Best Restaurants on Duval – Key West’s Culinary Heart

Duval Street is the beating heart of Key West, where life is vibrant, the drinks are flowing, and the food? Oh, the food is legendary. While Key West has its fair share of hidden gems across Old Town, sometimes you want to immerse yourself in the energy of Duval. Whether it’s your first time here or your tenth tropical pilgrimage, this guide will show you the best restaurants on Duval Street for every craving.

From fresh seafood to Cuban flavors, and fine dining to casual spots, buckle up because your taste buds are in for an unforgettable adventure.

Why Duval Street Is a Must for Foodies

Sure, Duval Street comes with some touristy vibes, but it’s impossible not to love its bohemian charm, live music, and people-watching goldmine. This one-mile stretch offers something for everyone, whether you’re after a hearty breakfast, a fine dining dinner, or a great happy hour.

Plus, Duval is home to Key West restaurants ranging from upscale seafood joints to eclectic outdoor eateries serving conch fritters and cocktails. Yep, you can wander the heart of Old Town and indulge in some of the best dining experiences in the Florida Keys.

Pro Tip:

Keep an eye out for live entertainment as you explore. Many spots on Duval feature talented local bands, or performers to complement the amazing food.

The Best Restaurants on Duval Street

1. DJ’s Clam Shack

Vibe: Casual, Northeast meets Southern
Try this: Lobster rolls, conch fritters
Why we love it: Featured on Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives, DJ’s Clam Shack is a local favorite set up for people who adore fresh local seafood with a touch of comfort food charm. Order a cold beer, grab a seat in their back patio, and take in the perfect combo of delicious food and top-tier people-watching.

2. Kaya Island Eats

Vibe: Caribbean-inspired
Try this: Jamaican jerk chicken, island curry soup
Why we love it: New to the scene but already securing its spot on “must-visit” lists, Kaya brings island flavors to the forefront. Their curry bowl is the kind of dish that hugs your soul, and the laid-back space perched on Duval makes it a great place for tropical vibes.

3. Caroline’s Café

Vibe: Casual American eats
Try this: Monster burgers, key lime pie, creative cocktails
Why we love it: Caroline’s has been a Key West icon for years. Nestled right in the middle of the bustling street, their outdoor seating is perfect for people-watching (and avoiding the awkward eye contact while you shamelessly devour their massive burgers). Try their key lime pie for a slice of Florida’s culinary pride.

4. Hot Tin Roof

Vibe: Romantic and upscale waterfront
Try this: Spiny lobster with key lime honey glaze
Why we love it: For those looking for a fine dining experience, Hot Tin Roof at Ocean Key Resort is unbeatable. Watch the sunset over the Key West Harbor, sip on a tropical cocktail, and treat yourself to some of the best romantic dinners on the island. Locals rave about their People’s Choice Award-winning sunset views.

5. Sunset Pier

Vibe: Beachy and lively
Try this: Fresh seafood, tropical drinks
Why we love it: Located at Zero Duval, this waterfront spot is where Caribbean cocktails and seafood come to play. Bright green umbrellas, live music, and killer sunset views make Sunset Pier a perfect spot to soak up Key West’s signature laid-back vibe. Don’t miss the red shrimp tacos!

6. La Trattoria

Vibe: Stylish European eatery
Try this: Lobster ravioli, white tablecloth entrées
Why we love it: If you’re craving currated Italian food, this is the best place to indulge. Known for its scratch-made pasta, La Trattoria mixes classic Italian eats with a beachy Key West charm. You’ll get upscale dining without the intimidating fuss.

7. Bagatelle

Vibe: Historic and charming al fresco dining
Try this: Brunch French toast, lobster mac ‘n’ cheese
Why we love it: Bagatelle is housed in a gorgeous historical Duval building, elevated from street level for discreet (yes, polite) people-watching. Brunch here feels like a warm hug, and their outdoor seating makes it one of our favorite restaurants for soaking in the idyllic Old Town charm.

Check out more of our foodie guides- here.

Hidden Gems You Shouldn’t Miss

1. Santiago’s Bodega

It’s tucked just off Duval into the quieter streets, offering inventive small plates and tapas-style goodness. We’re talking spicy shrimp, bacon-wrapped dates, and sangria. This divey t-shirt club turned restaurant is a hidden treasure for foodies.

2. Cuban Coffee Queen

Start your day with Cuban coffee and a breakfast sandwich from this local favorite. The rich, bold Cuban food speaks for itself.

3. El Meson de Pepe

For the best Cuban food on Duval, head to this gem beside Mallory Square. Their roasted pork, black beans, and fried plantains truly capture the taste of the Keys’ rich Cuban heritage.

Perfect Pairings for Your Duval Visit

No Duval dining experience is complete without a memorable glass of something strong. Make sure to grab a mojito, a rum runner, or frozen Key lime slush for the ultimate vacation vibes. Of course, Sloppy Joe’s is a great spot to enjoy a drink, with plenty of history and live jam sessions to keep the good times rolling.

Pro Tip:

For fine dining restaurants, try making a reservation during bar hours to enjoy discounted happy hour bites with the same attentive service.

Grab our Free Happy Hour List – here.

Key Takeaways for Your Duval Food Adventure

Duval Street might be small, but its food scene packs a punch. From eclectic outdoor eateries to fine dining experiences, this collection of best restaurants has something delicious to offer, no matter your taste. Whether you’re after spicy Jamaican jerk chicken, a slice of history at Sloppy Joe’s, or a Technicolor waterfront sea sunset over fresh lobster, Duval guarantees an unforgettable, flavor-packed trip.