Key West, Florida
The Keys To The Seas.
Lat. 24.555059 | Long. -81.779984
Monroe County
“The Conch Republic”
Key West (Spanish: Cayo Hueso) is an island in the Straits of Florida, within the U.S. state of Florida. Together with all or parts of the separate islands of Dredgers Key, Fleming Key, Sunset Key, and the northern part of Stock Island, it constitutes the City of Key West.
The Conch Republic.
Key Facts…
1. It momentarily seceded from the United States in 1982.
The so-called Conch Republic was established in response to the US Border Patrol setting up roadblocks that caused terrible traffic jams. Residents protested and the island’s “sovereign state of mind” became almost tangible. You’ll see the famous Conch Republic flag around the island, marked with a large conch. The motto? “We Seceded Where Others Failed.”
9 Other Things To Know About Key West…
2. It was Originally Called “Bone Island”
Spanish settlers referred to the island as “Cayo Hueso” – which roughly translates to Bone Island – and it wasn’t on accident [funny on a couple of levels]. Apparently the Spaniards were surprised by the sheer number of scattered bones around the island.
3. It Has the Most Bartenders Per Capita in the Nation
If you’re thirsty, you’re in good hands. In 2015, an analysis conducted by the website CareerBuilder found that the city had the highest concentration of bartenders in the US at 13.3 per 1,000 residents.
4. Temps Have Never Dipped Below 41 Degrees
What can we say? Our iguanas like it warm. Plus, paradise should have average winter temps in the 70s.
5. Pan American Airways Was Founded Here
That’s right - Pan American World Airways was founded on the humble southernmost island. Its first flight to Cuba was in 1927 and the company only took off from there.
6. Locals are called “Conchs”
Key West-born locals are “conchs,” and those who are locals but were born elsewhere are referred to as “fresh-water conchs.”
7. The Island’s Roosters and Hens Caused a “Chicken War”
Roosters and hens have roamed the islands since the 1800s, when Cubans and Bahamians brought over the fowl for food and cockfighting tournaments. When the sport was outlawed in the 1970s, roosters and hens had nothing to do except graze and multiply.
8. It’s Closer to Havana than it is to Miami
Cuba may be a world apart, but it’s roughly 90 miles from Key West. Miami is approximately 160.
9. The New Year is Marked with a Conch Shell Drop
The iconic Sloppy Joe’s Bar hosts a New Year staple by dropping a giant conch from its roof every year. Revelers join together on Duval Street at midnight to ring in the new year in perfect Key West fashion.
10. It’s home to the smallest parade in the universe
What’s more over-the-top than something so unnecessarily miniature? As part of Fantasy Fest, the whimsical smallest parade takes place in a theater. The mini procession of tiny floats make their way down a miniature Duval Street.
U.S. Route 1 Down To Zero.
Key West is the southernmost city in the contiguous United States and the westernmost island connected by highway in the Florida Keys.
Duval Street, its main street, is 1.1 miles (1.8 km) in length in its 14-block-long crossing from the Gulf of Mexico to the Straits of Florida and the Atlantic Ocean.
Key West is the southern terminus of U.S. Route 1, State Road A1A, the East Coast Greenway and, before 1935, the Florida East Coast Railway.
Key West is a port of call for many passenger cruise ships. The Key West International Airport provides airline service. Naval Air Station Key West is an important year-round training site for naval aviation due to the tropical weather, which is also the reason Key West was chosen as the site of President Harry S. Truman's Winter White House.
The central business district is located along Duval Street and includes much of the northwestern corner of the island.
Quintessential
Tucked in Historic Old Town on Key West’s serene Atlantic Coast lies an oasis in the middle of the party. Choose between two distinct options for your stay: The Southernmost Beach Resort or The Guest Houses at Southernmost Beach Resort. Both options are just a short walk from Duval Street’s eclectic shops, famed nightlife, and signature architecture
A stay at the newly renovated Southernmost Beach Resort combines modern luxury with tradition offering lush gardens, endless sea views, and sandy beaches. Or choose The Guest Houses for a perfect blend of history and contemporary coastal décor, with The Avalon built in 1885 and Duval Gardens dating back to 1920. Also available is La Mer and Dewey House, which offers elegant turn-of-the-century Victorian luxury blended with a charming bed and breakfast experience.
Winslow’s Bungalows
Downright Cool.
Casa Marina
Private Beach.
The Perry Hotel
And Marina.
Sunset Key Cottages
Private Island Off Key West.
MORE THAN A BOUTIQUE
A collection of sustainable and eco-conscious Key West boutiques, including a wellness café on upper Duval Street in Key West.
Flying Fish Charters is owned and operated by Capt. Jamie Connell. He grew up working as a mate on head boats and charters boats in the Northeast. Capt. Jamie moved to the Florida Keys in his early twenties to pursue a career as a guide. He spent a couple years running light tackle and offshore boats out of Key West, before accepting a job on St. John in the Virgin Islands. He guided there for 2 years, targeting Marlin, Tuna, Mahi Mahi, Wahoo, and other species. Capt. Jamie moved back to the Keys to establish Flying Fish Charters so he can offer the best experience to anglers pursuing gamefish on fly or light tackle.
Lots of Charters. Lots of Options.
Fine Dining Key West
Often rated the best restaurant in Key West, no one does fine dining in Key West like Cafe Marquesa. Like Charleston and other great ports of the South, Key West offers endless inspiration for chefs. Once a stop on trade routes to the Caribbean, the island developed a signature cuisine that’s practically an open book for flavors. Pair this with the bounty from two bodies of water and the signatures of great chefs who have dedicated time here and a compelling cuisine emerges. From its inception, Café Marquesa has led the way in expressing a unique, coastal cuisine. Their kitchen combines the finest seafood, meats, and produce with classic preparations and creativity. They offer fine dining with an authentic, homespun essence, like freshly baked bread and desserts made daily in-house.
The Bull & Whistle Bar
And The Garden of Eden
The Whistle Bar features a large squared bar, pool tables, games and (most importantly) a balcony overlooking Duval Street. The balcony offers some of the best people watching and is a popular place to get some fresh air and warm breeze, day or night. The wrap around porch gives you some distance from the crowds of Duval and Caroline St. with the same entertainment. Though a bit hidden away, The Whistle is a longtime darling of the local party crowd, and its honky-tonk feel welcomes anyone. Think of it as your friendly watering hole with all the dive bar charm.
On the first floor is The Bull – a large space with a long stretch of bar, table seating and a small stage where local musicians perform nightly. The Bull is one of the few remaining open-air bars of Key West, stepping in is like stepping back into the Old Town heritage of the island. It has a genuine carousing feel making it is easy to pop in, grab a drink and watch the crowds go by.
If you saddle up at the Bull make sure to take a gander at the walls. That's right. The history of Key West, it's icons, and the events that make up the magic of the island are hand painted along the walls. From Hemingway to Tennessee to Castro, they are always at the Bull.
Clothing Optional
On the roof is another bar that has made more than a few people blush. Known as the Garden of Eden, this rooftop bar is “clothing optional” – and they mean it. The Garden of Eden gives you a bird's eye view of the island among other things...
During the day the GOE welcomes sun bathers with lounge chairs and umbrellas. Need to get rid of that farmers tan? You've found the place. The staff is friendly and welcoming whether patrons decide to bare it all or just enjoy the view. No cameras or cell phones are allowed so inhibitions are happily left at the door. If you go, expect to see lots of skin from all walks of life!
Nightly music with a DJ so you can dance under the stars and work on your "moon burn" any night of the week.
305-296-4545
224 Duval Street Key West, FL 33040
Museums & Such…
Olde Town Trolly Tours
HARRY S. TRUMAN LITTLE WHITE HOUSE
A place where an array of leaders, legendary inventors, dignitaries, visionaries and many prestigious visitors were drawn to throughout its history, Key West’s Harry S. Truman Little White House holds a special place in the history of America. Constructed in 1890 to serve as the naval station’s command headquarters during the Spanish-American War, World War I and World War II, this historic site later became the second White House.
Jean-Pierre Klifa is a Parisian fashion designer creating signature prints to accompany his classic bucket handbag.
As an online retailer, they strive to offer their customers unique garments and accessories. They design and manufacture all of their items. Their seamstresses are located in the Orient. They are pleased to announce that all of their pieces are created with UPF 50+ fabric, blocking 98% of the suns ultraviolet rays!
Key West Pottery
Originated in 2009 by the artists Adam Russell and Kelly Lever, Key West Potter [or "Honest Works Island Pottery" as it was originally called] was always meant as a joint endeavor between two creatives for one succinct purpose - freedom.
Freedom in all the obvious ways we conceive of it - free use of time, financial freedom, creative freedom, etc... The resulting decade of intense collaboration has brought about the realization that they have also achieved another type of freedom - liberation from the confines of a single mind.
They are a unique blend.
Part traditional production pottery - tableware and traditional function. Vessels being created in house by the hundreds.
Part fine art studio - monumental outdoor sculpture and interior decor to create places and visions.
SEVEN DECADES OF DECADENCE
Photo: Nick Doll
As with many of the greatest stories, it all started with a lifelong friendship. Alonzo Cothron & Berlin Felton had a vision to transform Key West’s waterfront – and had the heart, talent, and determination to bring that vision to life more than 70 years ago.
Together, Alonzo & Berlin created an exceptional waterfront fine dining destination, and what is now a Key West institution. Balconies once overlooking a smattering of shrimp fishing fleets now attract the attention of luxury yachts and charter vessels.
From humble beginnings, to a 70 year legacy of guests sharing treasured memories and unforgettable experiences here. They proudly stand today as a testament to the longevity of excellence – a jewel in the coastal crown, and a part of Key West tradition.
Old Town Location Open
600 Frances St
FURNITURE | APPAREL | GIFTS | ACCESSORIES
Latitudes
A Taste of Island life at Sunset Key Cottages.
At Sunset Key Cottages, there are plenty of ways to savor the flavors of island life. In the morning, enjoy a complimentary breakfast basket delivered to your door. Every afternoon, listen for the bell of “Sweets Served Daily,” an island ritual where treats for children and adults are served by the ice cream man. At sunset, kick back with a tropical cocktail at Flipper’s Pool Bar. And for dinner, tuck into gracious, award-winning fine dining at Latitudes.
Local: 305.292.5300
245 Front Street, Key West, FL 33040
Part general, part dry goods store, Tucker’s Provisions provides key west gifts for fishing outings, beach days with family, first dates, and 50th anniversaries. It recalls a time when handshakes meant agreement, and all a person needed was the one place that seemed to have everything.
Born from a time when people shopped for quality in Key West, Tucker’s Provisions collects together objects and apparel that stand the test of time. If you like a classic way of dressing, an aesthetic that harks back to the days of cocktails and dancing on the weekends, sturdy items for everyday use and finding everything you need under one roof, Tucker’s Provisions will feel like coming home.
Places
Southernmost Point & Bouy.
The buoy was erected in 1983 by the City of Key West to establish that from the corner of South and Whitehead Streets it is a mere 90 miles to Cuba.
The Southernmost Point Buoy in Key West is an anchored concrete buoy marking the southernmost point in the continental United States, the lowest latitude land of contiguous North American states.
Corner of Duval & Greene Since 1937
The Hemingway Connection
Hemingway arrived on a steam ship from Havana in April of 1928 with his second wife, Pauline, after a bone-chilling winter in Paris and an ocean crossing from Marseilles. He had already published “The Sun Also Rises” two years before and was working on the manuscript that would become “A Farewell to Arms”. READ THE INTERESTING HISTORY OF SLOPPY JOE’S.
Glazed Donuts
Opened on Easter Sunday of 2012 in Key West, FL, Glazed Donuts is the southernmost donut shop in The Continental United States.
At Glazed Donuts they believe that eating should be one of the highlights of your day – every day – and no matter what you choose to eat, it should be made with thought, and care, which is how they work at Glazed Donuts.
MEGAN PIDGEON A 2007 graduate of The Culinary Institute of America's Baking and Pastry Program, Megan has worked under some of the nations most recognized pastry chefs. She externed under James Beard award winner Richard Leech at Park Avenue Cafè and spent two years in the Napa Valley working under James Beard award winner Nicole Plue. Megan is a 2016 winner of star chefs rising star award.
JONATHAN PIDGEON A 2007 graduate of The Culinary Institute of America's culinary arts program, Jonathan has spent time on the competition BBQ circuit, as a high volume off premise caterer, and was the executive chef of Blackfin Bistro in Key West, prior to opening Glazed Donuts.
(305) 294-9142
420 Eaton St., Key West FL 33040
Jimmy Buffett’s
Margaritaville
It's in the tropics somewhere between the Port of Indecision and Southwest of Disorder, but no parallels of latitude or longitude mark the spot exactly. You don't have to be a navigator to get there. Palm trees provide the camouflage, ocean breezes bring the seaplanes and sailboats, tourists and travelers. Passports are not required. Island music rules. No waiting lines for anything.
There is a beach and a thatched roof bar perched on the edge of the turquoise sea where you can always find a bar stool. There are lots of lies and loads of stories. It's a comical concoction that blends together like tequila, salt, and limes.
Where is Margaritaville?
It's in your mind.
(305) 292-1435
500 Duval St., Key West, FL 33040
Live A Life That Outlives You…
Hemingway Rum Company,
Papa’s Pilar Distillery
201 Simonton St. Key West, FL 33040
(the corner of Greene & Simonton)
305-414-8754
Hog’s Breath Saloon
“HOG’S BREATH IS BETTER THAN NO BREATH AT ALL!”
The Original Hog’s Breath Saloon was established in Ft. Walton Beach, FL, in 1976. It was the brain child of Jerry Dorminy, a Birmingham, Alabama expatriate who left the mountains for the sun and fun of the gulf coast of Florida. The first order of business was to organize a watering hole where he and his friends could hang out at night after a full day of sailing or fishing. It immediately became the place where all the local watermen and women partied long after dark and on weekends. Since the military had large training installations in the area, it didn’t take long for them to discover “The Breath” too. The logo was worked up with a local screen printer and the saying, “Hog’s breath is better than no breath at all” is a modified version of a saying Jerry’s grandmother used to say, “Bad breath is better than no breath at all.” The rest is history. Read More.
(305) 296-4222
400 Front Street, Key West, FL 33040
ECO-LUXURY ART & FURNITURE
At Washed Up Key West, they envision a future where the beauty of nature thrives alongside the legacy of generations. Their purpose is to salvage fallen trees from the Florida Keys, turning them into exquisite art and furniture, ensuring that nothing is wasted. This practice pays homage to the island way of life, a time when resourcefulness was a way of survival, and waste was a concept unknown.
They are committed to preserving the environment, one tree at a time. Every piece they create not only celebrates the natural world but also brings families closer together, threading together the past, present, and future. Through their work, they aim to leave a lasting impact on the world, one tree, one family, and one generation at a time.
Smoked BBQ
Located at the historic City Marina
With 20 years of experience in the restaurant business, their staff is excited to present their vision to you and all their guests. Their caring and committed staff will ensure you have a fantastic experience with them.
The Big Hog | $18.19
Pulled Pork piled high on a Kaiser bun with, their jalapeno mustard relish, Dill pickle, and topped with their southern style slaw, and drizzled with their signature Sweet Georgia sauce.
(305) 741-7409
1801 N Roosevelt Blvd, Key West, Florida 33040
Key West Legal Rum
Little Pearl
Fresh local seafood. Friendly neighborhood dining.
Nestled in the heart of Old Town and away from the bustling downtown streets of Key West, Florida, sits an excellent spot for fresh local catch and innovative cuisine with a tropical twist.
Photo: Wonderdog Studios
(305) 204-4762
632 Olivia St, Key West, Florida 33040
Key Lime Pie… Cocktail
CAN I USE RUM INSTEAD OF VODKA?
If you prefer rum based drinks then you can make a few modifications to this recipe. Instead of using whipped cream vodka, substitute a coconut rum and follow the rest of the recipe. You may even be able to find key lime rum, depending on where you live, and you would then skip the vodka and the lime juice. Try these variations, and don’t be afraid to tweak it by adding more or less of something until you find your perfect drink!
Equipment
Cocktail Shaker
Jigger
Martini glass
Shot glasses
Ingredients
¼ cup pineapple juice
1 ounce fresh lime juice (1 lime)
1 ¼ ounce whipped cream vodka
2 ounces RumChata liqueur
1 to 2 drops green food coloring
Garnish
Graham cracker crumbs
Whipped cream
Lime wedges or wheels
Instructions
Fill a cocktail shaker with ice. Add the pineapple juice, lime juice, whipped cream vodka, RumChata, and green food coloring Secure the lid tightly and shake vigorously until the shaker is cold, about 30 seconds.
Spread some graham crackers crumbs out on a small plate. Run a lime wedge around the rim of a martini glass and dip the rim into the graham cracker crumbs.
Pour the cocktail into the prepared glass. Top with a dollop of whipped cream and sprinkle with additional graham cracker crumbs, if desired. Garnish with a lime wheel and serve immediately.
Notes
You can skip the food coloring if you prefer, but the cocktail will look white and not green in any way.
El Meson De Pepe
Famous Sunset Celebrations
In 1979, Pepe began working at the “Cuban Club” in Key West, Florida and simultaneously opened their local family-run grocery store, Tony’s Grocery. The Diaz Family firmly planted their roots within the Conch community and instantly gained notoriety for their delicious deli sandwiches and Cuban Coffee.
In 1986, it was time for Pepe’s vision to become reality as the family sold the grocery store and opened the first “El Meson De Pepe” on Duval Street. The restaurant became a staple within Key West as the home of authentic Cuban Cuisine. As the years went by the family and the business continued to grow. In 1997, seeking a bigger location to accommodate their growth, El Meson De Pepe found a new home in Mallory Square.
For over 30 years, Chef Pepe Diaz and his family have been dedicated to pristine quality, authentic Cuban Cuisine, and the preservation of Cuban Conch Heritage in Key West.
305-295-2620
410 Wall Street, Mallory Square, Key West, 33040
Blue Heaven
Opened by a pair of free spirits, Suanne and Richard, Blue Heaven has become its own well-known destination in Key West. The chickens and cats roaming the premises are almost as famous as the food. Blue Heaven is al fresco dining, Key West style: canopies of tropical foliage, improvised art (a leopard-spotted mannequin, a rooster graveyard, jolly-colored coconuts and trap floats) and a sail strung between trees providing shade. But don’t let the whimsical décor mislead you: the food is taken seriously. One taste of the blueberry pancakes, carrot and curry soup, miso-marinated eggplant salad, or scallops Provençale and you’ll have no doubt the ingredients and the gentle time it takes to prepare fine food are the priorities. The menu barely changes (not even the specials, except to offer seasonal stone crab claws), which means that Caribbean shrimp deglazed with red stripe, Jamaican jerk chicken or pan-sautéed yellowtail with citrus beurre Blanc will be there for you next time, too — even if the reserve selections on the notable wine list may change. Heavenly indeed, and home of quite possibly the best key lime pie the island offers, with its mountains of baked meringue topping.
Located in historic Bahama Village, Blue Heaven, one of the most casual of key west restaurants, features indoor & outdoor dining, live entertainment and American, Caribbean and vegetarian cuisine.
(305) 296-8666
729 Thomas St, Key West, Florida 33040
El Siboney Restaurant
It may look like nothing special, but don't be fooled - this is an old-school Cuban restaurant with terrific food.
El Siboney changed owners in 2004 and is now owned and operated by the de la Cruz family along with many of the same employees that have helped make El Siboney the popular destination that is remains today. They are proud of the recognition that their restaurant has received, including Key West's Best Cuban Restaurant every year since 1993. But most of all, they are proud that so many locals and visitors have had a rewarding experience at their restaurant.
They are committed to upholding El Siboney's reputation as Key West's top restaurant for authentic Cuban food, Paella, and local seafood. They hope you enjoy the food, the service, and the friendly atmosphere that their customers have come to expect at their restaurant.
(305) 296-4184
900 Catherine St, Key West, Florida 33040
Cuban Coffee Queen
As The Story Goes…
“One day in Cuba, I met a lady who made the best coffee and Cuban toast. She told us stories and showed me how to make a real cafe con leche. I will never forget the Cuban Coffee Queen.”
(305) 292-4747
284 Margaret St., Key West, Florida 33040
AUTHENTIC KEY LIME PIE
Ingredients
Pie Filling (double quantities for deep dish pie)
4 egg yolks
20-25 key limes, juiced (about ½ cup)
14 oz can sweetened condensed milk
Graham Cracker Crust (optional gluten-free nut crust recipe can be found in notes)
2 cups graham cracker crumbs
5 Tablespoons sugar
½ cup butter melted
Garnishes: whipped cream, lime slices (optional)
Instructions
Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
Graham Cracker Crust
Prepare crust by combining the graham cracker crumbs and sugar with melted butter.
Press into bottom and up sides of an 8" pie plate or, if doubling filling, press into a 9" deep dish pie plate.
At this stage you can either chill the crust for 1 hour or bake in 350 degree oven for 8 minutes and let cool.
Key Lime Filling
Combine egg yolks, key lime juice and sweetened condensed milk.
Pour key lime pie filling into prepared crust. Bake for 15 minutes.
Cool on wire rack then refrigerate.
Just before serving, pipe whipped cream into mounds then garnish with lime slices.
Notes
Gluten-free Nut Crust
Ingredients: 2-½ cups ground pecans, ¼ teaspoon cinnamon, ⅓ cup sugar, 4 Tablespoons melted butter
Directions: Mix all the ingredients in a medium bowl. Press into the bottom and up sides of an 8" pie plate. Refrigerate at least 30 minutes prior to filling.
