Key West is a food lover’s paradise, the blending spot of Cuban, Mexican, Caribbean, and American cuisine that brings you the boldest combinations and zesty flavors. Not a day will go by where you aren’t trying something bold and new. From classic cuban coffees and fresh fruit cocktails to street-style tacos and fusion style cuisine, you’re sure to experience all the flavors of Key West. There are a lot of recommendations online on the most popular restaurants to try during your stay, and we’ll admit, they’re all incredible. However, if you want to experience the island like a local, we’ve curated a list of a few hot-spots that may not be on the popular ‘top 10’ lists, but are absolutely worthy of experiencing.
Location: 425 Southard St Steps From Duval Street, Key West, FL 33040-6538
Hours: 11:00 AM - 11:00 PM
Food: Caribbean Latin Cuban
Around the corner from Marrero’s is a staff favorite - a local little joint that’s themed after the artist Frida Kahlo, it’s courtyard painted in colorful murals. This Cuban fusion restaurant is styled after 1930s Cuban street food, serving up burgers, sandwiches, and tacos. Share plates of fried plantains, homemade pastries, shakes, and signature sangria.
Location: 425 Greene Street Key West, FL 33040
Hours: Monday-Thursday noon - 10pm | Thursday-Sunday noon - 11pm
Food: Traditional Mexican Food
Home of the square tortilla, Amigos brings traditional Mexican street style tacos together with the vibrant style of key west. Bring your friends and share plates of pico de gallo, homemade salsas, guacamole, and seafood! Enjoy the most flavorful tacos on the island. The square tortilla you ask? It’s Amigos’ signature, made of 100% fresh ground corn and water - designed square to hold more fillings!
Location: 509 Southard St Key West, FL
Hours: Mon - Fri: 10am - 10pm | Sat & Sun: 9am - 10pm
Food: Vegan, Vegetarian, Pescatarian
Across from the very popular Cuban Coffee Queen location off of Duval Street is another staff favorite spot, The Cafe. Everyone will love the homemade cuisine of fresh ingredients, but especially anyone with food restrictions. The Cafe inspires everyone to eat their daily vegetables, with cravings to come back for more!
Location: 310 Duval St, Key West, Florida.
Hours: 11:30am-11pm
Food: Key West cuisine
With all the hot spots on Duval, Caroline’s Cafe is not to be missed! Enjoy the daily caught seafood and refreshing cocktails, all while people watching the bustling streets of Duval. Taste the best of what the island has to offer and try the Caribbean Streak or Blackened-Fish (for whatever the daily catch is). Caroline offers free local delivery.
Location: 420 Appelrouth Lane, Key West
Hours: Open Daily: 11:30am - Late
Food: American Bar Food
Known as the local’s favorite, Mary Ellen’s is Key West’s friendly neighborhood bar. Cool off in the AC and enjoy a cold beer while live music plays. Order up some classic americana inspired foods, like homemade grilled cheese, chicken wings, pizza, tater tots, and french fries. Both indoor and outdoor seating is available, with a grab & go window outside. Ordering in? Mary Ellens offers free delivery exclusively in old town.
Location: 407 Front St. (Rear) Key West, FL 33040
Hours: Mon-Fri 12pm-5pm | Sat & Sun 9am-til’ the party’s over!
Food: Beach Bar & Grill
Salty Frog is known for it’s breezy Key West vibes with a ‘Midwest neighborhood’ style atmosphere. Listen to live music play and you munch on conch fritters and a sample of local brews.
We hope this list give you inspiration for your next trip to Key West.
We look forward to hosting you when you stay with us. Thanks for reading,
The Marrero's Team
Traveling elsewhere in Florida? Visit our sister property in Treasure Island FL.
Remember to follow Marrero's on Instagram and Facebook, and tell us about your stay over at Trip Advisor. We look forward to hosting your next beach getaway!
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