There's a magic here you can't replicate. Maybe it's the unbeatable freshness of the catch, the Southern-meets-Caribbean charm of the island, or the fact that everyone from the kitchen to the tables radiates a kind of laid-back hospitality that only the Conch Republic can deliver. Whether you're perched at a picnic table outside DJ's Clam Shack, cracking into crab legs at the legendary Half Shell Raw Bar, or ordering another round of coconut shrimp at Hogfish Bar & Grill, Key West doesn't just serve seafood — it celebrates it. From local staples like Eaton Street Seafood Market to new gems like the Square Grouper, recently named the best new spot in town, this guide is your passport to the best bites in the Southernmost City. Buckle up, seafood lovers. Paradise is calling.
A&B Lobster House
700 Front St., Key West305-294-5880
aandblobsterhouse.comSince 1947, A&B Lobster House has been a Key West staple for reliable, always fresh, and delicious seafood. From escargot to fresh oysters to, of course, juicy Florida lobster tails and even Wagyu beef, this is the kind of spot you take if you're with the whole entire family, on a bachelor party trip, or with your significant other. There's even a wrap-around balcony outside to dine right by the water, and the service here is always top-notch. There's a reason why A&B Lobster House is synonymous with the Conch Republic.
B.O.'s Fish Wagon
801 Caroline St., Key West305-294-9272
bosfishwagon.comWarning: This spot is as wonky, off the beaten path, and rugged as it looks — and that's why it's so damn good. If you're looking for an old school Key West spot without all of the necessary frills (or touristy prices), then look no further than B.O's Fish Wagon. A few years back, I visited B.O.'s and truly had some of the best grouper and cracked conch I've ever had. Here, you simply order at the counter, have a seat, and the friendly servers bring your food straight to the table. You'll wish you had stopped by here sooner.
Conch Republic Seafood Company is one of the best seafood restaurants in Key West
Conch Republic Seafood Company photo
Conch Republic Seafood Company
631 Greene St., Key West305-294-4403
conchrepublicseafood.comOk, so this is one of the more "touristy" spots on the list, but it's popular for good reason. It's one of my favorite spots for food and drinks. Plus, the staff here are wonderful, fun, and friendly. Thanks to its location right on the historic seaport where boats unload their daily catch, the seafood is undeniably fresh, and the views are spectacular. Plus, with a laid-back vibe and signature dishes like conch ceviche and grilled Key West pink shrimp, it's a must-visit for seafood lovers.
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.
The Docks Restaurant + Raw Bar
6840 Front St., Key West
305-396-7049
thedocksstockisland.comWhen I went around asking my friends and readers, "Where do you go for seafood in Key West?" The Docks was a crowd favorite. What makes this spot so special is that they are literally connected to one of the best fisherman-seafood markets in the entire area, Keys Fresh Seafood Market. Therefore, each bite of fish you're eating at the Docks was pulled in fresh that day right by the fishermen just meters away. What kind of restaurant can you say that about? Although not on Duval Street or in the heart of Old Town, this spot is worth the little drive.
Eaton Street Seafood Market is one of the best seafood restaurants in Key West
Eaton Street Seafood Market photo
Eaton Street Seafood Market
801 Eaton St., Key West305-295-3474
kwseafood.comFounded by Andrea Morgan and Sean Seaman in 2007, Eaton Street Seafood Market has become a beloved Key West staple thanks to its unwavering commitment to supporting local fishermen and offering only the freshest, locally caught seafood. From pink shrimp and yellowtail snapper to grouper and stone crab, every bite reflects their mission to preserve the island’s fishing heritage. The market's dedication to quality and flavor has made it a must-visit for anyone craving an authentic taste of Key West. You truly can't leave Key West without sampling some of their fresh catch of the day.
Half Shell Raw Bar
231 Margaret St., Key West305-294-7496
halfshellrawbar.comHalf Shell Raw Bar is a legendary Key West seafood spot known for its laid-back vibe, harborfront views, and award-winning dishes like conch ceviche and broiled garlic oysters. As the island’s original seafood restaurant, it’s earned accolades year after year for serving fresh, flavorful classics in a no-frills, old-school setting. With pelicans soaring by and the Key West sunset as your backdrop, every meal here feels like a slice of paradise.
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.
Red Shoe Island Bistro is one of the best seafood restaurants in Key West
Red Shoe Island Bistro photo
Red Shoe Island Bistro
411 Petronia St., Key West305-509-7271
instagram.com/redshoeislandbistroRed Shoe Island Bistro is a true hidden gem in Key West. It's tiny, intimate, and perfect for date night. Locals love the lobster profiteroles and fresh Key West shrimp. With cozy vibes and a creative seafood menu, it's a must-try off the beaten path.
Square Grouper
920 Caroline St., Key West305-292-1975
squaregrouperkeywest.comThis spot might be the most popular restaurant in all of Key West right now, and for good reason. The original Square Grouper Bar and Grill opened on Cudjoe Key, Florida, at mile marker 22.5 oceanside, and was such a hit that it's made its way down to the Conch Republic. It's a true standout for its seafood, like blackened fish and melt‑in‑your‑mouth conch, plus it has a vibrant waterfront atmosphere and top‑notch service. Just this past week, Square Grouper proudly clinched both "Best Overall Restaurant" and "Best Lunch" honors at the Keys Weekly Bubba Awards. Add it to your list this year for sure.
Thirsty Mermaid
521 Fleming St., Key West305-204-4828
thirstymermaidkeywest.comIf you're looking for fresh oysters, look no further than this restaurant that's a true hidden gem in Key West. This cozy, off‑Duval gem is where seafood shines, like fresh local catch and a daily‑rotating oyster selection that feels more intimate and refined than the typical tourist spots. Some of the standout dishes include oysters Rockefeller, fried oysters, snapper, and scallops, all served with super-friendly service. It's run by the same people behind The Docks and Little Pearl. No wonder why it's so wonderful.
