As I was scrolling through my Facebook feed avoiding my ever so present writer’s block, a burst of inspiration came along. Out of the corner of my eye peeped a Miami Herald article that read “Key West students get diplomas in the ocean,” with pictures of the graduating students riding up on jet skis to receive their diplomas.
That is my hometown ladies and gentleman.
Cue all the memories and nostalgia of the crazy traditions we used to uphold, that I had absolutely no idea weren’t normal until I moved away for college.
There truly is no place like home, and as cliche as the statement is, you’ll never hear the same passion in anyone’s voice as you will when you hear a Key West local say it. We call it the good ole conch pride.
There’s an instrumental rule to remember when you’re visiting Key West, at the heart of all it’s weird traditions, lively atmosphere, and captivating beauty, is a small town. And as with any small town, you’re much better off if you know a local.
If you’re reading this, pleased to meet you, I will gladly be your local today. Eighteen years of growing up in Key West has taught me a good bit about the ins and outs, but if you prefer to hear about tourist traps, feel free to move on to the next blog.
However, if you want to find out about the most authentic and quality aspects of Key West to plan your visit, you’ve come to the right place. So without further adieu, I present to you-
The Ultimate LOCAL’S Guide to Key West
The Best Local Eats
Breakfast
Blue Heaven: Blue Heaven is one of those places that you should never go to if you eat with your eyes, because you will end up ordering the whole menu. (I am that person that eats with my eyes and orders the whole menu here) I’ve yet to have a dish here that wasn’t delicious. Blue Heaven’s ambiance epitomizes the fun and carefree island lifestyle of Key West.
Harpoon Harry’s: Harpoon Harry’s has a perfect diner style brunch setting with amazing drink specials for both the bloody and the mimosa lover! Their menu hosts the perfect variety of options from healthy to indulgent to get you filled up well for the day ahead.
Kim’s Kuban: Kim’s Kuban is a local secret, with the best cuban toast and con leches you will ever taste. If you’re in a rush, just call ahead to make your order with Kim’s and stop by to pick up a breakfast sandwich or toast of your choice. Their egg and cheese is the bomb.com!
Dinner
El Siboney: Key West is only 90 miles from Cuba, and whatever they put in their recipes is a mouth watering reminder. You can’t visit a town with rich cuban culture without trying the food, and the modest exterior and hidden locations for both of El Siboney’s restaurants make it the perfect place to enjoy the creme de la creme free of other tourists, (like yourself ;))
Cafe Sole: Cafe Sole is a neighborhood gem for Key West locals. Although dinner here may be a bit of a splurge, you’ll always get the service and cuisine you pay for and then some. If you’re feeling adventurous, try their famous Hogfish!
Santiago’s Bodega: Located just a few blocks down from Duval, Santiagos is praised by locals for it’s delicious tapas and sangria. That fresh ceviche tapas from an island just hits different.
Hogfish: Hogfish is another hidden gem located in the Stock Island area of Key West that’s frequented by locals and food critics alike. If you’re staying near Duval, I promise their fish tacos are worth the 15 minute trek. Get outside seating, and enjoy the most gorgeous sunset view from the harbor as you indulge.
Chico’s Cantina: Somehow, the talented chef’s of Key West managed to master Mexican food as well. I mean really master it. You can pass by Chicos on US1 and turn in on your way towards Duval to stop in and enjoy some of the most delicious fajitas that fueled many of my fond childhood memories.
Happy Hour/ Lunch
Conch Republic Seafood: Located right on the Key West Bight Marina, Conch Farm is the perfect place to stop in and get a drink and some delicious fresh seafood after a day on the boat. It’s one of those places where it’s always feels like it’s five o’ clock somewhere. If the atmosphere isn’t what you’re looking for, next on the list is one of my other favorite spots, no less than a 30 second walk away-
The Boathouse: Boathouse serves some of the most delicious food in Key West, and their HH menu special’s are hard to beat. Their HH special offers a half off deal on all small plates, draft beer, well liquor cocktails, house wine, margaritas, mojitos and rum runners! Even the pickiest traveler couldn’t complain with a deal like that.
Old Town Tavern Beer Garden: Located right on Duval Street, Old Town Tavern is the perfect place to stop in for lunch and a hangover burger. The Tavern is any beer enthusiast’s dream, with international selections of crisp and refreshing drafts from all over the world.
Sunset Pier: Sunset Pier is an obvious choice for happy hour, and the allure is in the name. Key West boasts some of the most beautiful sunsets I’ve seen to date. Not only can you enjoy good eats and drinks while you watch the sun go down, but you can enjoy some of the local talent and get your groove on with some live music. If your aim is more for drink specials, be aware that their Happy Hour is seasonal for Summer months only.
Tavern & Town: Tavern & Town is a bit of a trek away from Duval and the Historic District, but if you enjoy top shelf liquor and top tier food, this is the place to splurge and actually get your money’s worth. Their HH special offers a BOGO deal for top shelf drinks, and their food is, in a word, delectable.
Late Night Food
Mr. Zs: Although Mr. Z’s famous cheesesteaks are absolutely delicious to eat sober, it’s almost a norm to go here after a night of drinking on Duval. If it’s anytime after midnight, expect a line, and lots of drunk people in it. True Story: Before the Venmo days, I once spent a half hour scraping $6.50 worth of quarters out of the bottom of my friend’s car just so I could buy myself a cheesesteak from this place when I had forgotten my wallet. So yeah, they’re that good.
The Key West Bucket List
Take the scenic route: This especially goes for the Floridians reading. Once you pass the 18 mile stretch after Miami, the drive through the Keys to reach Key West is absolutely breathtaking.
Take a Sunset Booze Cruise: I recommend buying tickets for Commotion on the Ocean in advance, these babies sell out quick. But they’re an extremely fun way to enjoy the beauty of Key West and enjoy unlimited drinks and live music, the perfect pre-game for Duval (If you make it that far)
Visit Fort Zachary Taylor Beach: Fort Zach is easily the most beautiful beach in Key West, because 1. it costs a $5 fee to get in that too many people don’t want to pay, and 2. It has stricter alcohol rules and thus hasn’t been completely polluted by tourists and spring breakers. In exchange for sharing this information with you all, I implore you to keep my island clean when you visit. Litterers are not welcome.
Take a Watersports Tour: Fury Watersports hosts some great day-long excursions with all the adventure you can seek, whether it’s parasailing, jetskiing, snorkeling, or jumping on some trampolines in the middle of the ocean, just go to their website and pick your poison. Some tours include all the above!
Watch the Sunset from the Roof of the Galleon Hotel: You’ll have to climb a few flights of stairs to get there, but it’s worth getting the best sunset view in Key West. The Galleon is a place where you can actually take in the sunset views in peace without being trapped around other tourists in complete miserable humidity (like most of the tourist trap spots you’ll probably hear about)
Unwind at Lagerheads: Lagerheads is a quaint little bar with it’s very own beach to enjoy while you run back and forth for your second, third, (or fifth) cocktail. It’s a great place to relax with good vibes almost always guaranteed.
Party on Duval Street: No description necessary.
Hire a Charter Boat for the day: Whether you want to go fishing, diving, or just off to one of our many beautiful little keys to relax, this is a MUST when you visit Key West. Key West’s beauty magnifies by 100000 when you get to see it by boat, and you aren’t getting the full experience if you don’t take at least one of your vacation days to do this. However, with a multitude of companies to choose from, this task is more easily accomplished when you know someone.. and it just so happens that now you do 🙂
For Charter Boat referrals for your visit, contact me here. Be sure to include the specifics on what kind of services you’re looking for, and I’ll get you all set up.
To those of you who are planning a trip, I ask you all to please respect the social distancing rules and environmental policies of this little island I hold dear to my heart. The road block to Key West is officially opening back up to tourists on June 1st, all those who approach with respect are guaranteed a friendly welcome.
