Florida
Discover the Culinary Side of The Florida Keys
By Craig Silva
The Lower Keys: Hidden Gems and Local Traditions
There’s a chilled vibe here. Walking into No Name Pub is an experience in itself. Dollar bills cover nearly every available surface, creating a one-of-a-kind atmosphere. While the décor draws attention, the pizza keeps people coming back.
Key West: Historic Flavours at the End of the Road
By the time you reach Key West, dining feels like the culmination of the entire journey. At the Michelin-recognized Blue Heaven, wandering roosters roam through a leafy courtyard while guests linger over Caribbean-inspired dishes. Breakfast is legendary, and the towering slice of Key Lime Pie remains one of the island’s most iconic treats.
Together, they tell the story of a place where each stop brings its own taste, tradition and reason to savour the trip long after it ends, one unforgettable bite at a time.
In The Florida Keys & Key West, the first thing you notice is how life seems to slow down with the tide. Boats drift into marinas carrying the day’s catch, palm trees sway above waterfront patios, and the scent of grilled seafood mingles with the salty ocean air. For Canadian travellers dreaming of escaping winter’s chill, the islands offer more than just sunshine and turquoise water. Dining in The Keys is woven into the experience itself, revealing the character, history, and flavour of each community from Key Largo to Key West, mile by mile.
Key Largo: Fresh Catches and Oceanfront Classics
At the northern gateway to The Keys, seafood takes centre stage. A meal at Snappers Oceanfront Restaurant & Bar feels quintessentially Keys, with tables overlooking the water and fishing boats passing by. Snapper’s Famous Blue Crab Cakes arrive packed with sweet crab, while the Blackened Mahi Bites deliver just enough spice to complement the fresh fish. For a true seafood feast, The Captain’s Platter brings together several local favourites on one plate.
Islamorada: Elevated Island Flavours
As the Overseas Highway winds south, Islamorada introduces a more refined side of Keys dining without losing its laid-back charm. At Marker 88, waterfront views are paired with expertly prepared mahi mahi, grouper, and snapper. The raw bar is particularly tempting when enjoyed beneath swaying palms as the sun sets.
Marathon: Seafood with Local Character
Marathon balances working fishing culture with memorable dining experiences. At Castaway Waterfront Restaurant & Sushi Bar, the raw bar attracts seafood enthusiasts, but many visitors arrive specifically for the Lobster Enchiladas. The combination may sound unexpected, yet it perfectly captures the playful spirit of Keys cuisine.
TRAVEL PLANNER
Discover more delicious stops across The Florida Keys & Key West at visitfloridakeys.com
