Key West restaurants, bistros, cafes, eateries, bars and grills are a large part of what makes the night life here so amazing. Often, these places are the beginning of our famous tropical nights out. We have places on and off the beaten path for everyone to enjoy. This page will lead its readers to all the locals spots and the tourist favorites.
Here are my latest Key West restaurant reviews.
Some new, some updated, all are my honest opinions.
See All My Reviews Here
I have known about Red Shoe Island Bistro for awhile, but I typically avoid going downtown during busy season because parking and reservations can be difficult. So, with the season starting to slow a bit, my husband and I along with our friends Lisa and Jason decided to try it
Chico’s Cantina, located at 5230 US HWY 1 on Stock Island serves traditional Mexican fare at reasonable rates. It is a regular spot for Key West locals to gather for lunch or dinner. The casual setting offers both indoor and outdoor seating. I myself eat here often, usually for a
UPDATE Unfortunately, lunch at White Street Pizza did not take off as expected, so they are no longer serving lunch. And while you will miss those delectable sandwiches that they served, dinner is still available with many great choices! We actually dined there last evening and ordered a caesar salad,
Recently opened at the Opal Key West Resort & Marina, Lolita’s Coastal Cocina menu is filled with Mexican fare and handcrafted cocktails. And, a full tequila and mezcal menu also makes this a wonderful place to just grab a cocktail and watch the sun set over Mallory Square. My husband
There are many reasons to visit Key West. Did you know that one of the most popular reasons is for our restaurants and island dining? There are over 200 restaurants in Key West. Yes, 200. For a 2×4 mile island that seems like a lot. So, it goes without saying that Key West is a place for foodies. Here in Key West there are some truly amazing restaurants to tantalize your taste buds and experience great atmosphere with some amazing service. From the eclectic to the ordinary and everything in between, Key West has an amazing assortment of great places to eat. You will find both fine dining restaurants and laid back bars on the water where you can enjoy a spectacular view. Many enjoy the best little eateries on quiet, hidden lanes all over the island. Part of the fun for me is hunting around and finding these hidden culinary treasures.
I really enjoy eating out and I love sharing my experiences. So, I write about many Key West restaurants in my Blog –
Key West Restaurant Reviews
It’s easy to find American fare like burgers and bar food as well as BBQ joints. But, there are also places unique to Key West and the islands. We have Cuban and Bahamian influences that make Keys Cuisine both interesting and delicious. Roast pork and picadillo are two of my favorite Cuban dishes. For those looking for a little more spice, Caribbean jerk seafood or chicken and coconut based soups will delight your palate. Don’t forget Key West is the fishing capital of the world, so foodies can count on the best in fresh seafood restaurants as well. Hogfish and Key West pink shrimp are just two locally caught things that are a must try for anyone visiting Key West. Add all that to Asian cuisine for some amazing sushi, Chinese and Thai food.
With the exception of one off special events, one thing is for sure, that when dining on the island; whether the establishment is fancy or the most casual of spots, flip flops, tropical shirt and shorts are pretty much the attire anywhere. Unless you feel like primping, that is. How cool is that?
We have restaurants everywhere in Key West. Some downtown and others might be up the road a bit. In town, especially down town, parking can be a hassle and all of our restaurants have alcohol. Trust me, take an Uber, it’s easier. After a good meal walk around on Duval Street and enjoy the island night life at one of the many bars that line the street entertaining their patrons with live music and drinks.
Some of the other places I write about and reccomend are in the Lower Florida Keys and Stock Island. A car or maybe a golf cart is helpful as parking is typically easier away from down town Key West.
Pro Tip: Key West is 2×4 miles in size. If you are staying on the island, don’t rent a car unless you plan on going up the Keys to explore. A golf cart or moped, even a bicycle are the best solution for transportation on island. Uber can affordably get you anywhere on Stock Island if you find a favorite place to eat such as The Docks or El Siboney.
I’m Island Genn. Since 2002 I have been helping folks plan the perfect Key West vacations. With my background in hotel and restaurant management and my Italian heritage, it’s no wonder I appreciate great food.
While I also love to cook, it is always nice trying something that I would not normally make at home, or perhaps get a fresh idea for something that I do make. There are so many things that are really common to Key West but not other parts of the country or the world. So, try key lime pie or some other traditional island fare here and recreate your version at home! You can also check out some of my recipes that I share so that you can enjoy the taste of Key West from home.
With so many dining options and so many different dining preferences from cuisine type to atmosphere, I try and touch on it all for my readers. And as much as it costs to go out to eat these days, I feel that a person should know what to expect before they go. Especially when you are on vacation and want positive, memorable experiences to carry home with you. So, I hope you find this blog helpful in planning your Key West vacation.