moondog Cafe & Bakery

Moondog Cafe is a Michelin-recognized Key West restaurant and bakery serving breakfast, lunch, dinner, drinks, and house-made desserts near historic Whitehead Street.

Islamorada

The Nest BBQ and Sports Bar

Nest BBQ serves up mouthwatering, slow-smoked barbecue with bold flavors in a casual, welcoming atmosphere. A must-visit spot for barbecue lovers.

Key West

B.O.'s Fish Wagon

B.O.'s Fish Wagon is a beloved Key West eatery known for its fresh seafood, including grilled and fried grouper sandwiches, conch fritters, and shrimp tacos, all served in a laid-back, open-air setting.

Islamorada

Islamorada Fish Company

Islamorada Fish Company Market — fresh seafood retail market in Islamorada, where Keys flavors and top-quality catches meet.

Islamorada

A Dinner in Paradise

A Dinner in Paradise is a personal chef and private dining service operating throughout the Florida Keys from Key Largo to Marathon, led by Chef Arthur, offering fully customized 4-course ocean-to-table meals prepared, cooked, served, and cleaned up at your home, vacation rental, or resort for events, gatherings, and special occasions starting at $90 per person with a $375 minimum plus groceries.

Key West

The College of the Florida Keys

The College of the Florida Keys — a public college in Key West offering marine-focused degrees, workforce training, and higher education in the heart of the Florida Keys.

Key West

Sweet Conch Kitchen

Sweet Conch Kitchen in Key West serves fresh, authentic conch dishes and local seafood in a cozy, welcoming setting. Perfect for a casual bite or flavorful Key West experience.

Key West

Boat House Bar & Grill

Boathouse Bar & Grill in Key West serves fresh seafood, steaks, and cocktails in a lively waterfront setting with daily happy hour specials.

Key Largo

Alfredo's Cookhouse

Alfredo's Cook House is a beloved family-owned restaurant in Key Largo serving more than 50 international dishes — from hibachi and fresh seafood to steaks, pasta, and Mexican favorites — at a modest price point with a warm, come-as-you-are atmosphere that keeps locals and visitors coming back.