Best seafood in Marathon

I'm visiting Florida and staying in Marathon next month. Any recommendations when it comes to seafood. Places with a decent drink menu too are appreciated.

Thanks all

Marathon, located in the middle of the Florida Keys, has several excellent spots for fresh seafood and a good drink menu. The city’s dining scene is laid-back but very focused on locally caught fish, stone crab, lobster, and Key West specialties.

Here are some of the best seafood restaurants in Marathon, along with what makes them stand out:

  • Keys Fisheries – Famous for its fresh lobster Reuben sandwiches and seafood platters. Offers outdoor seating on the water and a casual bar with frozen drinks and beer. Great for a quintessential Keys seafood experience.
  • Castaway Waterfront Restaurant & Sushi Bar – Upscale casual dining with a wide seafood selection including mahi-mahi, yellowtail snapper, and fresh catch of the day. The bar has a full cocktail menu and wine selection. Views of the marina enhance the experience.
  • Burton’s Grill & Bar – Known for high-quality seafood and a full bar menu. Options range from grouper to shrimp and crab, with some creative chef specials. Offers indoor and outdoor seating.
  • Boathouse Restaurant – Located on the waterfront, specializing in local fish, seafood platters, and tropical drinks. Casual atmosphere and good for families or relaxed dinners.
  • Tranquility Bay Resort’s Sunset Grille – While part of a resort, it’s open to the public. Offers fresh seafood, steaks, and a solid cocktail menu with beautiful sunset views.

Tips for visiting seafood restaurants in Marathon:

  • Reservations are recommended for dinner, especially during high season (December–April).
  • Check if the restaurant has a raw bar or stone crab specials — local seafood seasonality can offer the best catches.
  • Outdoor seating often provides better views and a more relaxed Keys experience.

In summary, for fresh seafood with a decent drink menu, Keys Fisheries for casual dining, Castaway for upscale seafood, and Burton’s or the Boathouse for a more traditional sit-down meal are all excellent choices. Make sure to enjoy some tropical cocktails or frozen drinks to complement the local seafood flavors.


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