Dining
Dining in the Florida Keys
The dining scene in the Florida Keys is vibrant and diverse. With it's unique blend of Caribbean, Latin American, and American influences, you can expect a wide array of delicious cuisine options that cater to all tastes and preferences.
Seafood is a highlight in the Keys, given it's proximity to the ocean. Freshly caught fish, shrimp, lobster and conch are staples on restaurant menu's throughout the Keys.
Cuban cuisine is particularly popular (we are closer to Cuba than we are to a Wal-Mart!), with traditional dishes such as rope veja, empanadas, and the famous Cuban sandwiches that are widely enjoyed by many tourists and locals alike. These are offered from many places throughout the island that we will include on our must try list below.
We are going to list some popular and well known places, but we are also going to mention some locals favorite hot spots that are less well known, but so worth taking a trip off the beaten path.
Latitudes Key West is a renowned restaurant located on the beautiful Sunset Key, a private island just off the coast of Key West, only accessible by boat. Don't worry, they have a free boat taxi that is only available with a reservation. And make sure to book in advance!
This waterfront restaurant offers an exquisite dining experience with breathtaking views of the ocean and stunning sunsets. The menu is carefully curated to offer a range of options from fresh seafood, succulent lobster, mouthwatering shrimp, and perfectly grilled fish. In addition to the delectable cuisine, Latitudes also boasts an extensive selection of fine wines & handcrafted cocktails that will surprise and please your pallet whether it's lunch or dinner.
Latitudes Key West is an experience you want to do at least once once on one of your visits to Key West. From the boat taxi to get there to the epic views of the ocean & sunset, it's definitely great dining experience to remember.
Sunset Deck is a bit of a Key West hidden gem. Many locals don't even know about it. It sits above Bistro 245 restaurant which is attached to Opal Key Resort. It has one of the best, if not THE best views of the sunset.
It is right above Mallory Square and overlooking Sunset Key where you can watch all the sunset charters coming in for the evening. And not to mention, great people watching! If you want to escape the crowds but still have some of the best views on the island, this is the place for you. It's only open during sunset time, so hours vary throughout the year. There is a full bar with seating, and lots of tables for dining.
You can order the full menu from Bistro 245, but we HIGHLY recommend trying the Lobster Quesadilla. It's incredible with a twist of mango salsa that will have you coming back for more!
Geiger Key Marina & Restaurant is located 10.5 Miles from Key West and is a hidden gem, just a short drive from anywhere in the lower Keys. This waterfront establishment offers a laid-back and rustic atmosphere, perfect for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of 'city' life.
The restaurant is situated on a marina, providing you with picturesque views of the water and a relaxed casual vibe.
The menu focuses on classic American flare with seafood twist. From fresh fish, to Key West Pinks shrimp to vegetarian dishes, there is something for everyone on the menu. The restaurant takes pride in using high quality ingredients sourced from local farms and suppliers whenever possible. Also keep a lookout for the live entertainment offered frequently throughout the week.
Abbondanza is a charming and cozy Italian restaurant located in Old Town Key West. It is our #1 favorite Italian spot on the island located in the heart of Old Town. This restaurant offers a warm & inviting atmosphere that is reminiscent of a traditional trattoria in the Italian countryside.
The menu at Abbondanza is a celebration of authentic Italian cuisine, featuring a variety of classic cuisine and a variety of classic dishes & prepared with love and care. From the mouthwatering pasta dishes and risottos to flavorful seafood & tender meats, each plate is crafted with the finest ingredients and traditional cooking techniques. In addition, they offer an impressive selection of Italian wines and handcrafted cocktails, sure to please any pallet.
The Breakfast Club Too is located in the center of Old Town Key West. They are only open for breakfast so make sure you wake up in time to get there and enjoy their variety of breakfast selections.
With indoor & outdoor seating, you can enjoy their totally awesome pancake charcuterie board with all the fixings and toppings galore! Truly a dining experience that is elevated but super comfortable at the same time. With menu offerings from a gigantic breakfast burrito stuffed with bacon, sausage or the vegetarian filling of your choice, to a delectable crab cake eggs benedict, the menu is sure to please everyone in your travel group.
It's known as 'The Best Piece in Town' for a reason! Angelina's Pizza is a daytime and late night Italian spot that is open until 4am (the website says 2am but it's 4am) every single day! It's centrally located right on Duval Street in the Ricks Complex. It's commonly known as the late night pizza spot that is sure to cure your drunk cravings!
You can order by the slice or a whole pie. Our recommendation is to add ricotta to your pizza, it's epic! Also, don't hesitate to try their awesome Italian subs and even their pasta offerings are quite good. Make sure to stop by on a late night out, you won't regret it!
The best taco truck in Key West. Well, technically Stock Island but still only 5 minutes (if that) from Key West. In our opinion, they are the best taco truck/Mexican in town.
They offer everything from tacos, burritos,and tostadas to classic Mexicans dishes. Make sure to try their fried Birria tacos that are only available certain times of the week. It's locals favorite that is not to be missed! You're welcome!!
Just 2 blocks from Key West's southernmost point and one block from world famous Duval Street, Milagro is run by a husband and wife duo with an award winning Executive Chef. They are committed to using local, fresh, quality ingredients to create inventive island cuisine and cocktails with a Latin flair.
Most everything is made from scratch to amplify these flavors. This attention to their menu and quality service are just one of the reasons that they have frequent locals who dine there throughout the year. Truly an elevated dining experience, with service to match!
Trust us when we say, Bob's Bunz is an essential breakfast/lunch/brunch spot to visit while you're in the Florida Keys. It's a favorite of the local's not just in Islamorada, but all of the Florida Keys.
Not only is it a great restaurant to dine at, it is also a bakery providing fresh cinnamon buns, muffins, cookies, pies, and even wedding cakes for the fabulous wedding's of the Florida Keys. Be sure to drop by and try their famous basted eggs. It's an experience to remember!
Just a few blocks off the famous Duval Street, Santiago's Bodega is a hidden gem that is a favorite of Key West locals and frequent visitors alike. Founded over 20 years ago, this is the voted the best Tapa's restaurant in Key West.
Make sure to try the bacon wrapped dates or the Roman meatballs, paired with their ever pleasing homemade sangria. And don't forget to make a reservation because this intimate setting fills up fast. A local's staple in Key West!
Located at Mile Marker 88 in the Florida Keys, Marker 88 has some of the most stunning views in the Keys. You can even sit in an oceanside rocking chair booth to enjoy the sunset while you dine on one of their delicious menu offerings.
Their fresh takes on seafood, steaks and pasta, down to their hand-crafted cocktails and craft beers earned them the 2022 Best of Islamorada Award in the Seafood Category and the 2022 OpenTable Diners’ Choice Award. Centrally located in the Florida Keys, Marker 88 is worth the visit whether you're staying in Islamorada, Key Largo or even Key West.
Hand's down one of our favorite views in the Florida Keys is at Hog Heaven Sports Bar & Grille. Make sure to dine outside for the stunning ocean views of Islamorada, and really all of the Florida Keys.
We highly recommend the brisket deviled eggs as an appetizer, and be sure to immerse yourself in the island lifestyle and try the conch fritters. If you have any room left, be sure to try any one of their Florida Keys famous BBQ dishes, it's all super scrumptious!
Located right at the famous 7 Mile Bridge, Sunset Grille & Raw bar is a great stop on your road trip through the Keys. The restaurant is huge, with multiple bars & dining areas to enjoy. It's a perfect place to catch the phenomenal sunsets of the Florida Keys while dining and having drinks.
They are open for breakfast, lunch and dinner offering a wide array of menu options for any pallet. As a fun bonus, there is a pool available for every patron of the restaurant if you feel the need to take a dip and cool off after a few cocktails oceanside. We highly recommend stopping by here for a meal or even a day of drinking, dining and lounging by the pool.
Located on the waterfront Historic Seaport in Key West, Bel Mare offers iconic views and coastal Italian Cuisine. With outdoor & indoor seating, you can't go wrong with the dining experience or the impressive menu offered.
They take pride in their amazing pasta dishes from Linguine with Clams to the rich & succulent Butternut Squash Ravioli. Make sure to try their most famous dish, the Prince Edward Island Mussels. Be careful not to overindulge in the favorite Mussels dish, it's hard not to eat too many!
As a newer restaurant in Key West, Bel Mare has become a staple as a local's favorite in a short amount of time.
Step into Hogfish Bar & Grill to experience the true Florida Keys experience. Fresh seafood, strong drinks and outdoor dining with panoramic waterfront views.
Here you will get the freshest local seafood straight from the boat to your plate! Be sure to try one of the visitor & locals favorites, the famous Hogfish Sandwich, blacked, fried or grilled. If you visit at the right time, you will catch some local artists playing live music while you dine and watch the sunset. A true island vibe to experience first hand!
Better Than Sex is a delectable dessert restaurant that will awaken your senses and create lasting memories. When you step inside you are transported to a world of sensual delights that go far beyond the ordinary.
The ambiance is seductive, with dim lighting, plush red seating and a touch of romance in the air. The menu is an exquisite compilation of decadent desserts that are designed to tantalize your taste buds and leave you wanting more. Each dessert is crafted to have rich flavors, textures and perfect presentation. The desserts are perfectly paired with a wide array of wines where the wine glasses are dipped in white, dark, milk chocolate or caramel drizzle.
A must do that is definitely an experience to remember. We recommend skipping dinner before you come here as you will need to save room for all the sexy desserts.