Food/drinks you like and where?

Question

Been traveling to Key West for many years. We recently returned from our annual monthly trip in Key West. Sometimes we get in a rut and go to the same places. However, we go to many places and there are certain drinks or food we like and don't necessarily find ourselves scanning the menu. Here are some on my list. What do you like and where?

Onlywood Grille: Ravioli Spinachi (sage sauce is yum!)

Alonzos: Mussels Diablo (with extra bread!)

Harpoon Harry's: Bloody Harry (more spice, the better)

Sunset Tiki Bar: 2 for 1 Bloody Mary at 10am (stunning views!)

Bel Mare: After dinner drinks and gelato at the bar (sea salt caramel is amazing!)

Waterfront Brewery: Kale Salad (perfect mix of toppings and dressing)

Boat House: Coldest draft beer and buffalo shrimp (first beer of the day!)

Conch Republic: Royal Reds (hate the backless bar stools, though!)

Bagatelle: Swordfish is great (sit upstairs along railing w/Duval view)

Abbondanza: Sometimes you just want pasta (away from the mayhem!)

Prime Steakhouse: Oysters Rockefeller and Filet (red wine demi-glaze excellent!)

Lattitudes: Morning cocktail on the beach (ferry ride over/back is a plus!)

Green Parrot: Fun to just be outside with a beer and listen to the music!

First Flight: Wedge Salad and Pina Colada IPA (subtle coconut, who woulda thought!)

Old Town Tavern: Cold draft beer! (chats with Jessica at the bar!)

Answer

Hi!

Key West has a fantastic food and drink scene, and it’s great that you’ve built a list of favorites! Many visitors end up returning to the same trusted spots, but there are always a few hidden gems or repeat-worthy items that make each trip memorable. Here’s a summary and some ideas based on your favorites:

Restaurants and Dishes You Love:

Onlywood Grille: Ravioli Spinachi with sage sauce—perfect for a cozy Italian meal away from the Duval Street crowds.
Alonzo’s: Mussels Diablo with extra bread—ideal for sharing and enjoying fresh seafood in a vibrant atmosphere.
Harpoon Harry's: Bloody Harry—spicy and flavorful, especially fun for brunch or an early lunch cocktail.
Sunset Tiki Bar: 2-for-1 Bloody Marys at 10am with ocean views—classic Key West experience and excellent for sunrise or late morning relaxation.
Bel Mare: After-dinner drinks and gelato (sea salt caramel)—great for a sweet finish and people-watching along Duval.
Waterfront Brewery: Kale Salad—fresh, crisp, and balanced; a lighter lunch option after walking around Old Town.
Boat House: Cold draft beer and buffalo shrimp—perfect first drink of the day with a casual waterfront vibe.
Conch Republic: Royal Reds—delicious seafood, though the seating may be less comfortable.
Bagatelle: Swordfish—sitting upstairs gives a great view of Duval, perfect for dinner with ambiance.
Abbondanza: Classic pasta meals—a quieter escape from the tourist bustle.
Prime Steakhouse: Oysters Rockefeller and Filet with red wine demi-glaze—excellent for a more formal dinner night.
Lattitudes: Morning cocktails on the beach—the ferry adds a sense of adventure and beautiful sunrise/sunset views.
Green Parrot: Casual, fun live music spot—great to relax with a beer and soak in local atmosphere.
First Flight: Wedge Salad and Pina Colada IPA—a creative twist on a classic brew and salad pairing.
Old Town Tavern: Cold draft beer—classic dive bar vibe and friendly chat with locals.

Additional Recommendations:

Try Blue Heaven for brunch—famous for lobster Benedict and outdoor courtyard seating with roosters wandering about.
For a slightly different seafood experience, Garbo’s Grill offers gourmet tacos and fresh fish dishes with casual outdoor seating.
Kelly’s Caribbean Bar & Grill is great for Caribbean-inspired seafood and casual drinks near the water.
If you enjoy rum cocktails, Rum Barrel or Captain Tony’s offer strong drinks with classic Key West ambiance.
For late-night bites or casual hangouts, DJ’s Clam Shack has lobster rolls and fresh local seafood without the upscale prices.

Key West is all about balancing casual waterfront vibes with a few indulgent meals. Your list already covers some of the best spots for cocktails, seafood, and gelato, so mixing in one or two of these additional suggestions can keep the trip feeling fresh while sticking to the things you know you love. Early morning or late afternoon visits often help avoid peak crowds, especially on Duval Street.