Let’s be honest, there are a million reasons to head to the Keys. The roosters, the history, the general vibe that says “emails don’t exist here.” But the real reason we all flock to Key West? The food. Specifically, eating that food while staring at the ocean with a margarita in hand.
Waterfront dining in Key West is basically a sport, and I’m ready to coach you to victory. Whether you want white tablecloths and a sunset that’ll make you cry, or a sandy bar where shoes are strictly optional, this island has it all. I’ve rounded up the best spots to catch an ocean breeze, listen to some live music, and eat your weight in conch fritters.
Ready to eat? Let’s dive in.
Hot Tin Roof
If you’re looking for “Sunset Vibes” with a side of chic island experience, Hot Tin Roof is your spot. Overlooking the water, this place is legendary for a reason. Their Sunday brunch? Absolutely killer. Just a heads up: you are almost definitely going to need a reservation here. It’s popular, it’s fancy-ish, and the views are worth planning ahead for.
Sunset Pier
Okay, you don’t need to dress up for this one. You know those iconic green umbrellas you see in all the Key West vacation photos? That’s Sunset Pier. You’ll get amazing water views all day long, but if you want a front-row seat for the actual sunset, get there early. It’s the perfect place to grab a cocktail, listen to live music, and watch the boats go by. It’s classic, breezy, and totally relaxed.
Seaside Cafe at the Mansion
Located at the famous Southernmost House (yep, the mansion right near the buoy), Seaside Cafe is a hidden gem on the quieter end of Duval. The menu highlight? Lobster pizza. It’s rich, it’s decadent, and you probably can’t finish it alone—so bring a friend to share. It’s a fantastic spot to escape the noise and just enjoy the view.
Southernmost Beach Cafe
This is usually one of my first stops when I hit the island. Southernmost Beach Cafe is right on South Beach, meaning you can sip specialty margaritas while staring at the water. I love their fresh fish of the day sandwich—it’s always a huge portion and super fresh. If you want fish tacos with your toes in the sand, this is the place.
La Trattoria Oceanside
Craving pasta with your sunset? La Trattoria Oceanside offers amazing Italian food paired with spectacular views. It’s a little more upscale and perfect for a date night. Pasta and ocean breezes? Yes, please.
Salute! On The Beach
This is a fan favorite for a reason. Salute! is awesome for a sunny lunch or Sunday brunch. It’s laid back, the food is lighter and delicious, and the best part? After you eat, you can wander right onto the beach, kick off your flip-flops, and take a stroll.
Loggerheads Beach Bar
Head over to the end of Simonton Street for Loggerheads. It’s got an eclectic menu featuring ceviche and fish tacos, plus great cocktails and ice-cold beer. It’s a true beach bar vibe where the main course is relaxation.
Geiger Key Marina
If you have a car (or rent one), drive up to Geiger Key. This is old-school Florida Keys energy. It’s tucked into the mangroves, totally off the beaten path, and nothing about it is fancy—which is exactly why it’s amazing. It feels like a secret spot for locals, often parked right next to the RVs.
Boathouse Bar and Grill
Located at the old Turtle Kraals, Boathouse Bar and Grill is voted one of the best happy hours on the island. The appetizer prices are fantastic, and the view of the marina is top-tier. It’s a great spot to watch the boats and save a few bucks on delicious bites.
Half Shell Raw Bar
For a communal, old-school feel, you have to hit Half Shell Raw Bar. Think picnic tables, cold drinks, and quintessential Key West energy. It’s the best place for oysters and a dining experience that feels authentic. And don’t skip their Key Lime Pie—it comes “naked” (no meringue or whipped cream), but it’s spectacular.
Your Table is Waiting
Whether you’re hunting for the perfect tropical fruit cocktail, the freshest catch, or just an excellent place to watch the sun dip below the horizon, Key West delivers. The only hard part is deciding which view to soak up first. My advice? Try as many as you can—vacation calories don’t count anyway.
