9 Timeless and Iconic Historic Restaurants in Key West: Relive the Nostalgia and Savor the Exquisite Cuisine

Looking for some delicious dining options in Key West? You’re in luck! This vibrant island is home to some of the most historic restaurants in Key West, offering a culinary experience unlike any other.

With sunsets, beaches, and a one-of-a-kind nightlife, Key West is a true gem of the Conch Republic – and the food scene is no exception. Whether you’re a casual tourist or a die-hard foodie, you’ll find plenty to love among the island’s iconic eateries.

From hidden gems to local favorites, we’ve rounded up nine of the best historic restaurants in Key West that you won’t want to miss. So get ready to indulge in some seriously delicious cuisine and experience the best this little slice of paradise offers!

Experience Key West’s Charm and Cuisine at Blue Heaven: A Historic Restaurant and Local Favorite

No trip to Key West is complete without a visit to Blue Heaven! This beloved eatery is a must-see for both locals and tourists, offering a truly unique dining experience.

Nestled in the heart of the historic Bahama District, Blue Heaven boasts a charming outdoor atmosphere that perfectly captures the spirit of Key West. Since opening its doors in 1992, this restaurant has been serving delicious Caribbean cuisine that will tantalize your taste buds. From spicy jerk dishes to succulent surf and turf, there’s something for everyone on the menu – including vegetarian options.

But what really sets Blue Heaven apart is its lively courtyard, live music, and free-roaming animals. Keep your eyes peeled for chickens and cats as you savor your meal! For the best experience, we recommend making a dinner reservation – and be sure to save room for the Mile High Key Lime Pie. It’s a true crowd-pleaser!

Step into Key West’s Past and Savor the Flavor at Sloppy Joe’s: A Legendary Bar and Restaurant

Looking for a taste of Key West’s past? Look no further than Sloppy Joe’s, one of the most iconic and beloved historic restaurants in Key West. This cozy spot has been a local favorite since 1933, serving up delicious pub fare and drinks with a distinctive island twist. The bar was even a favorite of Ernest Hemingway himself, who frequented the venue with his friends and was considered a staple there.

Today, you can’t miss the neon signs on the corner of Duvall and Greene as you step inside and soak up the atmosphere. The menu boasts Cuban sandwiches, shrimp po’boys, conch fritters, and even pizza, while the tap room offers a rotating selection of craft beers – many from local Florida breweries. And let’s not forget the extensive cocktail menu, featuring a wide array of frozen tropical favorites.

Don’t miss the chance to experience the historic charm and flavor of Sloppy Joe’s on your next visit to Key West!

Indulge in Old-World Charm and Mouthwatering Steaks at Pepe’s Café: A Key West Institution Since 1909

Looking for a taste of Key West history? Look no further than Pepe’s Café and Steakhouse, the oldest restaurant in Key West and a hidden gem of the Keys.

With a menu offering American classics like oysters, salads, chicken, burgers, sandwiches, and steaks, Pepe’s has something for everyone. Harry Truman was a regular in the 1940s, adding to the historic nature of the venue.

Don’t miss their delicious breakfast menu, which includes everything from omelets and Eggs Benedict to a New York strip steak. And with all their bread made in-house daily, along with their own salad dressings and fresh-squeezed juice, you know you’re getting the freshest ingredients possible.

Step inside, and you’ll find a nautical-themed interior dotted with cool historic photographs from the earlier eras of Key West. Plus, as a bonus, Pepe’s is also pet-friendly! Don’t miss the chance to indulge in old-world charm and mouthwatering steaks at this Key West institution.

Fine Seafood and Waterfront Views at A&B Lobster House in Key West 

Looking for a fancy night out or a place to mark a special milestone? Look no further than A & B Lobster House! This elegant restaurant offers a fine dining experience in a city known for its laid-back vibe. With waterfront seating on the patio, the restaurant provides a romantic atmosphere with stunning views. Having served the Historic District for over 70 years, A & B Lobster House is a longstanding Key West dining scene icon.

If you’re looking for another spot to unwind after a long day, check out Berlin’s, the restaurant’s cigar and cocktail bar, for a nightcap and some sweets. Remember that dining at A & B Lobster House has a higher price tag, but it’s well worth the investment for a special occasion.

Authentic Cuban Cuisine and Live Music at El Meson De Pepe in Key West 

If you’re an adventurous eater looking to go beyond seafood in Key West, the historic El Meson De Pepe is a must-visit! This family-owned and operated Cuban restaurant has been a beloved community staple since 1985 and is widely considered one of the best in the Florida Keys.

Located on Mallory Square, it’s the perfect spot to soak up the vibrant nightlife that characterizes Key West’s iconic Sunset Celebrations while savoring some tapas or authentic Ropa Vieja from the patio. And if you’re in the mood for a drink, the outdoor bar offers a full menu of specialty cocktails that are sure to delight you.

With friendly staff and a warm, welcoming atmosphere, El Meson De Pepe is a happy haven for foodies and locals alike. Just be sure to arrive early, as like many other popular restaurants in Key West, they don’t take reservations. So why not treat yourself to a taste of history at this iconic Key West gem?

Step Back in Time and Savor a Delicious Meal at Two Friends Patio Restaurant – A Must-Visit among Historic Restaurants in Key West!

If you’re looking for a dining experience that combines delectable American cuisine with a rich slice of Key West’s past, Two Friends Patio Restaurant is the place to be! This historic restaurant began as a saloon in 1887 and was transformed into the iconic eatery it is today in 1967.

With a storied past that includes the workplace of the first female bartender in Key West – Barbara Smith, who was hired in 1941, and being a favorite haunt of Mel Fisher, the famous treasure hunter who discovered the treasures of the Atocha off the coast in 1985, Two Friends Patio is a must-visit among historic restaurants in Key West.

Open seven days a week, Two Friends Patio serves up delicious breakfast, lunch, and dinner options that cater to all tastes. Their menu features a wide range of dishes, including burgers, sandwiches, and mouth-watering seafood options. Be sure to try their specialty – the best Bloody Mary in Key West, according to both the restaurant and many locals! And with live music every night and karaoke on Fridays and Saturdays, Two Friends Patio is the perfect place to unwind and have some fun.

So why not make a date with history and satisfy your appetite at Two Friends Patio Restaurant? You won’t regret it!

Famous Key West Seafood at Its Best: Half Shell Raw Bar

Since 1972, Half Shell Raw Bar has been a must-visit seafood restaurant and a favorite among locals and tourists alike. Located in a former shrimp warehouse on the waterfront, this historic restaurant offers a breezy covered back deck where you can enjoy delicious seafood while watching boats sail into the harbor.

Their menu features a substantial raw bar section with various options, such as oysters, pink shrimp, middleneck clams, crab claws, and lobster tails. Don’t miss their specialty, the conch ceviche, which is simply delightful!

But Half Shell Raw Bar is not just a restaurant; it also has a fish market that sells the freshest fish, shrimp, and crab for you to cook at home. With a casual, laid-back ambiance and fantastic food, Half Shell Raw Bar is the perfect spot for seafood lovers looking for a memorable dining experience in Key West.

Fine Dining with Ocean Views at Louie’s Backyard in Key West 

Louie’s Backyard is one of the historic restaurants in Key West. In 1971, Louie Signorelli transformed his oceanfront Victorian home into a small restaurant with twelve seats and a single waiter. Over time, the property underwent renovations, and in 1987, it became the Louie’s Backyard that’s known today.

One of the restaurant’s highlights is its multi-level afterdeck, which is located outside on the Old Bahama Channel, providing diners with picturesque ocean views of the sunset. It’s akin to having a dinner party on a back deck, except this one overlooks the Atlantic and serves handcrafted cocktails and wine by the glass.

The menu mainly features local fish and seafood dishes, with an emphasis on shrimp, lobster, and fresh fish that are bursting with flavor. However, for those looking for inland tastes, the restaurant does offer chicken and steak entrees.

Discover the Lively Atmosphere and Entertainment at Hog’s Breath Saloon in Key West 

Looking for something other than seafood during your visit to historic restaurants in Key West? Look no further than Hog’s Breath Saloon, where pork is the main specialty. Along with typical bar food like nachos and wings, you can also enjoy fresh oysters and shrimp dip at their raw bar.

Since its establishment in Ft. Walden Beach, Hog’s Breath Saloon has been serving up delicious pulled pork sandwiches, tropical cocktails, and nightly live music at their Key West location since 1988.

Situated on Duvall Street in Old Town, Hog’s Breath Saloon offers a relaxed atmosphere that’s perfect for those looking for a lively honkytonk vibe. So, come on down and enjoy some great food, drinks, and entertainment at one of the liveliest spots in Key West!

Key West is a city that’s steeped in history and culture, and its historic restaurants are a testament to that. Whether you’re in the mood for fresh seafood, Cuban cuisine, or classic American fare, Key West has something for everyone.

From the laid-back atmosphere of Hog’s Breath Saloon to the elegant dining experience at Louie’s Backyard, these historic restaurants offer a glimpse into the city’s rich past and serve as a reminder of the enduring traditions that continue to thrive in Key West.

We hope this article has inspired you to explore some of the incredible historic restaurants in Key West and try out their unique offerings. And now, we want to hear from you! What’s your favorite historic restaurant in Key West, and what makes it special to you? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below, and let’s keep the conversation going!

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