As you walk through the charming streets of Key West, you can’t help but be captivated by colorful architecture and lively sounds of energetic Cuban music. It’s an experience that opens your eyes to the Cuban influence in Florida. Key West is home to several fantastic Cuban restaurants guaranteed to give you a Key West experience with a Cuban twist.
Join us as we uncover some of the most authentic Cuban restaurants in Key West, where delicious food and cultural experiences collide. Discover the best places to stay in Key West while on your culinary adventure.
Cuban Culture In Key West
The city’s unique bond with Cuba, stemming from their proximity, has fostered a deep intertwining of traditions and heritage. Many Cuban immigrants and their descendants have found a welcoming home in Key West, where they’ve brought with them the richness of their culture.
The lively beats of Cuban music fill the air, echoing the rhythms of Havana’s streets. Cuban-inspired art pieces created by local artists are displayed in galleries throughout the city. And let’s remember the lively festivals that fill Key West’s calendar, blending Cuban zest with local flair in a delightful celebration of diversity.
When you step into some of the best Cuban restaurants in Key West, you’re not just enjoying a delicious meal; you’re breathing in a slice of Cuban heritage. Each bite of ropa vieja or sip of a refreshing mojito is a portal to the warmth and zest that define Cuban culture. Key West’s Cuban restaurants invite you to savor not only the flavors but also the heart and soul of Cuba that permeate this charming island city.
El Meson De Pepe
Located in the heart of Key West on Mallory Square, El Meson De Pepe is a beloved spot for Key West dining. This Cuban restaurant has been serving authentic Cuban dishes for over 30 years. As you step into this lively eatery, get ready for a realistic Cuban experience filled with colorful dishes with vibrant flavors. The menu offers a range of tempting dishes, including Camarones De Coco, which has fried coconut shrimp served on a bed of plantain chips with Pepe’s homemade pineapple marmalade. Or try the delicious Papa Rellenas, Picadillo, and Pork stuffed fried potato balls served with our chipotle key lime sauce. To top it all off, the restaurant’s lively atmosphere, complete with live music and dancing, sets the perfect backdrop for a Cuban culinary adventure. You are invited to indulge in the unique Cuban flavors at El Meson De Pepe and dance the night away.
El Siboney
For a truly authentic local experience with some of the best dining in Key West, head to Catherine Street and make your way to El Siboney. This charming family-owned Cuban restaurant has been a favorite among locals and visitors since 1984. At El Siboney, you’ll find hearty portions of Cuban favorites at wallet-friendly prices. The inviting atmosphere, coupled with the warm and welcoming staff, creates a cozy dining environment that calls you to enjoy the vibrant flavors of Cuba. Be sure to try their Chicharon or Tostones Rellenos Ajo at El Siboney, which pairs perfectly with one of our mojitos or margaritas. The friendly staff and cozy ambiance make El Siboney a must-visit for anyone looking to savor the flavors of Cuba.
El Mocho
If you’re in the mood for a quick and casual bite, look no further than El Mocho. This Cuban food stand on Stock Island is known for its overflowing Cuban sandwiches, or as they’re known in Key West, “Cuban Mix.” Packed with ham, roasted pork, Swiss cheese, pickles, and mustard, these sandwiches are the perfect combination of flavors. Grab a sandwich to-go and enjoy it while exploring Stock Island.
Frita’s Cuban Burgers Stand
For a twist on the traditional Cuban sandwich, head over to Frita’s Cuban Burgers Stand. Located on Southard Street, this local favorite is known for its delicious Cuban-inspired burgers. These flavorful creations feature spiced beef patties topped with shoestring fries, onions, and a secret sauce, all inside a toasted Cuban roll. Frita’s Cuban Burgers Stand offers a unique take on Cuban cuisine that is sure to satisfy your taste buds.
Kim’s Kuban
Kim’s Kuban is a popular spot in Key West that is family-owned & operated. This cozy Cuban spot is one of the best Key West Cuban food spots and is known for its authentic dishes cooked with care. When you visit, try their tender skirt steak tacos or opt for a satisfying chicken bowl that comes with your choice of rice, beans, and cheese. Kim’s Kuban offers a warm and inviting atmosphere where you can relax and savor every bite, making it a must-visit in Key West.
Sandy’s Cafe
If you’re in search of a laid-back dining experience with a cozy atmosphere, look no further than Sandy’s Cafe on White Street. This delightful little cafe has been serving up delicious Cuban American comfort food for over 60 years, making it a true Key West institution. When you visit, try their famous Cuban sandwich, which has received numerous well-deserved awards over the years. But if you’re craving something a little different from the classic Cuban, indulge in their juicy Cuban cheeseburger! It’s a unique twist that will satisfy your taste buds. And while you’re there, don’t forget to order their famous café con leche or cortado for the perfect pick-me-up. Sandy’s Cafe captures the essence of Key West’s culinary scene, so be sure to add it to your list while exploring this island paradise.
Cuban Coffee Queen
No visit to Key West is complete without a stop at the Cuban Coffee Queen. This charming coffee shop, with 3 locations in Old Town, serves up the best Cuban coffee in town. From the bold and rich café Cubano to the refreshing iced café con leche, every sip will transport you straight to the streets of Cuba. Pair your coffee with a delicious Cuban bagel or their sunrise special for the perfect start to your day.
Plan Your Visit
Discover the best Cuban Key West restaurants when you stay with Historic Hideaways. Explore our entire collection of Key West rentals and book your stay now to experience all that Key West, Florida has to offer!
Book Your Key West House Rentals with Historic Hideaways
After indulging in the flavors of Cuba, it’s time to plan your stay in Key West. Historic Hideaways offers a wide range of rental houses in Key West, perfect for your vacation needs. Whether you’re looking for a beachfront property with stunning ocean views or a cozy cottage within the heart of Old Town, Historic Hideaways has the perfect 2-bedroom Key West vacation rentals for you. Whether you’re a small family in need of a cozy 2-bedroom rental or a big group of friends searching for a spacious 5-bedroom getaway, Historic Hideaways has got you covered. But here’s the best part – Historic Hideaways also offers daily, weekly, and monthly vacation rentals. No matter how long you plan to stay in Key West, we have flexible options to suit your needs. With their expertise and excellent customer service, booking your stay with Historic Hideaways is a seamless and enjoyable experience. Key West is a paradise for food lovers, and the Cuban restaurants in this city truly capture the essence of Cuban cuisine. From traditional dishes to unique twists, these popular Key West Cuban restaurants offer a taste of Cuba right in the heart of the Conch Republic. Pack your bags and get excited to experience authentic Cuban cuisine.