Florida’s lobster season is officially open — and Key West is celebrating in delicious style. Lobster Best is a shellabration of all things spiny lobster, with mouthwatering menus at Key West restaurants, can’t-miss culinary events, and a vibrant artisan market full of flavor and flair.

Learn lobster prep and cooking from one of the best – Chef Paul Menta. He hosts two live cooking demonstrations at Key West Cooking School Aug. 9 and you get to savor all the flavors, along with craft rum cocktails. (Credit: Photo courtesy Paul Menta)

Special Lobster Culinary Events

  • Lobster Tails with Chef Paul Menta (Saturday, Aug. 9, 11 a.m. & 3 p.m.)
    Dive into award-winning lobster enchiladas and learn expert prep tips at the Key West Cooking School as daredevil chef and rum distiller Paul Menta presents two incredible cooking demonstrations Saturday, Aug. 9. Paired cocktails include a Hemingway daiquiri and Cuba Libre — plus rum cake, of course. Find tickets here.
  • Lost Kitchen’s Lobster Dinner (Aug.  9 & 10)
    Chef Martin Liz presents two decadent, family-style feasts featuring grilled Florida lobster in key lime garlic butter, lobster mac & cheese, stuffing, and more island indulgences. Find tickets here.

Lobster on the Menu

Savor the season as you feast on exclusive Florida lobster dishes at these island dining hotspots:

A & B Lobster House

Boat House Bar & Grill

Conch Republic Seafood Company

The Docks Restaurant & Raw Bar

Dj’s Clam Shack

Half Shell Raw Bar

Hogfish Bar & Grill

Kaya Island Eats

Lola’s Bistro

MisoHappy

Ocean Grill & Bar

Prime Steakhouse

Square Grouper Key West

Seaside Café & Bar