Where to Eat in Key West | 8 Best Restaurants Worth Every Bite
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Where to eat in Key West? I’ll admit, I start planning where to eat as soon as I book a trip.
If you’re planning a trip to Key West, the biggest mistake isn’t missing an attraction; it’s wasting a meal. With hundreds of restaurants packed into a small island, it’s easy to end up at a tourist trap instead of a place you’ll still be talking about after your vacation.
Where to eat in Key West
This guide highlights the best places to eat in Key West, from fresh seafood and Cuban favorites to waterfront dining and famous Key lime pie.
Hemingway frequented Sloppy Joe’s bar in the 1930’s, when it was located where Captain Tony’s now resides. In fact, they claim that Hemingway was the one who coined the name “Sloppy Joe’s.” It also gets a shout-out in the movie “Citizen Kane.” Today, they still serve up live music and frozen rum-laced drinks to tourists looking to have a good time, Hemingway-style.
Another historic Key West dive, the Green Parrot has been boozing up its patrons since 1890. This is more of a local joint, with strong, cheap drinks, rocking live music, and a lower-key crowd.
Tips for Eating in Key West
- Make dinner reservations several weeks ahead during winter and spring.
- Visit popular breakfast spots before 9:00 a.m.
- Seafood is freshest when local catches are available.
- Try at least one Cuban restaurant during your visit.
- Don’t leave without eating authentic Key lime pie.
El Meson De Pepe’s Restaurant & Bar
Blue Heaven
Blue Heaven is one of the island’s most recognizable restaurants. The open-air courtyard, roaming chickens, live music, and towering slices of Key lime pie make it a favorite for visitors.
What to order:
- Eggs Benedict
- Banana pancakes
- Key lime pie
- Fresh seafood specials
Best for: Breakfast and brunch.
Where to Eat in Key West – Latitudes
Latitudes sits on Sunset Key and offers one of the most memorable dining experiences in the Florida Keys. You’ll arrive by ferry before enjoying ocean views and fresh coastal cuisine.
Make reservations as soon as possible, as the tables during sunset book weeks in advance.
Don’t miss:
- Lobster bisque
- Fresh catch of the day
- Filet mignon
- Sunset reservations
Best for: Anniversary dinners and special occasions.
El Siboney
El Siboney is where many locals go when they’re craving authentic Cuban food.
Generous portions, reasonable prices, and homemade flavors have made this restaurant a longtime island favorite.
Try:
- Roast pork
- Cuban sandwich
- Yellow rice
- Black beans
- Flan
Best for: Authentic Cuban cuisine.
Where to Eat in Key West – DJ’s Clam Shack
DJ’s Clam Shack may be small, but the seafood is anything but ordinary.
Many visitors say the lobster roll alone is worth a return trip to Key West.
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Order:
- Lobster roll
- Conch fritters
- Fried shrimp
- Fish tacos
Best for: Casual seafood.
Hogfish Bar & Grill
Hogfish Bar & Grill is just outside Key West and feels like old Florida before the crowds arrive.
The waterfront setting is relaxed, and the seafood is consistently excellent.
Favorites include:
- Hogfish sandwich
- Peel-and-eat shrimp
- Smoked fish dip
Where to Eat in Key West – Half Shell Raw Bar
Half Shell Raw Bar has been serving seafood on the historic waterfront for decades.
It’s a great stop if you’re looking for oysters, shrimp, and a laid-back atmosphere.
Popular choices:
- Raw oysters
- Stone crab (seasonal)
- Peel-and-eat shrimp
Key Lime Pie
There is no shortage of places to get the famous key lime pie. Every restaurant and bakery offers it. I’m not complaining. On my first visit, I was on a mission to try as many key lime desserts as I could in a 3-day trip: The 6 Best Key Lime Pies in Key West, Florida.
Kermit’s Key Lime Shoppe
Kermit’s Key Lime Shoppe is the place many visitors choose for dessert. Located on 200 Elizabeth St, Kermit’s is an iconic staple famous for its tart flavor, authentic ingredients, and fun specialties like frozen pie on a stick.
You’ll find:
- Classic Key lime pie (my recipe)
- Chocolate-dipped frozen Key lime pie bars
- Key lime cookies
- Key lime candies
In addition to my recreation of the classic Key Lime Pie, I have shared Key Lime Pound Cake, Key Lime Cake with Key Lime Cream Cheese Frosting, and Key Lime Pie Sheet Cake.
Where to Eat in Key West by Category
| Looking For | Restaurant |
|---|---|
| Best Breakfast | Blue Heaven |
| Waterfront Dining | Latitudes |
| Cuban Food | El Siboney |
| Seafood | DJ’s Clam Shack |
| Local Favorite | Hogfish Bar & Grill |
| Oysters | Half Shell Raw Bar |
| Cuban Food | El Meson De Pepe’s Restaurant & Bar |
| Key Lime Pie | Kermit’s Key Lime Shoppe |
Where to Eat in Key West: Frequently Asked Questions
Blue Heaven is one of the island’s best-known restaurants thanks to its unique atmosphere, outdoor dining, and famous Key lime pie.
Many locals recommend El Siboney, Hogfish Bar & Grill, Half Shell Raw Bar, and Garbo’s Grill.
Fresh seafood, stone crab (seasonal), Cuban sandwiches, conch fritters, pink shrimp, lobster, and Key lime pie are among the island’s signature dishes.
There are options for every budget. Casual seafood shacks and Cuban restaurants offer affordable meals, while waterfront fine dining costs more.