Alright, steak lovers, gather ‘round. Key West may be famous for its sunsets, key lime pie, and a certain Ernest Hemingway, but today we’re putting the spotlight on an unsung hero of island dining… STEAK. Yes, I said it. The Florida Keys aren’t just about fresh seafood and conch fritters. Sometimes, you want a New York Strip that makes your heart sing (and your waistband groan).
From intimate dining rooms to tiki bar vibes, I’ve rounded up the ultimate spots to dig into some delicious steak on your next Key West adventure. Hungry? Good. Keep reading.
Prime Steakhouse
First stop? Prime Steakhouse. This place has been slinging prime cuts and chef’s kiss service since 2005. If you’re looking for a classic steakhouse vibe with a touch of Key West charm, this is it.
Location: 951 Caroline Street, Key West, FL 33040
Ambiance: You’ve got options, people. Dine under the stars on their terrace or settle into their intimate dining room (a.k.a. where date night magic happens).
Menu Highlights
- 16 oz. New York Strip cooked to perfection in ovens cranked up to nearly 1,000 degrees. Yes, you read that right.
- Fresh, daily seafood specials, because when in the Florida Keys…
- Sides that steal the show, like Truffled Mac and Cheese. (If I could marry a side dish, it might be this one.)
Bonus Points: Their wine list is impressive enough to make a sommelier weep—with selections from Italy, France, and the USA. Bring someone who won’t judge you for ordering a second bottle.
Viva Argentinian Steakhouse
If you want steak with an international flair, head to Viva Argentinian Steakhouse on Duval Street. This isn’t just a meal, it’s a vibe. Think Argentinian flavors served in a space that’s part tiki bar, part speakeasy, and fully unforgettable.
Location: 903 Duval Street, Key West, FL 33040
Ambiance: Tiki cocktails in hand, twinkly lights overhead, funky island-meets-Argentina energy. Did I mention there’s a secret speakeasy? You just have to find it.
Menu Highlights
- 14 oz. New York Strip paired with herb butter, sweet potatoes, and honey-roasted carrots.
- Classic Argentinian goodies like steak empanadas and Provoleta (aka grilled cheese, but like, elevated).
- End it all with a dreamy slice of Key Lime Pie.
Bonus Points: There’s a daily happy hour from 3 PM to 5 PM, with drink specials and small bites. Oh, and they’re pros at hosting private events, so if you’re getting hitched or just want to throw a bougie party, keep Viva in mind.
Duffy’s Steak & Lobster House
Next up, Duffy’s Steak & Lobster House, a local favorite that’s been charming the pants off Key West residents for ages. This spot marries comfort and steakhouse staples into one casual-yet-classy dining experience.
Location: Corner of Simonton & Truman, Key West, FL
Ambiance: No need to break out the fancy shoes; this is relaxed Old Town dining at its best.
Menu Highlights
- The ultimate surf-and-turf combos, like tender steak and lobster.
- Seafood galore. Fresh Key West catches? Yes, please.
- Plenty of options for vegetarians too (think pasta specials and salads).
Bonus Points: They’re open daily from noon to 10:30 PM, making it easy to swing by post-beach or pre-sunset stroll to Mallory Square.
The Flaming Buoy Filet Co.
Looking for something a bit more offbeat? Welcome to The Flaming Buoy Filet Co. It’s part retro supper club, part sassy bistro, and all-around cool.
Location: 424 Eaton Street, Key West, FL 33040
Ambiance: Cozy, quirky, and charmingly unique. It’s the kind of place where the staff knows your name and might even share a toast with you.
Menu Highlights
- Filet Mignon topped with tropical fruit salsas for that perfect balance of savory and sweet.
- Local seafood dishes infused with bold Caribbean flavors.
- Killer Happy Hour menu from 4 PM to 6 PM with drink specials that’ll have you toasting Hemingway himself.
Bonus Points: Dinner officially starts at 5:30 PM, so get there early to snag your table.
Tavern N Town
Last but not least, say hello to Tavern N Town, tucked inside the Beachside Resort (previously the Marriott Key West). This joint strikes the ideal balance of casual yet elegant, making it perfect for everything from romantic dinners to corporate schmoozing.
Location: 3841 North Roosevelt Boulevard, Key West, FL 33040
Ambiance: Picture this: plush seating, an open view of the chefs at their Tapas Theater Kitchen, and live music every night. Fancy, but not too fancy.
Menu Highlights
- A variety of prime steaks that will leave you feeling like royalty.
- Fresh seafood creations that beg for a glass of citrus beurre blanc-friendly wine.
- Don’t miss the late-night tapas menu, available after 10 PM.
Bonus Points: Their “Happy Hour” at the bar from 5 PM to 7 PM features $10 tapas and 2-for-1 drinks. What’s better than steak paired with a couple of Bloody Marys? Not much.
Get Your (Steak) Bite on in Key West
From prime cuts to Argentinian mutton chops, Key West truly has something for every steak lover. Whether you’re craving a laid-back evening at a tiki bar or an intimate dining room experience worthy of a rom-com proposal, this island reputation for great food doesn’t disappoint.
Pro Tip: Double-check reservation policies before you go. Some of these hotspots fill up fast, especially during busy seasons. You wouldn’t want to miss out on your New York Strip moment, right?
Have you tried one of these spots and fallen in love? Or is there a hidden gem I missed? Let me know! Next time I’m in Key West, who knows? I might just steal your suggestion.
Want more ideas on where to eat? Check out all of our suggestions here!
