Yes, Miami is a culinary powerhouse. You can eat your way around the world here without ever leaving the 305. From omakase restaurants making sushi with fish flown in from Japan to world-renowned Cuban restaurants frying up mouth-gasmic croquetas, we've got it all. But take one drive down the beautiful Overseas Highway and the Seven Mile Bridge, and you'll discover something magical waiting at the very end: seafood that's so fresh, flavorful, and soulful, it makes even our best bites feel a little... well, second best.
You could jet off to Turks and Caicos, splurge on St. Barts, or island-hop through the Bahamas, but I promise you, none of them match the laid-back magic and culinary treasure trove that is Key West. It's the kind of place where you're guaranteed to eat something delicious, no matter which quirky little restaurant or shack you stumble into after a day of day drinking piña coladas on Duval Street.
Whether it's the upscale yet welcoming Café Marquesa, tucked inside a historic conch-style hotel in Old Town, or the bohemian charm of Blue Heaven, where the banana pancakes are legendary and even the roosters get in on the live music, Key West delivers unforgettable bites with a side of island soul.
So, after years of sun-soaked visits and too many key lime pies to count (the ones dipped in chocolate on a stick from Kermit's are my favorite), I've rounded up my 11 favorite restaurants in Key West. Consider this your insider's guide from someone who's happily eaten at every single one of them. Now, let's dive in.
Banana Cafe is one of the best restaurants in Key West. The "Florida Lobster Eggs Benedict" is a must.
Photo by Nicole Lopez-Alvar
Banana Cafe
1215 Duval St., Key West305-294-7227
bananacafekw.com Walking toward the charming light yellow Banana Cafe in Key West, you already know you'll be in for a treat. Located in Old Town just across from Bahama Village, this delightful lil' gem is known for its friendly feel and French-inspired cuisine, including absolutely delicious crêpes ranging from breakfast and savory to dessert (please order the "Inside Out French Benedict" made with egg spread, ham, swiss, herbs, sweet caramelized onions, and a ridiculously good key lime hollandaise). Its Benedicts are just as delicious, including the "Florida Lobster Eggs Benedict" made with butter-poached Florida lobster, poached eggs, and avocado covered in that same delicious housemade key lime hollandaise. Need I say more?
Blue Heaven
729 Thomas St., Key West305-296-8666
blueheavenkw.comThe spot I recommend time and time again that's truly a "must?" It's this right here. Blue Heaven is *the* quintessential breakfast and brunch spot in Key West. So much so that you should wake up, grab a coffee, and run over as early as possible to put your name on the waitlist — it's so worth it. From their delicious Key West shrimp eggs Benedict to the fluffy, rich, and perfect banana walnut pancakes and sky-high Key lime pie, this restaurant is one of a kind. But it's not just about the food. Throw in groovy live music, funky outdoor seating, and a chill island vibe all around the historic property, and you've got a breakfast or dinner experience you'll be dreaming about long after you leave (trust me).
Café Marquesa, located at the Marquesa Hotel, is one of the best restaurants in Key West
Photo by Nicole Lopez-Alvar
Café Marquesa
600 Fleming St., Key West305-292-1244
marquesa.com/cafe-marquesa Café Marquesa is the perfect mix of upscale dining and classic Key West island charm — it's truly one of my favorite spots for a double date or intimate dinner on the island. Every dish, from their perfectly seared seafood to rich, flavor-packed entrees like crispy duck breast, is delicious. Plus, their service is top-notch and every dish is presented beautifully. If you're looking for fine dining in Key West, look no further.
DJ's Clam Shack
629 Duval St., Key West305-294-0102
djsclamshack.comA local favorite even loved by Food Network's Guy Fieri, DJ's is a must-visit for lunch or a mouth-watering snack during your trip to Key West. DJ’s Clam Shack is a must-visit in Key West, serving up insanely good coconut shrimp and one of the best Maine lobster rolls you’ll find in town. Plus, the Key West beachy shack (it's totally outdoor and grungy) makes it a one-of-a-kind spot you can only find in the Conch Republic (Key West).
Hogfish Bar & Grill
6810 Front St., Stock Island305-293-4041
hogfishbar.comOkay, so this one requires a car, Uber, or bicycle to get to, but trust me — it's worth the drive. Hogfish Bar & Grill is a hidden gem in Key West, serving up insanely fresh seafood in a laid-back waterfront setting. Their signature hogfish sandwich is insanely good, as are the "Killer Tuna Nachos," lobster bisque, coconut shrimp...everything here tastes like it came straight off the boat. It's that fresh. With friendly service and ice-cold drinks, this spot captures the true, no-frills island vibe that makes Key West (and Stock Island right next door) so special.
Little Pearl
632 Olivia St., Key West305204-4762
littlepearlkeywest.comThis quaint, little eatery and wine bar feels like it should be Michelin-rated. It's a rare gem in Key West with exceptional service, and the four-course, prix-fixe tasting menu changes every six weeks and is always an absolute delight. While there are no cocktails or beer on the menu, the wine pairing is perfect, so they won't be missed. This spot is for those who want a truly intimate and gourmet experience on the island and have a knack for adventurous dining.
Lola's Bistro
728 Simonton St., Key West305-204-4457
instagram.com/lolas_keywestThis tiny bring-your-own-booze (bring a great bottle of wine) bistro serves upscale comfort food in one of the most intimate and romantic dining rooms in Key West. Owned by Melanie Kozick, the spot is magical and relaxing and has an ever-changing a la carte menu crafted daily, so walking in feels like dining at a friend's home (who happens to be a chef), and you're in the living room. It's truly a hidden gem, and I couldn't recommend it enough.
Louie's Backyard
700 Waddell Ave., Key West305-294-1061
louiesbackyard.comLouie’s Backyard is one of the most scenic fine dining restaurants in Key West because of its stunning oceanfront location. Besides the romantic waterfront setting surrounded by trees and bistro lights under the stars, the menu features delicious Caribbean-American food made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients like the sautéed Gulf shrimp with bacon, mushrooms, and stoneground grits — delicious.
Moondog Cafe
823 Whitehead St., Key West305-741-7699
moondogcafe.comMoondog Cafe is one of the most classic breakfast spots in Key West because of its charming, laidback atmosphere and great location near the Southernmost Point and the Ernest Hemingway House. Don't skip out on their array of delicious baked goods and pastries, including flaky croissants and divine cinnamon rolls. With its charming outdoor patio and friendly service, it's a Key West must.
Nine One Five is one of my favorite dinner restaurants in Key West. Please order the "Soul Mama Seafood Soup" made with Key West pink shrimp, clams, local fish, and a delicious mild Thai green curry
Photo by Nicole Lopez-Alvar
Nine One Five
915 Duval St., Key West305-296-0669
915duval.comNine One Five is pure Key West magic, and besides Blue Heaven, it's my second most recommended spot in Key West. Not only is dinner here absolutely delicious (please order the "Soul Mama Seafood Soup" made with Key West pink shrimp, clams, local fish, and a delicious mild Thai green curry), but it's located in a charming conch-style house that has the perfect second-floor terrace and outdoor patio for people-watching on Duval Street. Other must-tries for dinner are the ravioli, burrata served with apple slices and compote, and bacon-wrapped dates. Plus, they serve great cocktails.
Hot Tin Roof
0 Duval St., Key West305-295-7057
oceankey.com/key-west-restaurantLoctated in one of my favorite hotels in Key West, Ocean Key Resort & Spa, this is one of the few Key West restaurants that faces the ocean, so, if you come for dinner try to plan it around the sunset — it's magical. But beyond the setting, I love the service here, and the dishes are just as beautiful as they are delicious. Brunch here is also a must (please order a malted waffle and thank me later).
Cuban Coffee Queen is the perfect spot for a mid-day cafe con leche and a Cuban sandwich
Photo by Nicole Lopez-Alvar
Bonus Spots:
- Bagatelle (great for bachelorettes/bachelor parties. Always solid)
- Cuban Coffee Queen (perfect Cubano and cafecito pick-me-up before hitting more bars on Duval Street)
- Latitudes (if you wanna propose, but it'll take a ferry ride to get there — so don't drop the ring in the ocean)
- The Lobster Shack (one of the best lobster rolls in town and located near the Southernmost Point "90 Miles to Cuba" landmark)
Bonus Photos:
The incredible key lime pie from Blue Heaven in Key West is a merengue-lovers dream.
Photo by Nicole Lopez-Alvar
The French toast from Hot Tin Roof.
You're welcome.
