Key West Travel Guide

Seafood is king, queen and courtier here in the Keys, and no wonder. Fat lobsters, succulent clams, hefty tuna, shrimp, bass, grouper, pompano, swordfish, and of course conch are all fresh and delicious. Conch has been a long-standing resident of the toasty waters around these islands.

Key West

Key West is known for its amazing seafood and there are great restaurant all around the city. A & B Lobster House naturally serves some of the best lobster around. If you want oyster head to Alonzo's Oyster Bar. The trendy Nicola Seafood has a wide selection of seafood and a romantic atmosphere.

Chefs from Europe added some intriguing touches to it all and, voila, such award-winning restaurants as Pisces, Alice's Key West Restaurant and Louie's Backyard.

Cuban cigar makers who settled here generations ago and whose descendants remain brought their distinctive cuisine with them: picadillo, ground beef and raisins; thick, strong cubano coffee; and sweet, fried banana-like plantains. Bahamians, who have created a colorful Bahamian village right in the middle of Key West, brought their akee fish and rice, their rum and their pigeon peas. Try the flavors at Blue Heaven Restaurant and Caribe Soul.

If you an aficionado of Ernest Hemingway, a stop at Captain Tony's Saloon and Sloppy Joe's is required. Ernest Hemingway was said to frequent these bars.

Key Largo

Besides well-known restaurants scattered throughout the Keys, perhaps the most fun is stopping into some rustic little find and discovering a memorable meal you'll be discussing for many a day to come. Flamingo Seafood Bar and Grill is not well known, but services a delicious catch of the day. Gus' Grill is another laid back restaurant that serves seafood. For a party-friendly atmosphere the Alabama Jack's is the place to go.

Islamorada

You can taste the freshness of the seafood at Marker 88. If you want Cuban and Spanish food Manny & Isa's can't be beat. For a romantic dinner the Atlantic's Edge provides views of the ocean and a candlelight meal.

Bahia Honda and the Lower Keys

The Dining Room (The) is an elegant restaurant where you can dine on seafood. In the Lower Keys, you can find some well-known watering holes such as the rustic ambiance of No Name Pub.2008-08-02T07:29:22.000 584