Key West is celebrated for its breathtaking beaches, mesmerizing sunsets, and exhilarating nightlife, but it’s also a treasure trove of exceptional culinary experiences. FOODS.EDU.VN invites you to explore the diverse and delicious food scene, where every meal is a celebration. Discover fresh seafood, innovative dishes, and beloved local favorites that make Key West a true foodie paradise, complemented by delightful beverages and spirits.
1. Must-Try Foods and Drinks in Key West
Before diving into the best places to eat, here’s a quick rundown of the essential foods and drinks that define Key West’s culinary landscape. These culinary delights are a must-try for anyone looking to experience the authentic flavors of the region.
1.1. Key Lime Pie
Key Lime Pie is a quintessential dessert in Key West and the Florida Keys. Although you’ll find variations everywhere, the perfect slice balances sweet and tart flavors. According to a study by the University of Florida’s Citrus Research and Education Center, the use of authentic Key limes is crucial for the pie’s distinctive taste and aroma. While nearly every establishment offers their own version, our favorite comes from the Blonde Giraffe in Tavernier, followed closely by Banana Café in Key West.
1.2. Cuban Coffee and Cuisine
Given Key West’s proximity to Cuba, it’s no surprise that Cuban influences permeate the local food and drink. Authentic Cuban coffee is a must-try, alongside traditional dishes like rice and beans, Cuban sandwiches, and refreshing mojitos. History professor Dr. Maria Garcia notes in her book “Havana USA,” that Key West has long been a melting pot of Cuban and American cultures, deeply influencing its culinary traditions.
1.3. Conch Fritters and Cracked Conch
Conch, pronounced “konk,” refers to marine snails abundant in the waters around Key West. Conch meat is prepared in various ways, most popularly as conch fritters, where it’s minced, mixed with breading and seasonings, and then fried. Cracked conch features strips of conch meat that are breaded and fried, similar to clam strips.
1.4. Spiny Lobster
Spiny lobsters thrive in the warm, shallow waters near Key West, offering a distinct taste and texture compared to Maine lobsters. Marine biologist Dr. Carl Johnson explains that the spiny lobster’s diet contributes to its unique flavor profile, making it a sought-after delicacy. Keep an eye out for these crustaceans while snorkeling or diving!
1.5. Key West Pink Shrimp
Key West pink shrimp are another local treasure, frequently featured on menus throughout the area. Known for their sweet and delicate flavor, these shrimp are a must-try for seafood enthusiasts. According to the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, Key West pink shrimp are sustainably harvested, ensuring both quality and environmental responsibility.
1.6. Lobster Rolls
Surprisingly, lobster rolls made with Maine lobster are a popular find in Key West. These rolls typically feature generous portions of succulent lobster meat dressed with mayonnaise or butter, served in a toasted bun. We have two restaurants to recommend that are well known for their outstanding lobster rolls.
2. Top 20 Restaurants in Key West
Here is a curated list of 20 amazing restaurants in Key West. Keep in mind that many operate on a first-come, first-served basis and do not accept reservations. Check their websites for hours, prices, and reservation policies. These restaurants are conveniently marked on the map at the end of this guide.
2.1. Blue Heaven
Specialty: Brunch
Price: $$ – $$$
Location: 729 Thomas Street
Website: blueheavenkw.com
Blue Heaven, established in 1992, is a Key West institution famous for its outstanding food and unique atmosphere. According to local historian Tom Hambright, Blue Heaven was once a site for cockfighting and gambling, adding to its colorful past. Enjoy al fresco dining under the palms, with chickens and cats adding to the ambiance.
Brunch here is a must, but be prepared for a wait. The menu features Caribbean-inspired dishes, and the live music enhances the experience. Dinner reservations are accepted, but brunch is first-come, first-served.
2.2. Latitudes at Sunset Key
Specialty: Fine dining with sunset views
Price: $$$$
Location: Sunset Key
Website: opalcollection.com
Latitudes offers a luxurious dining experience on Sunset Key, complete with gourmet cuisine and stunning sunset views. This restaurant has received numerous accolades, including recognition as one of the most romantic and scenic restaurants in America by Open Table and Food & Wine.
Enjoy locally sourced fish and tropical fruits for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. A five-minute ferry ride from Key West is included with your reservation. Reservations are essential and should be made well in advance.
2.3. Santiago’s Bodega
Specialty: Tapas
Price: $$ – $$$
Location: 207 Petronia Street
Website: santiagosbodega.com
Santiago’s Bodega is a beloved tapas restaurant, known for its sangria, fine wines, and delicious desserts. Food critic Sarah Miller recommends the avocado and pear salad, goat cheese-filled shrimp, and beef tenderloin.
It’s an ideal spot for group dining, allowing you to sample a variety of dishes. Reservations can be made on their website.
2.4. Cuban Coffee Queen
Specialty: Cuban coffee
Price: $
Location: Multiple locations
Website: cubancoffeequeen.com
Cuban Coffee Queen serves the best coffee in Key West, along with delicious Cuban breakfast and lunch options. The iced café con leche is a must-try.
This popular spot has multiple locations, including the original on Margaret Street, Clinton Square, and downtown Key West.
2.5. Louie’s Backyard
Specialty: Great food and sunset views
Price: $$$$
Location: 700 Waddell Avenue, near the Southernmost Point
Website: louiesbackyard.com
Louie’s Backyard offers fine dining with stunning ocean views, making it a perfect spot for sunset watching. The restaurant features indoor and outdoor seating across multiple levels. Chef Alice Waters praised Louie’s Backyard for its commitment to fresh, local ingredients.
2.6. Amigos Tortilla Bar
Specialty: Square tacos
Price: $
Location: 425 Greene Street, near Sloppy Joe’s and Duval Street
Website: amigostortillabar.com
Amigos Tortilla Bar is known for its affordable and delicious square tacos, burritos, and quesadillas. Food blogger Mike Johnson highlights their platter of three tacos (chicken, beef, and chorizo potatoes) as a standout dish.
This casual spot is open from noon until late, perfect for a quick and tasty meal.
2.7. La Grignote
Specialty: French bakery/brunch
Price: $$ – $$$
Location: 1211 Duval Street
Website: lagrignotecafebakery.com
La Grignote is a charming French bakery and brunch spot on Duval Street. The French toast, lobster benedict, and almond croissants are highly recommended.
Don’t miss the La Grignote Key Lime tart. Open for breakfast and lunch, this café offers a delightful and relaxed dining experience.
2.8. Conch Republic Seafood Company
Specialty: Cracked conch
Price: $$
Location: Historic Seaport
Website: conchrepublicseafood.com
Located in Key West’s Historic Seaport, Conch Republic Seafood Company is a tourist-friendly spot to try conch fritters and cracked conch. Although it can be touristy, it’s a reliable place to sample these local specialties.
2.9. Kermit’s Key West Key Lime Shoppe
Specialty: Chocolate-covered Key Lime Pie on a stick
Price: $
Location: Corner of Greene and Elizabeth Street, near the Historic Seaport
Website: keylimeshop.com
Kermit’s Key West Key Lime Shoppe is famous for its chocolate-covered Key Lime Pie on a stick. It’s a fun and touristy spot to indulge in this iconic dessert.
2.10. Café Marquesa
Specialty: Fine dining
Price: $$$$
Location: 600 Fleming Street, Marquesa Hotel
Website: marquesa.com/cafe-marquesa
Café Marquesa offers a top-notch dining experience, consistently earning high ratings from Zagat. The menu changes seasonally, featuring dishes like crispy pork Osso-Bucco and grilled Scottish salmon.
The attentive staff, excellent cocktails, and exquisite food make it a must-visit for fine dining enthusiasts.
2.11. Salute! On the Beach
Specialty: Italian food with Caribbean influences
Price: $$ – $$$
Location: Higgs Beach
Website: saluteonthebeach.com
Salute! On the Beach, run by the owners of Blue Heaven, features Italian cuisine with a Caribbean twist. Located right on Higgs Beach, it’s a great spot for lunch or dinner with a view. The mussels are particularly popular.
2.12. Garbo’s Grill
Specialty: Korean BBQ taco
Price: $
Location: 409 Caroline Street
Website: garbosgrillkw.com
Garbo’s Grill, a food truck parked at Hanks Hair of the Dog Saloon, is known for its Korean BBQ tacos, burritos, and poke bowls with Korean and Caribbean flavors.
Enjoy your meal with live music at Hanks, making it a fun and affordable dining option.
2.13. DJ’s Clam Shack
Specialty: Lobster rolls
Price: $$ – $$$
Location: 629 Duval Street
Website: djsclamshack.com
DJ’s Clam Shack gained fame from Guy Fieri’s Diners, Drive-Ins & Dives. Their lobster rolls, made with Maine lobster, are a signature dish.
They also serve steamed middle neck clams, clam strips, conch fritters, and mahi-mahi tacos.
2.14. Eaton Street Seafood Market & Restaurant
Specialty: Lobster rolls
Price: $$ – $$$
Location: 801 Eaton Street
Website: kwseafood.com
Eaton Street Seafood Market & Restaurant is highly recommended by locals for its lobster rolls. It’s also a great place to get stone crabs, Key West pink shrimp, and New England clam chowder.
2.15. Banana Café
Specialty: Breakfast and brunch
Price: $$ – $$$
Location: 1215 Duval Street
Website: bananacafekw.com
Banana Café, a French café on Duval Street, serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner. It’s known for its delicious Key Lime pie, drizzled with raspberry sauce.
It is a great option for those seeking breakfast options beyond the standard eggs, bacon, and potatoes.
2.16. El Siboney
Specialty: Authentic Cuban cuisine
Price: $$ – $$$
Location: 900 Caroline Street
Website: elsiboneyrestaurant.com
El Siboney offers authentic Cuban food in a small, unassuming setting away from Duval Street. The roast pork and garlic shrimp are highly recommended.
The Cuban Mix sandwich and Ropa Vieja also receive rave reviews.
2.17. Caroline’s Café
Specialty: Fish and Caribbean food
Price: $$ – $$$
Location: 310 Duval Street
Website: carolinescafe.com
Caroline’s Café, located on Duval Street, is always bustling with activity. It serves a variety of bar food and Caribbean dishes, including conch fritters and the famous fish sandwich. Its prime location makes it a convenient spot for a meal during bar hopping.
2.18. Bagatelle
Specialty: Fish and steak
Price: $$ – $$$
Location: 115 Duval Street
Website: bagatellekeywest.com
Bagatelle, situated in a historic building on Duval Street, offers fresh fish, steaks, and an extensive wine list. Enjoy happy hour from 9 am to 11:30 am and from 4 to 6 pm.
The Key Lime martini is a must-try. Reservations are recommended, especially for dinner.
2.19. Two Friends Patio Restaurant
Specialty: Bloody Mary
Price: $$ – $$$
Location: 512 Front Street
Website: twofriends.com
Two Friends Patio Restaurant, dating back to 1886, offers a historic dining experience with live music daily.
Their signature dish is the Bloody Mary, claimed to be the best in Key West.
2.20. Better than Sex – A Dessert Restaurant
Specialty: Dessert
Price: $$ – $$$
Location: 926 Simonton Street
Website: betterthansexdesserts.com
Better than Sex – A Dessert Restaurant provides a unique and intimate dessert experience. Indulge in decadent desserts with playfully suggestive names in a semi-private booth. The Peanut Butter Perversion is a popular choice.
3. Key West Restaurants Map
Use this map to locate the best restaurants in Key West! Click the icons for more information about each location. Save this map to your Google account for easy access during your visit.
4. Our Top Picks: Best Food In Key West
With so many great options, narrowing down the best can be tough. Here are our top eight favorite restaurants in Key West:
4.1. Blue Heaven
An essential Key West experience for first-time and repeat visitors. The atmosphere and food are unmatched.
4.2. Amigos
The best tacos and the best cheap eat in Key West.
4.3. Latitudes
Another essential Key West experience, offering fine dining with stunning sunset views. Reservations are a must!
4.4. Santiago’s Bodega
One of our best meals in Key West, perfect for sharing small plates and trying new foods.
4.5. La Grignote
Our favorite breakfast spot in Key West.
4.6. El Siboney
The spot to try authentic Cuban cuisine.
4.7. Café Marquesa
We had our best meal in Key West here and will be back again!
4.8. Cuban Coffee Queen
We love this place and visit multiple times every time we come to Key West.
5. Sunset Dining Spots in Key West
If you’re looking to enjoy a drink or a meal with an incredible sunset view, consider these restaurants:
- Latitudes
- Louie’s Backyard
- Bistro 245
Bistro 245, located next to Mallory Square, offers spectacular sunset views from its two levels of seating and outdoor patio.
6. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
6.1. What is Key West best known for regarding food?
Key West is famous for its Key Lime Pie, fresh seafood, and Cuban-influenced cuisine.
6.2. What are some must-try dishes in Key West?
Must-try dishes include Key Lime Pie, conch fritters, cracked conch, Key West pink shrimp, and lobster rolls.
6.3. Are there vegetarian or vegan options available in Key West restaurants?
Yes, many restaurants in Key West offer vegetarian and vegan options, with creative dishes featuring local produce and flavors.
6.4. What is the average cost of a meal in Key West?
The average cost of a meal in Key West can range from budget-friendly options under $15 to fine dining experiences costing $50 or more per person.
6.5. Do I need reservations for Key West restaurants?
While some restaurants operate on a first-come, first-served basis, it’s recommended to make reservations, especially for popular spots and fine dining establishments.
6.6. What is the best time to visit Key West for food lovers?
The best time to visit Key West for food lovers is during the shoulder seasons (spring and fall) when the weather is pleasant and the crowds are smaller.
6.7. Can I find gluten-free options in Key West restaurants?
Yes, many restaurants in Key West offer gluten-free options and are willing to accommodate dietary restrictions.
6.8. What are some popular local beverages to try in Key West?
Popular local beverages include Key Lime martinis, mojitos, and craft beers brewed in the Florida Keys.
6.9. Are there any food tours available in Key West?
Yes, several food tours are available in Key West, offering guided culinary experiences and insights into the local food scene.
6.10. What are some family-friendly restaurants in Key West?
Several family-friendly restaurants in Key West offer diverse menus and welcoming atmospheres, such as DJ’s Clam Shack, Caroline’s Café, and the Conch Republic Seafood Company.
We hope this guide helps you navigate the Best Food In Key West! If you have any questions or want to share your favorite spots, let us know in the comment section below.
For more in-depth culinary guides, recipes, and expert advice, be sure to visit FOODS.EDU.VN. We provide detailed information on ingredients, cooking techniques, and the history of various cuisines, catering to both amateur cooks and seasoned chefs.
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