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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The Purple Porpoise Pub
The Purple Porpoise Pub in Key West is a lively waterfront bar offering cold drinks, great food, and stunning sunset views. A perfect spot for locals and tourists to unwind.
Marathon
Burdines Waterfront Restaurant & Marina
Burdine's Waterfront is a relaxed, family-friendly bar and grill in Marathon, Florida, serving fresh seafood, classic American dishes, and offering scenic waterfront dining with views of Boot Key Harbor.
Key West
Chico's Cantina
Chico’s Cantina in Key West is a family‑owned Mexican restaurant known for its award‑winning cuisine, featuring fresh, locally caught seafood and bold flavors in a casual setting.
Key West
Sunset Key Cottages
Sunset Key Cottages is a luxury resort situated on a 27-acre private island just 500 yards off Key West, offering upscale one- to four-bedroom cottages with wraparound verandas and panoramic ocean views.
Marathon
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.
Key Largo
Vicky Bakery Key Largo
Family-owned since 1972, Vicky Bakery serves authentic Cuban pastries and treats!
Key West
El Molcajete Mexican Restaurant
El Molcajete Key West serves authentic, family-style Mexican cuisine with fresh ingredients and traditional flavors.
Key West
The Waterfront Brewery
The Waterfront Brewery in Key Largo offers handcrafted beers, fresh seafood, and a relaxed waterfront atmosphere for locals and visitors alike.
Marathon
The Stuffed Pig
The Stuffed Pig offers hearty, flavorful sandwiches and comfort food in a casual, welcoming atmosphere. A local favorite for delicious, satisfying meals in the Florida Keys.
Key Largo
Daya’s Cafe Cuban Restaurant
Daya’s Cafe Cuban Restaurant in Key Largo offers authentic Cuban breakfast, sandwiches, and espresso in a welcoming, casual setting.
The Lower Keys
Kiki's Sandbar & Grille
Kiki’s Sandbar & Bar & Grille — beachfront seafood bar & grill in Little Torch Key, where live music, tropical views, and island vibes come together.
Marathon
Captain Pip's Marina & Hideaway
Captain Pip’s Marina & Hideaway offers waterfront accommodations in Marathon, FL, featuring cozy rooms and 1- and 2-bedroom apartments with kitchenettes.
Key West
The Hilton Key West Resort & Marina
The Hilton Key West Resort & Marina is a luxury waterfront resort on Stock Island, featuring six heated saltwater pools, a 165-slip marina, an on-site restaurant, and complimentary shuttle service to Old Town Key West.
Islamorada
Calypso's
Calypso’s in Tavernier serves up fresh seafood, Caribbean-inspired dishes, and tropical cocktails in a laid-back, island-style setting.
Key Largo
Sal's Ballyhoo's
Sal’s Ballyhoo’s Historic Seafood Grille — fresh Florida seafood with a Southern twist in Key Largo, where award‑winning dishes meet indoor and pet‑friendly outdoor dining.
