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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Little Whitehouse Subs
Little Whitehouse Subs in Key West specializes in giant, Jersey-style submarine sandwiches made fresh with premium meats and house-baked bread.
Morita's Cuban Cafe
Morita’s Cuban Café – A cozy roadside Cuban eatery in Cudjoe Key serving up authentic sandwiches, plates and coffee.
Hurricane Grille
Hurricane Grille — waterfront dining and lively sports bar in Marathon, where fresh-catch seafood, tropical cocktails and live music meet Florida Keys fun.
Salsa y Sabor Baking Goods
Salsa y Sabor Baking Goods brings freshly baked ciabatta, focaccia, and sourdough loaves alongside handcrafted jams, dips, and nut butters to the Key West and Islamorada farmers markets — a Plastic Free 305 certified small business and a must-stop for anyone who loves artisan bread.
Willie T's Restaurant and Bar
Willie T’s in Key West is a lively Duval Street bar and restaurant known for its tropical drinks, live music, and upbeat island atmosphere.
Prime 951 Steakhouse
Prime Steakhouse — upscale steak and seafood dining in Key West, where premium cuts and refined service define the experience.
Mangrove Mama's
Mangrove Mama’s — beloved seafood & steakhouse in Sugarloaf Key where Island-style flavors meet a laid-back Florida Keys vibe.
Island Fish Company
Island Fish Co. — waterfront tiki bar & restaurant in Marathon, where fresh seafood, tropical views, and island vibes come together.
Harpoon Harry's
Harpoon Harry’s in Key West is a lively, all-day diner serving hearty breakfasts, fresh seafood, and classic comfort food with a laid-back island vibe.
South Island Pizza
Family-owned pizza spot in Islamorada serving handcrafted pies, fresh ingredients, and classic Italian favorites in the heart of the Florida Keys.
Oasis Mediterranean Cuisine
Oasis Mediterranean Cuisine — Mediterranean dining in Key West, where authentic flavors and garden-patio ambiance meet.
Broil Steakhouse
Broil Steakhouse is a boutique steak and seafood restaurant in Cudjoe Key, offering wood-fired dishes with the perfect blend of fine dining and island charm.
Midway Cafe & Coffee Bar
Midway Café & Coffee Bar is a vibrant, pet-friendly café in Islamorada, FL, offering fresh-baked pastries, organic coffee, and a diverse menu with vegetarian and gluten-free options.
China Garden
China Garden West in Key West offers classic Chinese cuisine, including favorites like General Tso’s Chicken and shrimp lo mein, in a casual, family‑friendly setting.
The Baklava
The Baklava Key West is a specialty dessert shop in Key West offering handcrafted baklava, Greek pastries, and indulgent sweet treats on Greene Street.