Early August marks the start of the Florida Keys’ annual commercial lobster season -- so it's time to savor the sweet, clawless local lobsters in restaurants ranging from waterside seafood shacks to gourmet emporiums. Some foodies even design their own “lobster quest" to sample chefs’ crustacean creations at a variety of eateries from Key Largo to Key West.
Meet the celebrated chef behind some of the Florida Keys' most innovative cuisine: Andy Niedenthal, who has appeared on America's top food television shows, been praised by culinary icon Julia Child, and even cooked for a former president. Now he's the executive chef at Islamorada's Islander Resort, A Guy Harvey Outpost.
Florida Keys diners feast on local fish, shrimp, lobster and stone crab — often flavored with tropical fruits and spiced with influences from the island chain's rich melting-pot history. As well as fueling many local eateries’ success, this simply delicious cuisine has inspired culinary experiences from festivals to classes.
Diners can benefit the ocean environment by ordering lionfish at Keys restaurants, helping to decrease the invasive species' population and minimize its negative impacts. Delicate and delicious, the light white meat of the lionfish tastes much like snapper.
If you want to be mistaken for a Florida Keys resident — or at least a savvy regular visitor — don’t ever say “kontch.” The widely-used word “conch” is pronounced “konk" on the island chain that's proudly known as the Conch Republic.
What’s even better than sampling an amazing Key West meal prepared by a world-class chef? Sampling dishes prepared by more than 50 of the island’s culinary all-stars at the mouthwatering Taste of Key West.
When counting blessings in Key West, the list usually includes the year-round warm climate, genuinely caring community, “One Human Family” philosophy that promotes equality for all, lively arts and entertainment calendar, and beautiful natural surroundings -- but the Thanksgiving season provides a reason for some extra reflection and gratitude.
The lighthearted I Love Stock Island Festival celebrates the cheerfully rustic island's culture, heritage and working waterfront — with yummy culinary offerings featuring fresh-off-the-boat seafood, wine and beer tastings, history and art studio tours, watersports, live music, and much more.
At The Fish House and The Fish House Encore in Key Largo, diners can find fresh-off-the-boat fish, traditional Key lime pie and a warm and welcoming vibe — plus unique options like Encore's "dining in the dark" culinary adventures.
Attention, foodies! Key West, the sunny subtropical getaway known for its fantastic fresh fish and stunning seafood, is hosting its first-ever full-fledged restaurant month. It’s called WineDine KeyWest, and it takes place Sept. 16 through Oct. 16. And during the mouthwatering month, you can enjoy multicourse prix fixe meals at as many as 30 Key West restaurants.