If you’re a seafood lover planning your trip to Key West and you don’t try the shrimp, we’re going to have to have a serious talk. From the sweet and tender Key West pink shrimp (affectionately called “Pink Gold”) to magnificent shrimp scampi dishes, every bite on this island is like witnessing an epic love story between the sea and your taste buds.
What’s even better? With Florida Keys’ abundance of fresh seafood markets, food trucks, and celebrated restaurants, shrimp here comes in every form imaginable. Coconut shrimp, shrimp tacos, shrimp salad, and even Caribbean shrimp with just the right amount of seasoning—it’s all here. Hungry yet? I thought so.
This guide will give you an inside scoop on the best Key West restaurants, food trucks, and hidden gems serving must-try shrimp dishes. And hey, if this doesn’t convince you to pack your bags, I’ll throw in some Bloody Marys and Key lime pie recommendations for good measure.
Why Key West Shrimp Is Worth the Hype
If you’re new to the Florida Keys’ shrimp craze, here’s the deal. Key West pink shrimp (a.k.a. “Pink Gold”) are local shrimp harvested right off the coast. Known for their mild flavor and luscious bite, they’ve become a staple in Southern seafood dishes like shrimp scampi and shrimp tacos. From casual eats to full meals fit for royalty, local shrimp brings a little sunshine to every plate.
Pro tip? Ask about “Royal Reds” if you see them as an off-menu option. These sweet, tender beauties are like the buttery filet mignon of shrimp. Trust me; they’re worth it.
Now, on to the best places in Key West to get your shrimp fix.
1. Garbo’s Grill
Looking for funky vibes and delicious shrimp tacos? Look no further than Garbo’s Grill, a beloved food truck nestled behind Hank’s Hair of the Dog. They serve yum yum shrimp in tacos or burritos. Pair it with Hank’s white peach sangria for maximum flavor. Bonus points for outdoor seating and live music.
Margaret St., behind Hank’s
Must-Try Dish: Yum Yum Shrimp Tacos
Recommended Pairing: White Peach Sangria
2. Blue Heaven
Eclectic, iconic, and a touch quirky, Blue Heaven is one of the best Key West restaurants for seafood lovers. Their lunch menu offers Caribbean BBQ shrimp, aka blackened Key West pinks served with cornbread muffins and a tangy Red Stripe beer-based sauce. Grab a slice of the best Key lime pie while you’re there, too.
Petronia St.
Must-Try Dish: Caribbean BBQ Shrimp
Pro Tip: Kick back and enjoy the live roosters (it’s a Key West thing).
3. Hot Tin Roof
For romantic oceanfront dining, look no further than Hot Tin Roof. This elegant destination serves up blackened shrimp mac and cheese that’s impossibly decadent. If you’re celebrating a special occasion, order their grilled pink shrimp and a nice glass of white wine.
Oceanfront near Mallory Square
Dish to Die For: Blackened Shrimp Mac & Cheese
Perfect Pairing: A chilled glass of Chardonnay with hints of citrus.
4. Breakfast Club Too
Good morning, shrimp fans! Over on Greene Street, this brunch haven is where you’ll find shrimp and grits with a southern flair. Made with black beans, pico de Gallo, and a drizzle of chorizo oil, it’s the perfect punchy meal to start your day. Pair it with one of their custom Bloody Marys, and you’ll be set.
Greene Street
Top Morning Pick: Shrimp and Grits with a Bloody Mary Bar
5. Half Shell Raw Bar
Casual, cool, and seafood galore, Half Shell Raw Bar is a local favorite in the historic seaport. Sunshine surrounds you as you dig into dishes like the Shrimp Louie Salad, loaded with hard-boiled eggs, avocado, tomatoes, and their signature dressing. It’s old-school fabulousness with Key West charm.
Historic Seaport
Shrimp Superstar Dish: Shrimp Louie Salad
Extra Points for the No-Topping Key Lime Pie
6. Eaton Street Seafood Market
Seafood lovers can’t miss this historic gem. Located in an old gas station (yes, really!), Eaton Street Seafood Market not only serves fresh seafood but also features pre-made dishes perfect for a quick bite. Try the shrimp salad sandwich with a sprinkle of fresh dill or their shrimp ceviche if you’re feeling adventurous.
Eaton Street
Quick Bite Stunners: Shrimp Salad Sandwich & Shrimp Ceviche
7. Thirsty Mermaid
Need a quick escape from the crowds? Head to Thirsty Mermaid for a shrimp Caesar salad aka the Mermaid Ceasar paired with scallops for extra flair. Their beer and wine menu is a dream come true for pairing options.
Fleming St.
Simple Yet Elegant Highlight: Shrimp Caesar Salad with Local Beer
8. Southernmost Beach Cafe
You don’t get much closer to the ocean than this. With waterfront dining and laidback vibes, Southernmost Beach Cafe serves excellent coconut shrimp, peel-and-eat shrimp, and even flavorful shrimp wraps. Their margaritas don’t hurt either.
Oceanfront near Southernmost Point
All-Time Winner Dish: Coconut Shrimp & Shrimp Wraps
9. Conch Republic Seafood Company
Known for showcasing fresh Key West pinks, this spot boasts one of the best daily happy hours in town. All the seafood is brought straight from the boats, so you know it’s fresh. Oh, and don’t miss their off-menu Royal Reds if available!
Historic Seaport
Don’t-Miss Dish: Peel-and-Eat Shrimp or Coconut Shrimp
Speaking of Happy Hours… grab our FREE Happy Hour list – Here!
10. Moondog Cafe
When blackened shrimp and breakfast tacos collide, magic happens. Located across from the Hemingway House, Moondog Cafe offers unique breakfast options, including shrimp benedict for your morning indulgence.
Whitehead Street
Morning Must-Have: Blackened Shrimp Breakfast Tacos
11. Hurricane Hole
Hidden gem alert! Tucked away from touristy spots, Hurricane Hole serves peel-and-eat shrimp and shrimp po’ boys in a laid-back Old Key West setting. Feeling adventurous after lunch? Rent a kayak next door and hit the water.
Stock Island
Hidden Treasure Pick: Shrimp Po’ Boys
Make Your Florida Keys Dining Experience Truly Unforgettable
Key West offers such a variety of seafood selections, shrimp preparations, and unique flavors that every seafood lover will find something to fall in love with. Whether you’re sipping black pepper margaritas at Southernmost Beach Cafe or revisiting the history of shrimp tacos at Garbo’s Grill, one thing’s clear: shrimp is the star of the show here.
Now it’s your turn to create your personal “best shrimp in Key West” list. Which spot are you hitting first? Drop a comment and share your favorite with us! Next time you’re craving good food with epic views, these places will deliver unforgettable shrimp dishes.
