Dining in Key West means dining with oceanfront views in breezy settings with food that reflects the flavors of this paradise. Here, you’ll find upscale hotspots, iconic eateries, and hidden local gems that give Key West’s dining scene variety. Whether you’re a year-round resident or a vacation homeowner, a great dining experience is always within reach.
Fine Dining: Where Taste Meets Elegance
Key West restaurants offer upscale dining that blends luxury with island charm, perfect for entertaining guests or enjoying a refined night out.
Café Solé
Away from the crowds, Café Solé has been a local favorite since 1995. Chef John Correa combines French techniques with fresh, locally caught seafood to create standout dishes like Mutton Snapper in pesto champagne and Yellowtail in lobster beurre blanc. With a cozy garden setting and a menu full of flavor, it’s a dining spot for those who appreciate timeless elegance.
Café Marquesa
This establishment pairs an intimate ambiance with contemporary American cuisine. With just 50 seats and an open kitchen, Café Marquesa serves dishes like Seared Brioche-Dusted Yellowfin Tuna and Goat Cheese & Pistachio Crusted Rack of Lamb. A true gem for those who value elegance and exclusivity.
Little Pearl
This establishment in Old Town has a reputation for creative seafood dishes enjoyed in an intimate wine bar setting. Little Pearl focuses on fresh, local ingredients and inventive tropical twists, making it a go-to for foodies looking for something unique. Whether you’re enjoying a quiet dinner or celebrating with friends, it delivers a refined yet relaxed dining experience.
Iconic Local Eats: Flavor with a Key West Twist
The best restaurants in Key West reflect the island’s rich history, vibrant community, and laid-back charm. These iconic local spots serve unforgettable flavors that define the Key West lifestyle.
Square Grouper
Delivering an elevated island dining experience, Square Grouper has a refined take on local seafood in a welcoming, stylish setting. Since opening in 2003, it has earned a loyal following for innovative dishes crafted from fresh, locally sourced ingredients. With seamless service and a polished ambiance, it’s a favorite for both longtime residents and visitors looking for the authentic flavor of the island.
Blue Heaven
In Bahama Village, you’ll find Blue Heaven, a fun outdoor eatery offering Floridian-Caribbean fusion and live music. Its whimsical setting, complete with hanging coconuts and sailcloth shade, is made even more delightful once you sample the excellent food. From Jamaican Jerk
Chicken to Caribbean Shrimp and that mile-high Key Lime Pie, this spot is a flavorful journey into the island’s heart and soul.
El Siboney
For authentic Cuban cuisine in a cozy, no-frills setting, try El Siboney. A family-run favorite since 1984, it’s loved for dishes like Paella, Ropa Vieja, and house-made sangria. The welcoming, home-style feel and consistently delicious meals have earned it a reputation as one of the best places to go for food in Key West.
Santiago’s Bodega
Step inside Santiago’s Bodega and discover a warm yet vibrant space where tapas, boozy brunches, and craft cocktails set the mood for unforgettable evenings. This beloved neighborhood spot blends global flavors and intimate charm.
Hidden Gems Locals Swear By
For those looking for authenticity over polish, Key West’s hidden gems are where locals eat and where new homeowners can quickly feel at home.
Garbo’s Grill
Located at Hank’s Saloon, Garbo’s Grill looks like a humble food truck but delivers big flavor with a creative twist. Run by a husband-and-wife team, this island favorite has gained national attention for its inventive tacos, burritos, and burgers, crafted with love and served with a smile. Grab a table, catch some live music, and savor the no-frills, high-reward vibe that makes Garbo’s a Key West legend.
Atlas Izakaya
Just off Duval Street, Atlas Izakaya brings Japanese-style small plates to the heart of historic Key West. With an open kitchen, you’ll be able to see your food being prepared from a menu that features local seafood, sushi, bao buns, and flavorful vegetable dishes. Try something different or satisfy a craving for your favorite Japanese meals.
Dining with a View: Waterfront and Sunset Spots
Food in Key West celebrates the Keys’ culture and vibrancy
Day or night, it’s a pleasure to have a meal by the water
In Key West, the best meals come with a side of sea breeze. For second-homeowners who love to entertain or enjoy romantic evenings by the water, these are some of the best places to eat in Key West, offering the perfect blend of flavor and unforgettable scenery.
Latitudes
Set on the shores of Sunset Key, Latitudes offers an upscale beachfront dining experience. With sweeping views of the Gulf of Mexico, an elegant open-air ambiance, and a menu featuring fresh local seafood and perfectly grilled steaks, it’s a top pick for celebrating life’s finer moments. Arrive by ferry and indulge in a sunset dinner that feels like a mini-vacation.
Louie’s Backyard
A well-loved establishment, Louie’s Backyard is renowned for its oceanfront decks, inventive island fare, and tranquil setting. You can opt for indoor elegance or breezy outdoor seating; every table offers views of the shimmering Atlantic. From Shrimp and Grits to locally inspired cocktails at The Afterdeck, this spot pairs gourmet dining with Key West’s natural beauty.
Salute! On The Beach
Located on Higgs Beach, Salute! On The Beach is a beachside café that serves Caribbean-inflected Italian cuisine in a laid-back, scenic setting. Backed by the culinary reputation of sister restaurant Blue Heaven, it’s perfect for a post-swim lunch, sunset dinner, or relaxed evening with friends. Think fresh seafood, house-baked breads, and Key West’s unbeatable beach vibes.
From Market to Table: Food Lovers, Farmers & Fresh Catches
For homeowners who love cooking at home or exploring local flavors, the island offers a bounty of farm-to-table and dock-to-dinner convenience.
Take strolls through the Key West Farmers Market at Truman Waterfront Park, where you’ll find tropical fruits, artisan breads, and small-batch spices. Enjoy daily trips to the local fish markets for just-caught mahi-mahi, snapper, or lobster.
Many of Key West’s top chefs embrace the island’s farm-to-fork philosophy, inspiring a community where residents can eat well whether they’re dining out or staying in. It’s a lifestyle that makes everyday meals feel like a special occasion, and one more reason why living here tastes so good.
Savor the Key West Lifestyle
Key West dining is all about flavor and connection. If you’re ready to make this vibrant island your home or invest in a slice of paradise, trust a local expert who knows it intimately.
Contact Paige Bethel of Island Home Realty at 305.395.0550 or email her to begin your Key West real estate journey. Born and raised in Key West, Paige blends deep local insight with unmatched professional expertise to help you find your perfect island property.