Key West's dining options range from a vintage trolley pizzeria with a wood-fired brick oven to a lovely eatery on a secluded island with spectacular views of the Gulf of Mexico. The city is well known for its over-the-top fresh seafood and delicious island-influenced cuisine — as well as stellar eateries showcasing cuisines from around the world.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Melted butter is optional, but you should definitely bring a hearty appetite (and possibly a bib!) to the 20th annual Key West Lobsterfest. Yes, the eagerly anticipated crustacean celebration is coming up soon — and as always, it features a mouthwatering schedule of events.
If you’re a fan of fine beers, ales, rums and more, you’re sure to enjoy unique libations created in the Florida Keys.
A comprehensive photo shoot that's wrapping up in Key West captures images of members of the local LGBT community — real people, not professional models — enjoying life in the subtropical island paradise.