Indulge in Island Cuisine at These Popular Key West Restaurants

The southernmost point of the United States, Key West, is a tropical paradise known for its beautiful beaches, gorgeous weather, and rich cultural history. But one of the best things about this island is the food! Whether you’re looking to try something new or enjoy some delicious classics, Key West has something everyone will enjoy.

From fresh seafood to Caribbean-style dishes, Key West is a foodie’s dream come true, and we’ve found some of the best restaurants in Key West we think you’re sure to love!

La Trattoria

La Trattoria is home to classic quality Italian food. There are two locations at this time.

Revel in the cozy romantic atmosphere of the original historic Old Town location. Opened in 1983, this lovely Italian bistro restaurant is perfect for small gatherings and dates. 

The Oceanside restaurant provides classy, high-quality food and outstanding service. They have an extensive list of fine wines and spirits so there is something to satisfy every taste bud. Freshly caught seafood and the daily specials make this a fiery hot spot. Enjoy looking out over the Atlantic Ocean as you bask in the sun and enjoy a delicious meal with loved ones. 

top view of group at dinner
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Santiago Bodega 

The beautiful rustic atmosphere sets a warm, inviting environment perfect for any gathering. Known for their globally inspired “Tapas” or shared plates. Tapas are traditionally a Spanish-styled appetizer, but they put a wonderful spin on them that works beautifully. They offer hot and cold tapas like their spicy shrimp bisque. 

Come for weekend brunch specials when they offer sweet tapas as well. Jason Dugan, the owner, was inspired by his childhood dream and the book Old Man and The Sea by Earnest Hemmingway. He moved from Kansas City to Florida as an adult to make his childhood dreams come true. Looking around, you can note the dedication to Key West dining and the love that went into making his dream come true. 

Red Shoe Island Bistro

Couple enjoying a romantic dinner
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Their unique spin on yellowtail snapper and beef stroganoff makes this place a popular hotspot. They even have a Travelers Choice Award through Tripadvisor. Their unassuming menu boasts mouthwatering dishes like shrimp mango toast, Fresh garlic, capers, aioli, fresh parsley, red chili, and shrimp, all on top of a piece of toasted mango bread. 

The combination of sweet mango bread, savory seasonings, and a touch of heat will take your taste buds on their mini vacation. This is perfectly paired with one of their unique salads or local spirits perfectly mixed into an excellent cocktail. Located in the heart of Old Town, they greatly encourage reservations. They get busy! 

DJ’s Clam Shack

Their menu perfectly blends Southern home cooking and flavor with a modern twist. Created in 2009, two good old boys decided to make their dream come true—one from Ipswich, Massachusetts, and the other from Blue Point, New York. Featured on the famous show Diners, Drive-ins, and Dives, their combination of flavors is a hit.

They wanted to keep prices reasonable while providing the best quality. They came up with their innovative cone packaging that did just that. Try any of their local crowd favorites, like their Maine lobster rolls or conch fritters, and see why this is one of the most popular Key West restaurants.

Plan Your Key West Getaway

Historic Hideaways offers some of the finest house rentals Key West has to offer, so give us a call and start planning your trip today!

VIV Wine Bistro

This authentic French-owned bistro hosts a wine cellar and bar as well. The owner, Julie De Cock, moved to the Key West area to pass on her passion for the French way of life. Always feel free in the calming and relaxed French-styled atmosphere. Listen to the beautiful melodies of live local bands while sipping on one of their elegant selections of wine. 

Pair it with one of their famous dishes that sport a twist. Try their indulgent grilled cheese sandwich with brie, bacon, berries, almonds, and berry jam. They even have a French-styled deviled egg. Or stick with some of their more traditional dishes like duck salad or shrimp ceviche. Nothing can beat their made-to-order charcuterie boards. 

They offer a wide selection of items to add to them. They have one of the largest selections of natural and organic wines in town. Natural wine is a wine that only has one main ingredient, grapes! Studies have even shown that natural wine tastes better. 

Date and Thyme

Any thyme of day, you can be sure the hard-working people of the Date and Thyme store are keeping up with their mission of making lives better. They aim to improve lives by offering better organic options to help nourish the body, mind, and soul. 

They constantly aim to keep people and the planet first. Connected to their store is their cafe. They cook only the healthiest food for the locals and guests to Key West. Most items on their menu can be made gluten-free, vegan, and vegetarian. Try one of their bowls, like the acai bowl or spirulina bowl. They also offer wraps and lunch options. Date and Thyme also offers a kid-friendly menu. Fill up on one of their customizable smoothies. 

With so many health-conscious options, there’s no way you can leave the table hungry. Leave knowing you supported local business and that you’ll have the fuel to explore the wonders of the Key West area.

friend toasting
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Book Your Key West Vacation Rentals with Historic Hideaways

Key West, Florida, has a lot to offer, Beauty, beaches, fun-filled evenings, and wonder-filled nature abound here in Key West. Nothing can beat the comfort of relaxing after a long day of fun. 

Historic Hideaways has just the place for you. They have nightly and weekly Key West rentals perfect for any length of stay. They offer several different sizes of homes to accommodate any size party! These fully furnished rentals have just the right touch of classic style mixed with beach vibes. The yards are covered with island vegetation that make you feel like you are on your very own tropical oasis. 

Fully equipped kitchens, washers and dryers, and even Key West rentals with pools are what you’ll find awaiting you here at Historic Hideaways. They even have adorable names like Shipyard and Conch in Training. 

Like the idea of having a private pool to relax in? Historic Hideaways has just the place for you. They have many homes to choose from with their own private or public pool. Sand free! They have weekly and monthly rental options. 

Don’t forget your fur babies! They have several pet-friendly options and tons of things to do with your pet while you’re visiting! What would a vacation be without one of its most important members? These lush rentals can fit up to ten occupants and are decorated chic and upscale. 

Enjoy all of the comforts in these beautiful homes. Perfect for large or small groups, these Key West vacation rentals provide peace and calm after a long day of fun-filled adventures. There is something here for everyone through Historic Hideaways. View all of our Key West Vacation Rentals and find your oasis today and plan the vacation of your dreams!