Key West likes to call itself The Conch Republic, meaning its culture is unique, like a nation unto itself. Foodwise, that means a wonderful, crazy mix of restaurants that reflect the Caribbean and the Deep South with flavors that range from traditional to off-the-map creative. Here are a dozen Roadfood favorites that offer a memorable tastes of the Key.
Eaton Street Seafood
Fresh (fresh!) fish at its finest makes extremely casual Eaton Street Seafood an essential Key West food-lover's destination. Stone crabs in season are a must.

El Siboney
El Siboney is an out-of-the-way restaurant serving Cuban lunch and early dinner, mostly to locals. A Key West, Florida, hidden gem!

Half Shell Raw Bar
A rowdy restaurant bar on Key West's old waterfront, the Half Shell is great place to enjoy cracked conch, fresh oysters, and tropical libations.

Pepe’s Cafe & Steak House
Pepe's boasts it is “the eldest eating house in the Florida Keys.” Its 3-meal-a-day menu ranges from fresh bread every morning to steak & oysters at dinner.

Louie’s Back Yard
A romantic Key West dining spot overlooking the Ocean, Louie's serves stylish Caribbean food in a laid-back way. Don't miss: Key lime pie on gingersnap crust.

Blue Heaven
House motto: "Blue Heaven: you don’t have to die to get there." The outdoor terrace is a magical place for breakfast (or lunch or supper) on Key West.

Fisherman’s Cafe
At the Key West seaport, Fisherman's Cafe is a casual walk-up eatery serving Conch eats to go or to enjoy at al fresco tables. Open early for breakfast.

La Petite Grignote
A more secluded version of Key West's fine French bakery serves the best pastries in town. Egg breakfasts, bread, coffee & smoothies all are grand.

Fritas Cuban Burger Cafe
Cuban street food, traditional and wildly creative, is served in a colorful Key West shack. The Frita burger and Cuban sandwich variations are memorable.

Glazed Donuts
Creative, from-scratch donuts are big and intriguingly delicious at this simple Key West storefront shop. A breakfast must for sweet tooths.

Hurricane Hole
Utterly fresh seafood & clever cocktails served under sun by the water on a colorful marina make Hurricane Hole a dreamy destination at the edge of Key West.

Hogfish Bar & Grill
Hogfish Bar & Grill offers a happy, casual, tropical-themed taste of Florida-Keys life, including superb local seafood and masterfully mixed cocktails.