VACATION HOMES OF KEY WEST
Invites You to Enjoy
Our Select List of Locally Owned and Operated Island Establishments and Businesses
~ PLUS ~
Unique Points of Interest We Recommend
Dear Guest,
The tiny island of Key West is blessed with an amazing variety of fine international cuisine, nationally recognized music and entertainment, beautiful art galleries, creative shops and services, and historic museums, parks, and gardens. In the list that follows we reveal to you selections from our own personal 'well worn path' from decades of living and loving in Key West, with our hopes that you may discover why through the continual changes brought with time, we continue to love this island so much. And while we think our list is an excellent representation of some of the most fabulous and remarkable locally owned and operated establishments, in no way is it meant to exclude other equally superb local businesses.
Enjoy! Carpe Diem!
Cindy Rhoades, President
Vacation Homes of Key West
FAVORITE FOOD AND DRINK
("Listed at Random - In No Particular Order")
Nine One Five:
915 Duval. (305)296-0669 - www.915duval.com
Don't Miss This One!! Created by owner Stuart Kemp, this fine European style tapas restaurant is a recent winner of the James Beard Foundation Award for culinary excellence in New York. Located in a gorgeously renovated Victorian house with minimalist elegant interior, this is a great place to ‘see-and-be-seen' on the town. The creative chef offers an eclectic variety of tapas, and full fare of gourmet food and fine wine selection to choose from. Everything is delicious. One of my all time favorites is the Tuna Dome. Dining inside or outside on the porches the overlook Upper Duval St. Great retro-design club room upstairs overlooking Duval St., ‘Point 5', can be rented for private events. Excellent service. Friendly attentive staff.
Camille's:
1202 Simonton St. (305) 296-4811 - www.camilleskeywest.com
Just one block off Upper Duval St.: I eat at Camille's consistently more than any other restaurant in town. This restaurant has been voted a locals favorite for years and years - breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Owner Denise Chelekis describes their fare as "Exotic Family Cooking with No Boundaries." Menu changes daily - chef is inspired and makes some of the best hollandaise sauce you will ever taste, and his soups are noteworthy. Go for the eggs-benedict, and choose from traditional to smoked salmon. Take the family or meet up with friends. Delightful décor. Excellent café con leche. Full bar, great wine selection. Private room available for special events.
Banana Cafe:
1215 Duval. (294-7227) - Authentic Cuisine Française.
A definite must! Open for breakfast and lunch = my favorite place to indulge in brunch. Owner chef Dani is from France and knows the art of creating the perfect food with the perfect setting for breakfast and lunch par excellence. The menu is fresh, pure, and the scene is so relaxing it is easy for locals to take it for granted. Crepes and sauces are the best you will find any where, delicious sandwiches on French baguette, delightful salads, fresh squeezed juices, champagne and coffee. Set in newly renovated building overlooking Upper Duval St, you can sit inside or outside on the porch looking to beautiful gallery stores with a slow parade of people strolling by. Go for brunch and have a mimosa. And chase it with a café au lait. Friendly staff and excellent service.
Blue Heaven:
729 Thomas St. (305)296-8666 - www.blueheavenkw.homestead.com/Blue_Heaven_Restaurant_Key_West.html
You really haven't had a true Key West dining experience until you try this. Without a doubt one of Key West's most unique and most popular restaurants. Come to Bahama Village and dine under the trees in an artist's village among the resident cats and... yes.. Key West chickens - there is inside seating too. Gourmet food is excellent, flavorful, colorful and always fresh. I love the fresh fish dishes the best. Wine Spectator has given this unique restaurant its Award of Excellence! Full Bar in the tree Garden, plus a gallery and gift store featuring local artists. One of most memorable dining experiences you will ever have.
Mangoes:
700 Duval St. (305) 292-4606
A Key West tradition this ever popular downtown restaurant continues to give locals and tourist alike tropical dining at its best. In the open-air, and on the highly visible corner of Duval and Angela Streets this is the best place in town to eat and see-and-be-seen. Big outdoor patio space covered with large dining umbrellas. Air conditioned inside seating plus the added feature of a "secret" upstairs local scene. I go for the mozzarella roulade wrapped in spinach. The balsamic dressing is the best. Great outside bar overlooking the street.
Louie's Backyard and the Afterdeck Bar:
700 Waddell St. (305)294-1061 - www.louiesbackyard.com
Two of the best places on the island. Louie's is housed in a perfectly renovated Greek Revival Victorian Key West home that is on the National Register of Historic Places. The Afterdeck is on the expansive ocean deck in the back yard.
LOUIES BACK YARD - RESTAURANT: Offers Key West's finest ocean front dining experience, this special place is a favorite with locals, visitors, and must-stop for celebrity guests such as Jimmy Buffet. Executive Chef Doug Shook offers award winning fine international / Caribbean Cuisine with a specialty in locally caught fish. I love his Poached Eggs with Blue Crab Cakes and Roasted Chile Hollandaise, and Florida Lobster Braised in Truffle Butter with Spinach & Prosciutto.
THE AFTERDECK BAR: The After Deck has a long and famous history, and ‘ritual grounds' where seasoned colorful ‘old time' Key West characters convene to ponder the events of the day. Jimmy Buffet's early songs were inspired and written. This is special spot on this earth with a rare view and intimate feel of the ocean. Sunset, moonrise, and star gazing experiences are unsurpassed. I go for sunset cocktail hour several times a week. It's the perfect place to take a breath and ponder the good things in life.
Santiago's Bodega:
207 Petronia. (305) 296-7691- www.santiagosbodega.com
So much fun! New-Age / Tropical-European Dining Experience. Gourmet tapas menu, excellent food. The delicious sangria flows and you can choose red or white. Fashionable intimate dining room with romantic club-like atmosphere and you can also sit outside on the covered porch and watch real life in Bahama Village go by. Excellent service with friendly staff.
Ambrosia:
1401 Simonton St. (305)293-0304
Authentic Japanese Cuisine & Sushi Bar. Outstanding fare. Absolutely stunning modern abstract upscale fashionable modern interior with waterfall and kinetic art. Both the food and décor tickle the senses. Some locals call it Key West's "gourmet sushi bar."
Origami Japanese Restaurant:
1075 Duval St. (305)294-0092
Feels like home to me. Located in Duval Square. Casual dining, you can belly up to the bar. Eat inside or in the fabulous plaza garden complete with tall shade tree garden and talking parrots in the back ground. Sushi Bar, tempura, teriyaki. Local's favorite. Kiyoto, Owner & chef - 20 years in Key West.
Cafe Sole:
1029 Southard St. - (305)294-0230 - www.cafesole.com
Romantic intimate little French-Caribbean restaurant in residential neighborhood famous for locally caught seafood embellished with a French mastery of sauces. Chef John Correa refined his skills in France and created a unique Key West menu unlike any on the island. Famous for his preparation of rare hog snapper, and yellow tail, he also offers authentic classic preparations like Duck L'Orange, Rack of Lamb, and Lobster Bouillaise. Great wine selection. Indoor and outdoor garden seating. Excellent service.
La Trattoria:
524 Duval Street. (305)296-1075 - www.latrattoria.us
Fine Italian dining. Wonderful food, excellent atmosphere ~ feels a little like being in Italy. A perfect place for a special night out to celebrate a birthday or anniversary. Everything is delicious and I always have a hard time choosing. Great wine selection. Street side dining room and bar with great view of Duval St. stays open late with a limited menu. It adjoins Virgilio's bar in the back on Applerouth Lane, a local's favorite music venue and outstanding chocolate martinis.
Opera Italian Restaurant:
613 Duval St. (305)295-2705 - www.operarestaurant.com
Down a little walking street off-Duval. Intimate setting. Original Authentic Italian Cuisine - specializing in Northern. "America's top 10 Italian Restaurants" by Zagat Survey. I usually always go for the Spaghetti alle Vongole, but everything is excellent. The garlic rolls are dreamlike. Intimate Italian décor setting. Limited seating. Excellent Service.
Antonia's:
615 Duval St. (305)294-6565 - www.antoniaskeywest.com
Outstanding food and service. Big open spacious dining room creates a lively yet intimate atmosphere. Great spot to plan a dinner for a large group. Full bar. Established Key West favorite and always a sure bet for full fare Fine Italian dining. Great wine selection. (We alternate between La Trattoria, Antonia's, and Opera for Italian and love them all - but you have to be sure to go to the gym or run along the beach if you do this on a regular basis!)
Café Marquesa:
600 Fleming St. (305) 292-1919 - www.marquesa.com
1st-Class talented chefs offer beautiful presentations of select "Classic Contemporary American" gourmet cuisine at Key West's finest Marquesa Hotel in classy intimate dining setting in 5-Star Hotel down town Old Town.
Pepe's Cafe:
806 Caroline Street. (305)294-7192 - www.pepescafe.net
Right on the famous Key West Historic Seaport near the Key West Harbor Walk. Absolutely some of the best casual island charm of any of our Key West establishments - for some folks this special spot IS Key West dining! Sitting in the courtyard under a giant tree with a crystal chandelier makes me feel a little like I am in St. Barth's and sitting inside reminds me of a wooden pub in Bermuda. One of Key West's oldest and consistently popular establishments. 'Caribbean American' gourmet style fare - from omelets to home-style soups, from juicy burgers and steaks to fresh fish. The best fresh squeezed orange juice, and did I say GREAT Bloody Mary's to start the day! Full Bar.
B.O.'s Fish Wagon:
801 Caroline St. (305)294-927 (On the Key West Historic Seaport)
Since 1988 Buddy Owen (B.O.) has been servin' up one of the very best island fresh fish sandwiches in Key West. Don't be shocked when you first see this cookin' shack - this is real Key West authentic and worth the stop. B.O. starts with the freshest local fish (usually grouper or mahi mahi) he can find and melds it with special Key Lime Sauce on fresh baked Cuban Bread and the melt-in-your-mouth taste scrumptious! Dishes are served up with some fresh cabbage slaw and fries. For another delicious Caribbean style treat go for the conch fritters. Wine, beer, variety of non-alcoholic drinks.
Harpoon Harry's:
832 Caroline Street. (305)294-8744
Many Key West local characters meet here 'bright and early' for breakfast everyday and the late risers make it for lunch. This is a real slice of Key West life where you'll see 'The Piano Man,' Capt. Dave, Dink Bruce, and a regular selection of colorful characters and artists - mixed in with other locals, military, and tourists lucky enough to find the place. Whether you're looking for a big pile of French Toast with powdered sugar, biscuits and sausage gravy, a fresh fruit cup, a scrumptious sandwich, or just a cup of strong cafe con leche and maybe a stiff Bloody Mary, you'll get it here. Real authentic Key West restaurant right on the Key West Historic Seaport at the Key West Harbor Walk. Great atmosphere, outstanding service, full bar. Open at night too so you can sit and watch the harbor as you cocktail.
Mangia Mangia:
900 Southard St. (305)294-2469 - www.mangia-mangia.com
Fresh homemade pasta made on premises everyday and the sauces are 'to die for' with so much to choose - from marinara, to meat sauce, from alfredo to seafood sauces. Their Broccoli Rabe is famous and don't miss their Burschetta marinated in extra virgin olive oil. Set in a unique and one of the most charming old renovated Victorian homes in residential neighborhood. Eat in the house or out in the patio garden. Great wine bar and fine wine selection. Very popular with locals and tourists - there always seems to be a line of people spilling out the door. Excellent friendly service.
Michaels:
532 Margaret Street. (305)295-1300 - www.michaelskeywest.com
If a mouth watering steak is on your mind go here. Michaels' steaks are 100% prime beef, flown in from Chicago by particular chef owners of this outstanding establishment, Michael and Melanie Wilson. Excellent fresh seafood specialties, with selections that change nightly, depending on the best catch of the day. This is a first-class steak house in a charming remodeled cottage and garden setting in residential neighborhood off Southard St. One of the finer Key West restaurants. Local's favorite. Full bar in the garden. You can also get fondue at the bar. Excellent service.
MARTIN'S:
917 Duval St. (305)295-0111. Martin's has been on Key West for over 20 years, has a definite local following, and has always remained one of my all time favorite places to eat a decadent gourmet Sunday brunch and drink espresso and mimosas at the same time. The gourmet eggs benedict menu is fantastically unique. I usually go for the crab cake eggs benedict and my husband usually goes for the filet mignon or black forest eggs benedict. They're also well known for their Bellini's and they have some very delicious German dishes and they have a fabulous French Toast. Martin's new location on Duval St. has a very chic island-cosmopolitan flare with both inside and outside with a view of Duval St. plus intimate garden dining in the back. Open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
SQUARE ONE:
1075 Duval #C-12. (305)296-4300 www.squareonerestaurant.com Fine dining in elegant dining room with white starched table cloths and fresh flowers. Chefs prepare exquisite specialties such as Long Island Peking Breast of Duckling, Australian Spring Rack of Lamb, Roasted Local Black Grouper and Crisp Skin Yellowtail Snapper. Live piano to entertain you. You can arrange to stage a private party here.
Matthessen 4th of July:
1110 White St. (305)294-8089
If you were a kid in the 40's 50's or 60's you'll feel like you stepped back in time to an ‘old fashioned soda fountain'. Red white and blue vintage-style interior - comfy ‘tuck and roll' booths. Outstandingly delicious HUGE burgers and yummy fries and about the best milk shakes and malts in town. I love to take the little kids there with their friends for all around comfort food. I remember what it was like to be 10 years old when I go in there. Local's favorite, Family Fun, Friendly Service.
Salute:
1000 Atlantic Blvd.(305)292-1117 (Right on Higgs Beach near West Martello Gardens)
A must experience... Key West Unique! Fun and Caribbean laid back festive casual beach atmosphere is created in a special beach-scene setting like none other on the island - or nowhere else in the U.S. for that matter! Enjoy a fabulous view of the ocean on the Southside of the island of Key West. Fun to watch beach volley ball players in the daytime. Great fusion of fresh food choices, for brunch, lunch, and dinner. Full bar. Good choice to meet up with friends and take the family. Our grand-daughter Lauren loves to play on the beach while we are waiting for our food to be prepared. Local's favorite.
Taste of Greece:
1101 Truman Ave. - Mile Marker One. (305)293-6694
Authentic Greek Cooking-Mediterranean Market, Baker, & Deli. Casual deli atmosphere ~ theatre kitchen. All cooking is done by Greek Chefs and their family members. You won't find Greek food any better of fresher or more authentic than this. The chef is an "inspired cook" and the deserts vary and are unbelievably delicious. One of our staff spent a month in Greece and raved about the authenticity of this Key West restaurant when he got back home to Key West. I'm a regular and I've loved everything I've eaten there. I take home the homemade yogurt (it's not on the menu so you have to ask for it). They also sell large cans of imported Olive Oil for unbelievably reasonable prices. Dine In ~ Take Out ~ Delivery to your Key West rental.
Goldman's Deli:
2796 North Roosevelt Blvd. - (305)294-43354. (At the Overseas Market - You'll see this shopping center as you head out of town. It is across the street from Home Depot).
A fantastic authentic Bagel Deli owned and operated by the Goldman family. Open for breakfast and lunch, everything made from scratch and absolutely fresh bagels are made on premises daily "...boiled and baked, the old fashioned way." Deli sandwiches, grill featuring the reuben and grilled kosher frank, and smoked fish platters, slaws, potato salad, and fabulous special items including yummy potato latkes served with sour cream and applesauce, and potato knish! My favorite breakfast is the lox spread and scallion omelet, and for lunch I love the nova-scotia smoked salmon platter...or the tuna nicoise.
El Siboney:
900 Catherine St. (305)296-4184 - www.elsiboneyrestaurant.com
'Siboney' is a town in Cuba, and this delightful section of Key West was at one time a little "Cuban Town". There are still may Cuban families living in this authentic Key West neighborhood and you simply MUST GO HERE for authentic Cuban fare. Locals consider it the best Cuban restaurant on the island, and everything is good and protions are generous. Be sure to try their plantains and yuka. I love their fish preparations. Inside seating in renovated brick house in south side residential neighborhood. Be sure to take your appetite with you. Wonderful friendly family service! Best to make reservations. Take ~ Out also available - so pick some up and indulge yourself Cuban style at your Key West rental.
Seven fish
632 Olivia St. (305)296-2777 - www.7fish.com
A hometown bistro ~ Key West fish-style ,in an 'off-beat' residential neighborhood (just off Truman Ave.) Intimate setting that is sort of a Euro-Caribbean scene. Go for the fresh local fish and sashimi and if your heart is set on meat (or meatloaf) you can get that too. And be sure to try their extraordinary Banana Chicken. Local's favorite Key West restaurant. Intimate setting in Heart of authentic Old Town Key West historic residential neighborhood. Best to make a reservation.
El Meson De Pepe's:
410 Wall St.(305)295-2620 - www.elmesondepepe.com
Fabulous food, a full bar (try a mohito), and a live Salsa band right on Mallory Square in the heart of the action! For over 20 years Chef Pepe Diaz and his Cuban family "have been dedicated to great quality food and the preservation of Cuban-Conch Heritage in Key West." This is the place for a real Cuban cultural experience where you can enjoy real Cuban Conch cooking with real Cuban Conch hospitality... with the added feature of amazing live and lively Latin Music and dancing. Inside and outside seating. Celebrate the Cuban way! A most unique Key West restaurant experience.
White St. Deli and Café and Small-Chef-At Large Catering:
1019 White St. (305)294-1943 - www.smallchefatlarge.com
Fantastic local deli with bistro style eating and a great outside garden dining area as well. Great place to drop in for a soup and salad, homemade bread, and fantastic yummy home made dessert. Eat- In or Take-out fare to enjoy it at home. (I like to take it home and eat it at the dining table and fanaticize that I prepared it). And, if you are looking to cater an event you will want to talk to their 'Small Chef at Large' who has become a Key West favorite caterer for Key West weddings, private parties, and corporate events. This talented chef offers catering menus for every taste including Caribbean, Mediterranean, Asian, and vegetarian.
Chico's Cantina:
5230 U.S. 1, Stock Island (Located at mile marker 4.5 just over the bridge from Key West) - (305) 296-4714 www.chicoscantina.com
Family owned and operated a Key West tradition since 1984 and a memorable place to enjoy a wide array of authentic Mexican food. An absolute favorite with local families (this is always a first choice when our whole family, from grand kids to grand parents, go out together for lunch or dinner). Menu features their locally famous fine fajitas and they pride themselves on offering Mexican specialties not to be found in other restaurants. I love the seafood tacos and portabella mushroom enchiladas. Their guacamole and salsa is unbelievably fresh and delicious ...and then there is the sangria! Atmosphere is fun. Service is outstanding! Friendly staff members greet guests as welcome friends. It's worth the 15 min. drive from Old Town. Winner of The People's Choice Awards for Best Mexican Restaurant in Key West 12 Years Running.
Upper Crust Pizza:
611 Duval St. (305)293-8727 & 2502 N. Roosevelt Blvd. (305)293-8890 - www.uppercrustkeywest.com
"Not Your Average Pizza," with gourmet ingredients like portabella mushrooms, sun-dried tomatoes, and buffalo mozzarella catering to a more 'cosmopolitan pizza palette'. A local's favorite is the Margherita Pizza (most call this a cheese pizza) and then there are the specialties such as the 'White Spinach,' 'The Roosevelt' and 'The Mallory." Choose your favorite exotic pizzas with thin crust. And oh... yes they do have traditional toppings plus salads too. Perfect choice if you want to order-in to your Key West rental.
A&B Lobster House and Alonzo's Lobster House:
700 Front St. (305)294-5880 - www.aandblobsterhouse.com
On the Historic Seaport Harbor Walk. Upstairs is fine dining at A&B Lobster House with House Specialties like a Surf & Turf of filet mignon and lobster tail and Black Angus Strip Steak served with a béarnaise sauce and classic favorites like Lobster Bisque. You'll also find the elegant swanky Berlin's Martini & Cigar Bar upstairs where you must at least sample a rare cigar and sip a little cognac. If you're looking for casual dining go downstairs to Alonzo's Lobster House and go for the Oysters Moscow, a seafood salad, and some chowder. Great place to view the luxury yachts docked in the harbor and watch the old Schooners come in to dock at sunset.
Turtle Kraals:
One Lands End Village. (305)294-2640 - www.turtlekraals.com
Right on the Key West Historic Seaport Harbor Walk. An established Key West tradition it was originally a turtle canning factory (when that was legal), then just 15 years ago there was still a rehab hospital for injured turtles (when that was still allowed) and you could have lunch while you checked out the recovering turtles. Those days are long gone but the food is still really good "southern-Style" breakfast, lunch, and dinner featuring real pit BBQ, and now there is a Turtle Museum. My how times have changed! There's a great bar upstairs with a wonderful panoramic view of authentic old Key West Historic Seaport and another full bar downstairs inside ... and they have espresso and cappuccino too.
The Café ~ A Mostly Vegetarian Place
509 Southard St. (305)296-5515
Delicious fresh vegetarian food and homemade breads including many Vegan choices served fresh daily. But believe me, you don't have to be vegetarian to love this food. Great grilled sandwich selections include Portobello, Mozzarella, Eggplant and Zucchini. I love their salads and their portions are so generous that I take ½ home for later. The family recipe for fruity sangria is loved by the regulars and if you're thinkin' fresh fish, she also serves a great seared yellow fin tuna with wasabi sauce. Thrilling!
Abbondanza:
1208 Simonton St.: (305)292-1199 (Just off Upper Duval)
As the Italian name so aptly suggests...Good savory traditional Italian food served in very generous portions. Another local's favorite that is great for the family or a group of friends! Our family usually orders pasta dishes when we go there and everyone enjoys from the little kids to grandpa. And don't forget those garlic rolls. The little kids like to exclaim the name ‘Abbondanza'! Prices are extremely reasonable for what you get. Atmosphere and décor is soft and has a worldly feel.
Hog's Breath Saloon:
400 Front St. (305)296-4222 - www.hogsbreath.com
World famous saloon and eatery, popular with locals and tourists. Outstanding live music entertainment, great drinks, and delicious raw bar with local seafood and grill. Live music daily from 12:00pm -2:00 am. Fun clothing outlet for Hogs Breath T-Shits and Hats - remember "Hogs Breath is Better than No Breath at All."
Hurricane Joe's Bar and Seafood Grill:
5130 Overseas Highway (right outside of Key West on US 1 heading to Miami).(305)294-0200 - www.hurricaneholekeywest.com
"The Real Thing" - On the docks ocean side. Be sure to go here for original Florida Keys ambience and real fresh fish, shrimp, and lobster, all locally caught! Eat dock side or upstairs in the restaurant. Hang out on the docks and chat with the local fishermen and watch the "catch' as it comes off the boats and heads to the kitchen. No frozen or imported products are ever served at Hurricane Joe's. Popular with locals and tourists of all ages and attitudes. We like to go there with the whole family from grandkids up.
Square Grouper Bar & Grill:
MM 22 ("Up The Keys"). (305) 745-8880
A favorite trip for locals "to get off the rock." For a change in perspective of the Keys scene, plan to take a 20 to 30 minute drive up the Keys, or catch it for lunch shen you drive down. Favorite local's spot for Florida Keys cuisine. Local fresh seafood, steak, poultry, and pasta with a menu that changes as the cooks are inspired to try new dishes. Cocktail lounge, sometimes there is music on the weekends. Eat there then sneak up to Bahia Honda Beach at Mile Marker 30.
Mangrove Mama's Restaurant:
MM 30 ("Up The Keys"). (305) 745-3030
A favorite trip for locals "to get off the rock." For a change in view of the Keys scene, plan to take a 30 minute drive up the Keys. Florida Keys cuisine. Seafood, steak, poultry, pasta. Cocktail lounge, sometimes there is music on the weekends. Eat there then sneak up to Bahia Honda Beach at Mile Marker 30.
THE BEST LOCAL COFFEE
"Once you've had real Cuban coffee, no other coffee will ever taste quite the same!"
"I must admit that whenever I travel I take along a stash of Bustello or Pilon.”
Nothing is quite the same!"
Sandy's Café & M&M Laundry:
1026 White St. (305) 295-0159 - (White Street Gallery neighborhood)
Wonderful walk-up/ take-out made to order outstanding Cuban café. Sleepy locals meet to wake up early in the morning. Get a bouchi (Cuban espresso - they call it "Cuban Speed.") I'm addicted to the Cortadito, a pre-sugared cafécito topped with just a teeny bit of steamed milk. It's really strong so if you are not used to the "punch" you may want to try a café con leche first. Get the buttered Cuban toast or cheese toast and dunk it in the coffee for a great start on the day. For lunch try the locally famous mouth watering Cuban Mix sandwich or a scrambled egg with melted cheese and fresh tomato. They also have unbelievably delicious chicken tacos! Connected to M&M Laundry so you can wash and sip. Now open 24 hours.
Five Brothers Grocery:
930 Southard St.(305)296-5205 - http://5brothersgrocery.tripod.com
(Heart of Old Town neighborhood) Serving Key West for over 26 years! All styles of authentic Cuban made-to-order Cuban coffee at it's very best! Wonderful walk-up/take-out counter with awesome Cuban breakfast and lunch treats inside a great little tiny family owned Cuban Grocery Store, so you can shop while your café is made. Neighbors stumble in for their wake up brew. Try bouchi, cortadito, café con leche, Cuban sandwiches.
Coffee and Tea House:
1211 Duval St.- (305)295-0788
Finely brewed made-to-order Americana coffee and tea. A delightful variety of scrumptious home made sweet treats. Set in a Key West "Victorian house - cum coffee house" you feel welcome and cozy. Lounge inside or sit on the porch. A favorite place for coffee where local's, and sometimes their canine friends, begin the day by catching up on the local buzz.
Sippin:
424 Eaton St. - (Down Town Old Town) (305)293-0555 - www.sippinkeywest.com
Coffee and Internet Café. Great freshly brewed Americana coffee made to order and sweet treats. Several computers with internet access. Nice comfortable large roomy space for catching up on email, computer work, reading, and quiet chat. Close to the main downtown Post Office.
HOMEMADE ICE CREAM
Flamingo Crossing Ice Cream Store:
1105 Duval St. (corner of Duval and Virginia Streets.) (305)296-6124 - Outrageously delicious homemade creamy ice cream and clear sorbets made on premises. There are so many flavors to choose from you just must look for yourself. My favorites are mango sorbet, Cuban coffee, and Mangrove Honey-Walnut, and of course . . . chocolate. Set in an old Key West "conch house" the ambience is authentic as the treats. This is a Key West ritual for locals and should definitely become part of your Key West routine while you are here. This is right next door to the Key West Grand Vin wine bar, and I guess I must admit a favorite decadent indulgence is to go for wine . . . and then a little later have some ice cream. Yowsa!
FRESH FISH FROM THE WILD
FISHBUSTERZ:
6840 Front St., Stock Island, Key West (305)296-6022 www.fishbusterz.com If you want the freshest wild fish you can find, the you need to go right to the fish house and buy it. Fish is caught daily and brought to the docks by professional commercial fisherman of the Florida Keys. This authentic fish house specializes in spiny lobster, shrimp, stone crab, grouper, snapper, swordfish, and more and more. And while you're there sample some succulent fish and chips, Key West pink shrimp, or other treats they're serving that day in the “Shrimp Shack”. This is an authentic ‘old fashioned' Florida Keys fish house. Worth the 15 minute drive from Old Town Key West.
LOCAL GROCERS
FAUSTOS FINE FOOD PALACE (TWO LOCATIONS)
522 Fleming St. (north side of the island) (305) 296-5663 and 1102 White St.(south side of the island) (305) 294-5221. www.faustos.com Locally owned and operated for generations the Weekly family. These wonderful markets have almost everything, including great produce, fine wines, butcher shop, sushi, and made-to-order deli. The store on Fleming delivers groceries and will fax you a shopping list!
WATERFRONT MARKET:
201 William St. (305) 296-0778. Find it at the foot of William St. right on the Key West Historic Seaport Harbor Walk. Your green grocer! A guarded local's favorite this market is a strong-hold of the "old" 1970's day's Key West life style. Wonderful ambience. This store has organic veggies and fruits, outstanding fresh seafood, and unique selection of items that are hard to find anywhere else on the island. Fresh squeezed juice bar, and deli with made to order items.
Five Brothers Grocery:
930 Southard St.(305)296-5205 - http://5brothersgrocery.tripod.com
Little traditional Cuban market that's been in Key West for 26 years on the corners of Southard and Grinnell Streets that is an historic landmark with great Cuban coffee and great walk-up counter inside the store for Cuban food made to order in the little kitchen in the back. Other great food stuffs - fixings for Cuban food, plus you can pick up bread and milk and Cuban coffee to make at home.
MUSIC, ENTERTAINMENT, THEATRE, AND PERFORMING ARTS
Key West loves to entertain and for such a tiny island is full of performing artists, song writers, and musicians, and has a remarkable variety of nightlife and clubs that attract talented performers from all over the world. This list is a representation of some of our personal favorite places for entertainment, and is not meant to exclude other excellent entertainment opportunities. Be sure to pick up the local "Paradise" news in the Key West Citizen newspaper every Wednesday for scheduled music around the island each week. This will give you the music and other entertainment that will be coming for the upcoming weekend and week ahead.
NIGHTLIFE CLUBS:
The Green Parrot Bar: 601 Whitehead St. - (305) 294-6133 www.greenparrot.com
Established in 1890 this Landmark saloon is the oldest drinking establishment in Key West and maintains all the sinful charm and of its original open-air flare where they boldly boast "No Cover, No Minimum, No Wonder". Most hail The Green Parrot as the best music venue we have on the island. On stage you find not only the best bands in town but national touring acts. On the corner of Southard and Whitehead Streets. Fantastic place to dance your heart out. It rocks!!
Sloppy Joe’s Bar: 201 Duval St. - (305) 294-5300 www.sloppyjoes.com
(at the corner of Duval and Green Streets.) A Key West Tradition since 1933! Sloppy Joe’s is known all over the world as ‘the best party in town’ where folks gather for fun, food, and some of the best entertainment in Key West. At 9:00 am every morning, Sloppy’s eases into the day for breakfast and beverages. By noon the live entertainment starts to warm up and when night time comes the heat turns up dancing and music and then the bar really rocks! Sloppy Joe’s is also world reknowned for one-of-a-kind events like the annual Hemmingway Look Alike Contest that happens every July, and the Dropping of the Giant Conch Shell on New Years Eve. And be sure to stop into the Sloppy Joe’s retail shop for souvenirs and clothing.
Virgilio's: 524 Duval St. (305)296-8118 www.virgilioskeywest.com (located just off Duval Street, 1/2 block from Southard St. on Appelrouth Lane). Fabulous island charm with 2 intimate bars - one indoors and one outdoors where you can go see-and-be seen. Favorite local rock and Caribbean bands play fantastic dance music inside and outside you can sip and watch the scene. Some nights there are local D-Jays. Famous for the espresso and chocolate martinis.
Hogs Breath Saloon: 400 Front St. (305)296-4222 www.hogsbreath.com
World famous popular locals bar and restaurant where they say "Hog's Breath is better than no breath at all!" Located at the corner of Front and Duval Streets. Regular and touring music groups perform in the outside garden dance bar and fans look forward to established events like Key West Song Writers Festival and special performances held upstairs is an intimate studio room for special performances.
Schooner Wharf: 202 William St. (305)292-3302 www.schoonerwharf.com (at the foot of William St.) Right on the Key West Historic Harbor Walk. Authentic famous seafarer's Key West open-air waterfront Bar that some call "The Last Little Piece of Old Key West". Originally created on the private old schooner "Diamante" owned by Evalena and Paul Worthington in the ‘70’s, the bar was moved ashore dockside when the Historic Seaport was still a working waterfront. Open-air, fun, funky, live music daily, specialty drinks, and a great bar menu from omelets to chowder, to fantastic Raw Bar and more. "Sailors headquarters" and voted "Best Local Bar" for 6 years.
La te da: 1125 Duval St. (305) 296-6706 - www.lateda.com
A Key West and long time favorite for over 30 years, La te da is recognized internationally by discriminating travelers as a preferred destination. Beautifully housed in a landmark building La te da is a sort of ‘multi-dimensional' resort offering a first-class restaurant with elegant dining, 3 different bars that include the “By George” piano bar in inside in the front, the “Terrace Bar” on the porch overlooking Duval St., and the “Crystal Bar” upstairs in the in the dramatic state-of-the-art show space . . . the “Crystal Room Cabaret”. If you've never been to the “Crystal Room Cabaret” you must go to experience some of the best Cabaret you will see anywhere. Our best-of-the-best Key West performers include the famous entertainers Randy Roberts, Bobby Nesbitt, and Bruce Moore.
Aqua Night Club: 711 Duval St. (305)294-0555. www.aquakeywest.com
Put this on your list for a night on the town. Fabulously fun club and fantastically and entertaining and creative drag shows mixed in with lively dancing and karaoke. Daily happy hours. Everyone is welcome!
801 Bourban Bar: 801 Duval St. (305)294-4737. www.801bourbon.com Famous bar downstairs right on Duval. Loyal locals and tourist fans love this bar. Unique Key West after-hours club upstairs with sassy talented drag show performers known for getting the crowd going. Happy Hour Specials. Come one... come all to one of Key West's most unique establishments.
FILM:
Tropic Cinema: 416 Eaton St. (305)296-9493 www.keywestfilm.org
Here, film is celebrated as art, and the film line up is fabulous in this local's non-profit movie theater created by the community of Key West with the goal to celebrate film and identify Key West as a haven for artistic film. The theater itself is up-beat and beautiful with a deco style lobby and wonderful lounge where you can buy wine, beer, espresso, and yummy home made treats. Most of the staff members are volunteers and everyone loves the art of film. Enjoy the two screening rooms and the main theater that seats 150.
Key West Art Bar: 901 Caroline St. (305)296-0424 www.kwartbar.com
Wednesday nights locally famous Michael Shields presents . . . ‘Essentials in Cinema' on the big screen on the Afterdeck at the Key West Art Bar. Tickets are $5 for the movie and you can get wine at the art bar's wine bar. Right across the street you can get dinner at Harpoon Harry's! The Key West Art Bar is on the Upper Caroline St.( in the Key West Historic Seaport district) which is evolving into a hip and creative new “island urban” Art & Design District for Key West. There is an Art Walk on the 1st Thursday of every month. Check it out!
LIVE THEATRE:
Waterfront Playhouse: 310 Wall St. (305)294-5015. www.waterfrontplayhouse.com (Located at Mallory Square - Near where the Sunset Celebration is held every night)
Florida's oldest continually running professional theatre group, where the "Key West Players" have been presenting the "magic of live theatre for 65 years." This theatre group prides itself on maintaining the highest professional standards and continually provides dynamic and challenging live theatre for Key West's diverse community and our tourists. The theatre has adopted Key West's official motto of 'One Human Family,' reflecting the belief of the Players that theatre has a special power to reflect and thereby illuminate the human experience by celebrating the common humanity that unites us. The Players are committed to encouraging local playwrights.
The Red Barn Theatre: 319 Duval St. (305) 296-9911. www.redbarntheatre.com Romantic intimate theatre. Over 25 years of live theatre in Key West, it consistently offers great live shows of all kinds. See drama, comedy, musicals, and cabaret featuring the most talented actors, dancers, theatres, and directors from Key West's own famous performing arts community. The theatre has comfortable seating, and a full bar.
Tennessee Williams Fine Arts Center: 5901 College Rd., Stock Island (305)296-1520 ext 1 www.tennesseewilliamstheatre.com (on the campus of Florida Keys Community College) Head North like you're leaving Key West and turn at the sign for the hospital. Tennessee Williams Theatre is Key West's state-of-the-art performing arts center for Key West that brings our island the best live, professional, nationally-touring shows and performers from New York and around the world. The theatre also features locally produced annual shows and touring road companies that bring to our island professional dance, opera, music, and New York Broadway style shows.
KEY WEST BEACHES plus:
Fort Zachary Taylor State Park:
Go all the way to the end of Southard Street through the gate at Truman Annex. My favorite Key West beach. You can picnic, swim, snorkel, and fish. There is a short nature trail and bicycling areas within the park, and a refreshment stand at the beach offers snacks, beverages, and sunscreen. Guided tours of the fort are available daily. You have to pay $5.00 to get in but it is worth it.
Smathers Beach:
Starts at about the 1900 block of Atlantic Blvd, and goes all the way along South Roosevelt Blvd. to the Key West Airport. This is Key West's largest strip of sandy beach and is on the south shore of the island. Plenty of curb side food, sundry and water sports vendors. A popular wedding location for couples who want a tropical Key West wedding.
Higgs Beach:
1000 Atlantic Blvd. (end of Reynolds St.) Local's favorite, long pier, volley ball net, water toys and beach chairs to rent, and 'Salute' restaurant'.
Rest Beach
Right next to the White Street Pier and next door to Higgs Beach. They all sort of blend together. Rest Beach has a nice little boardwalk that makes as a short meander through the sand and a couple of kiosks where you can sit and rest and there is a yoga deck where you can opt in for a yoga class on the beach.
Dog Beach:
700 Waddell St. Right next door to Louie's Back Yard, a precious little strip of beach where locals go to swim in the ocean with their dogs. Once of the most unique "beaches" you will find anywhere!
South Beach:
End of Duval Street on the south shore of Key West. 'Nice little stretch of white sandy beach' with nice shallow turquoise waters. Right on this little beach is 'South Beach Seafood and Raw Bar'.
Simonton Beach:
End of Simonton Street on the north shore of Key West on the harbor side of the island. Well... this is kind of a beach. It's really a tiny piece of "sandy beach" mostly used now to catch a water view when walking the harbor towards the downtown area. In the 'old days' when a/c was a luxury, it was an afternoon gathering place where hippies, fishermen, and colorful local characters would jump in for a swim and cool off and then go to Sunset Celebration. Those were our good ole days.
Bahia Honda State Park:
36850 Overseas Highway, Big Pine Key. (305)872-2353 www.floridastateparks.org/bahiahonda/ We include this beach because even though it is about 36 miles north of Key West on the U.S. 1 Overseas Highway on Big Pine Key it is a locals favorite day trip. About 35 minutes from Key West, this once remote island resembles a beach in the Bahamas in so many ways that you when you walk the beach and almost imagine you are in the Abaco Islands. You'll get to see a wide variety of wading and shore birds and unique island plant life. You can picnic on the beach, snorkel and fish from the shore and finish your day with a stunning sunset.
POPULAR POINTS OF INTEREST
Considering tiny Key West is only 2 miles by 4 miles and located 150 miles out to sea, our island has an amazing array of things to see and do. And lately it seems like every year there are more and more interesting places to go and events to see. Key West is very diverse for such a tiny place and we have so many creative and interesting characters that new things are always happening here. This list offers some suggestions and represents just some of our favorite places and it not meant to exclude any points of interest.
SUNSET CELEBRATION:
One Whitehead Street. (On the docks near Front St.) www.sunsetcelebration.org
Historic Mallory Square is the location of the Waterfront Playhouse & Key West's Sunset Celebration. Hundreds of people gather before sunset on the historic docks of Mallory Square each day. With the setting sun as a back drop, street performers including tight rope walkers, fire eaters, and animal trainers entertain the crowd. Local arts and crafts exhibitors and food carts. Consult a psychic to help determine your future. It goes on every night.
SOUTHERNMOST POINT OF UNITED STATES:
Southern end of Whitehead St. Conch Republic Landmark: A not miss photo op at the intersection of South and Whitehead Streets. A brightly painted giant buoy reads "90 Miles to Cuba - Southernmost Point Continental U.S.A."
GOLF COURSE:
Key West Golf Club: 6450 College Road (305)294-5232 (take the turn to the hospital on Stock Island) www.keywestgolf.com
A Rees Jones Designed public championship golf course. Newly renovated greens. Call for Tee Times. Full service restaurant and bar. Lessons by PGA Pros.
KEY WEST ART AND HISTORICAL SOCIETY:
Key West Art and Historical Society: Main office - 281 Front St. (305)295-6616. www.kwahs.com Three historic museums - 1) THE CUSTOM HOUSE: 281 Front Street - The Custom House is the "Jewel of Key West". An incredible work of architecture, it was built in 1891 and served as a post office, court house and government center when maritime wrecking made Key West the richest city, per capita, in the U.S.A. Today it stands proudly as a museum and the home of the Key West Art and Historical Society.; 2) KEY WEST LIGHHOUSE AND LIGHTKEEPER'S MUSEUM: 938 Whitehead St. - Visit the old quarters and climb the lighthouse tower; 3) EAST MARTELLO MUSEUM: 3501 South Roosevelt Blvd - across from Smathers Beach - Civil War Fort A Civil War and watch tower that never saw battle, considered a monument to Civil War engineering. These are all fun for the entire family.
ERNEST HEMINGWAY HOME AND MUSEUM:
907 Whitehead St.: www.hemingwayhome.com - This was the home of Ernest Hemingway who lived and wrote in Key West for more than a decade. A true fishing sportsman, he loved the water off the Florida Keys and traveled and lived for many years of his life between Key West and Cuba (only 90 miles away). Take this educational tour of his Key West home and learn more about the most prolific period of his Nobel Prize writing career.
NANCY FORRESTER'S SECRET GARDEN:
One Free School Lane. (305)294-0015 www.nfsgarden.com (End of the Lane off the 500 Block of Simonton St. between Southard and Fleming Streets) A full acre of tropical rain forest garden right in the Heart of Old Town. Since 1972 Nancy Forrester has worked to acquire world class selection of plants including rare endangered plans as well as some that are extinct in their original habitat. The emphasis of the garden is on exotic tropicals that include a huge selection of palms, orchids, bromeliads, aroids, ferns, and bog plants. In the center of the garden are a group of adopted parrots who have permanent refuge in the garden and create an especially exotic feel to the scene. The garden also houses the "Mana Project," a unique environmental artist's project.
THE KEY WEST BUTTERFLY AND NATURE CONSERVATORY:
1316 Duval St. (305)296-2988 www.keywestbutterfly.com Rare Experiential Event! This is one of the most unique and memorable attractions I have ever experienced. Housed in a large climate controlled glass arboretum with beautiful tropical foliage and flowers and inspiring background music, you feel like you are in a fairy-tale or living a magical dream. Stroll though the winding path that meanders around the giant indoor garden taking you over a trickling stream and through a gazebo where you can rest and take it all in. A unique opportunity to experience a close up view of living butterflies while they sip on flower nectar, gently fly around, and even land on you. The entire butterfly experience is accompanied by colorful little chirping finches and tropical turtles slowly walking by. There is also an educational room to learn about butterflies and a gift shop. A must see in Key West.
KEY WEST TROPICAL FOREST & BOTANICAL GARDEN:
5210 College Road: (305)296-1504 www.keywestbotanicalgarden.org
(take the turn to the hospital and golf course on Stock Island) The only "frost-free" botanical garden in the continental United States. Our most treasured "large" green space with great board walk trails in a unique tropical forest that holds two of the last remaining fresh water ponds in the Keys. This garden is a major migratory stopping point for tropical birds from places as far as South America. Bring the entire family.
HAITIAN ART GALLERY:
600 Frances St. (corner of Southard St.) (305)296-8932 www.haitian-art-co.com Very Unique. This long established gallery store supports an incredible list of Haitian artists and is known for having the best collection of original Haitian Art in the country. The gallery is located in the heart of Old Town Key West residential neighborhood in an old classic wooden building that serves as the perfect back drop for this inspiring and thought provoking art.
KEY WEST FESTIVALS:
Key West LOVES TO CELEBRATE and the island famous... for many fabulous and unique world-famous festivals and special events throughout the year. Some of the most popular events and internationally famous festivals that draw people back to Key West year after year include: INTERNATIONAL YACHT RACE WEEK (in January) FANTASY FEST (in October) KEY WEST SONG WRITERS FESTIVAL (in April / May), CONCH REPUBLIC INDEPENDENCE CELEBRATION (in April), PRIDE FEST WEEK (in June), HEMMINGWAY DAYS (in July), WOMAN FEST, (in September), FANTASY FEST (in October), PARROT HEADS IN PARADISE (in November), SUPER POWER BOAT RACES (in November), NEW YEARS EVE FAMOUS DROPPING OF THE CONCH SHELL (New Years Eve).
SAILING / FISHING/ DIVING/ MOTOR BOATING:
BIG KAHUNA CHARTERS:
Back Country Flats Fishing. Home Base is in Cudjoe Gardens, U.S. Highway 1, mile marker 21 - but Captain Chris Robinson comes to you. (305)304-5498. www.bigkahunacharters.net Captain Chris Robinson is a world-class flats fisherman guide who has been fishing the Florida Keys for over 30 years! Captain Chris takes you into the ‘back country' in the Gulf of Mexico and offers absolutely the best flats fishing experience you could dream of. Regardless of your skill level, from beginner to experienced angler Captain Chris promises and delivers a premier fishing experience you will never forget!
LOONEY TUNES CHARTERS:
Deep Sea Fishing. Hurricane Hole Marina For reservations call (866)293-9550. 5130 U.S. Highway 1 just outside of Key West. www.h2okeywest.com/capt_derek_looney_toons.htm Captain Derek brings in the fish! Go for Tarpon, Dolphin (Mahi Mahi), Tuna, Yellow Tail, Permit.
SUNSET WATERSPORTS:
(305)296-2554.Long time established full service water sports reservation service in Key West. www.sunsetwatersportskeywest.com Full array of services including for Key West sailing, Key West snorkel trips, Key West parasailing, Key West sunset cruises, Key West wedding charters, and more.
OTHER THINGS YOU'LL PROBABLY LOOK FOR
BEAUTY:
ISLE STYLE ~ A SALON AND BOUTIQUE: 1204 Simonton St. A one-of-a-kind island style salon offers a full range of beauty and cosmetic services for people all ages and walks of life...plus... a small boutique of hand selected must-have island clothing and accessories. Staged in a charming comfortable Key West "conch house" that has been renovated into a salon + clothing boutique, owner Oakley Waits has created a truly special setting, fusing her own artistic style of progressive with heavenly-vintage. From the minute you walk in the door, you are made to feel like a friend and invited to lounge on the stylish vintage sofas for a read or sit in the back yard garden to sip a cup of coffee while you wait for your beauty treatments to set. My favorite thing is to pick out some sassy cotton Tees and 'pure and simple skirts' while the hair color blends away my gray. This is the perfect choice whether you are looking to just pamper yourself, or schedule complete beauty services for a wedding, anniversary, or other special occasion.
Blown Away Hair Studio: 601 Duval St. Suite 5. (305)296-0550. Full service hair salon for men, women, and children. Excellent hair cuts. Excellent colorists. A group of stylists who have been in Key West for many years have recently joined together to create this salon that opened November 2008. Stylists are in demand and appointments usually required, but walk-ins are welcome.
TRANSPORTATION
BIKE RENTALS:
GO GREEN! You can get everywhere you need to on a bicycle. Two options within one block of each other are: The Moped Hospital (rent bicycle and Mopeds), 601 Truman Ave., 296-3344. Bicycle Center, 523 Truman Ave., 294-4556.
CAB:
Friendly Cab Company: (305)295-5555 "The friendly cab company." Locally owned and operated 24 hours a day. Don't drink and drive in Key West! There is zero tolerance for DUI and the Key West Police will take you to jail! Please ... Call a cab!
CATERING:
SMALL CHEF AT LARGE: 2200 North Roosevelt Blvd. (in the back of the VFW Building) (305)294-1493 www.smallchefatlarge.com One of Key West's very favorite catering companies features well regarded chefs Jennifer and Alice who have been cooking on this island for a long time. In their new location they are cooking up a storm offering creatively beautiful and delicious food. If you are looking to cater a wedding reception, private party, fundraising event, or order in you favorite holiday meal for Thanksgiving or Christmas dinner, check out their palate stimulating menus. Only the freshest gourmet foods are used in their preparations.
CITY BUS:
The City of Key West Transit Bus Service provides public transportation on the island throughout the City of Key West and between Key West and the island city of Marathon. For bus schedules please visit their web site at:
www.keywestcity.com (305)809-3910
DANCE AND EXERCISE:
COFFEE MILL: 916 Pohalski Lane. (305)296-9982 www.coffeemilldance.com (Old Town - Just off Truman Ave. on little lane behind the Chevron Station at the corner of Truman and White Streets.) - Dance, exercise, and yoga classes taught by highly professional teachers. Unique Key West Studio owned by Penny Leto who holds a university degree in Dance Education. The Coffee Mill is a long established tradition and is housed in a most charming renovated old "conch coffee mill." Drop in classes available.
WE BE FIT: 1277 First St. (between N. Roosevelt Blvd. and Flagler Ave.)(305)296-3434 www.webefit.com A highly professional deluxe personal training fitness center owned by Daniel Reynen where he and four additional certified Personal Trainers work one-on-one with clients to develop customized fitness, exercise and diet programs This is a small customized facility with the best fitness equipment available. Appointments required.
STAY FIT STUDIO: 804 White St. (305)294-0693 www.stayfitstudiokeywest.com First-class personalized wellness and fitness studio known for fantastic spinning classes. Created by Leah Renier this studio stays focused providing a space where you can stay fit and have fun. They also offer Pilates and Yoga classes, one-on-one Personal Training, and massage therapy. Reasonable prices for locals and visitors.
PARADISE HEALTH AND FITNESS: 1706 N. Roosevelt Blvd. (305)294-4120 www.paradisehealthandfitness.com Small gym and fitness studio located in Key West shopping plaza where everyone is welcome to walk-in and work-out or take a class in the studio. Created by Alice Kolessar and Tom Wheaton this is a favorite local's gym offering Personal Trainers, an open gym facility, and in they also have salsa dancing classes. You may want to check this out. FUN!
HEALTH FOOD:
SUGAR APPLE: 917 Simonton St. (305)229-0043 www.sugarapplekeywest.com Locally owned and operated - Key West's oldest, most established, and best selection of homeopathic remedies, vitamins, organic produce, gourmet vegetarian deli, and juice bar. Nutritional advisor on staff. Yes, it is possible to live healthy in paradise.
HELP YOURSELF: "Food as it Should Be": 829 Fleming St. (305)296-7766 www.helpyourselffoods.com outstanding taste and nutrition. Outstanding ‘build your own meal' walk-up health food restaurant. Homemade organic breads, smoothies, fresh coffee. Food is always extremely fresh and delicious. The food is so healthy that I feel the food bliss right after I eat! On Saturday there is a ‘sidewalk market' where you can by fresh produce.
RAW FOOD CUISINE: Renowned and locally revered Rita Romano, Nutritional Consultant and author of "Dining in the Raw," offers some of the most delicious raw food cuisine you will ever taste. (305)294-6644 or send her email to dine_raw@bellsouth.net. Even if you are not a vegan, this food is a remarkable treat. Rita also prepares macrobiotic food and is available to teach private lessons where you can learn to use food as medicine. If you are a strict vegetarian and are concerned about finding food you can eat while you are here - you need not worry.
KEY WEST ALOE:
540 Green St.: (800)445-2563 www.keywestaloe.com Locally owned and operated by brilliant entrepreneur Frank Romano (originally from New York). Local legend has it that Frank came to Key West in the 1960's and got bad sunburn. A friend told him to put aloe on it and the results were so amazing that he started the very first factory in the U.S.A. to manufacture products made from aloe. Our 'hats off' to Frank - you can rely on his products to keep your skin safe and beautiful while you are in paradise!
MASSAGE / CHIPROPRACTIC / ACUPUNCTURE:
WHITE STREET HEALING ARTS: 1217 White St. www.wschiro.com Owned by Dr. Ross Williams, D.C., doctor of Chiropractic, this is self described as ‘A Holistic Professional Group Dedicated to Wellness." This healing arts center houses a specialized group of well respected and highly professional healers. Please stop by and pick up a card to make an appointment. Staff is friendly. Facility is beautiful and peaceful. Off-street parking in the back of the building.
RESORT EXPERIENCE AND DAY SPA:
Pier House Resort and Caribbean Spa: One Duval Street. (305)296-4600 Key West's first resort built by legendary local David Wolkowsky, has been through many changes over the years but it is still one of the most beautiful places to go for a view of Key West's harbor and enjoy food and drink. An ever changing piece of Key West history, we still enjoy going there for brunch or lunch, and watch the boats go in and out of the harbor and look at the tarpon in the water off the dock. Favorite FULL-SERVICE DAY-SPA.
PET NEEDS:
PAMPERED PET: 2508 North Roosevelt Ave. (305)296-6912 www.pamperedpetkeywest.com If you bring your doggie love muffin with you to Key West but he just can't stay at your house, call Pampered Pet for kennel lodging. If he does stay with you, go here for healthy "non-toxic" pet food and you can take him here for grooming too. They also offer dog/owner training.
CLOTHES AND GIFTS:
FOR THE HOME:
ROYAL FURNITURE: 3326 N. Roosevelt Blvd. (305)295-6400. This is fantastic furniture and decorating resource that is utilized by both individuals and commercial businesses throughout the Florida Keys. Professional interior designers lead by Christopher Elwell, are extremely knowledgeable and offer fast and friendly service to get your home looking beautiful at reasonable prices. Great service for out-of-town part time residents that need to furnish a vacation property and get the job done fast! The same group owns the ASHLEY FURNITURE STORE at 3216 Flagler Ave.
FAST BUCK AT HOME: 726 Caroline St. (305)294-1304. Exquisite home furnishings featuring unique one-of-a-kind finds made by owner Tony Falcone. Interior designer is on premises to assist you creating your dream-come-true Key West tropical home.
KEY ACCENTS: 804 Caroline St. (305)293-8555 www.keyaccents.net (On the Key West Historic Seaport) If you are crazy about home design like me you probably can't resist buying a Key West gift for your home. A beautiful shop housed in an old turn-of-the-century conch house offering a wide array of fine furnishings and decorative accessories. If you own a home in Key West be sure to ask about the customized home design and decorator services offered by owner / operator Patty O'Conner. Her expertise and professionalism in interior design make the whole experience absolutely carefree for you with simply marvelous results. Trust your slice of island paradise to a local pro!
WOMEN'S FINE CLOTHING:
BLUE: 718 Caroline St. (305)292-5172 www.blueislandstore.com A beautiful selection of fun-and-flirty island lifestyle clothing and accessories for the fashion conscious. Specializing in casual elegance you'll find exactly what you need from fashion tees to cocktail dresses to beautiful intimate apparel. Beautiful choices for women of all ages, you'll find the outfit you need at Blue. So don't worry if your home base wardrobe is void of tropical clothes - you'll find it here in Key West - no problem.
ISLE STYLE: 1204 Simonton St. (305)292-4000 www.keywesthair.com Refreshing, fun, and decidedly progressive island boutique in the front and upstairs ~ combined with beauty salon towards the back garden. An artist in her own right, owner Oakley Waits is continually re-designing and re-creating her unique personalized-experiential boutique, and always offers something new and exciting. Casual, elegant, sassy, flirty clothing- from beautiful intimate apparel to colorful island dresses to the most comfortable yoga ~ cum ~ daily ware, plus beautiful accessories and jewelry. My favorite thing is to pick out some sassy cotton Tees and 'pure and simple skirts' or yoga pants while the hair color blends away my gray.
MEN'S FINE CLOTHING:
ASSORTMENT: 514 Fleming St. (305)294-4066 Assortment is an established Key West tradition offering, a fine assortment of men's clothing for fashion conscious dressers, and unique gift items in an upscale sophisticated boutique setting. Claude Reams is a long-time retailer of men's fine clothing in Key West offering select casual ware, active ware, and swim ware for the discerning client. No time to pack for your Key West trip...no problem. You'll find it at Assortment!
SUPREME ISLAND DEPARTMENT STORES:
FAST BUCK FREDDIES: 129 Duval St. (305)294-2007) www.fastbuckfreddies.com Also now offering HALF BUCK FREDDIES located at 920 Caroline St. offering island discounts!!, and the new FAST BUCK AT HOME located at 726 Caroline St. with absolutely exquisite home furnishings featuring unique one-of-a-kind finds from Indonesia. Tony Falcone has been created an ever evolving truly unique premier tropical department store you absolutely have to experience! The most imaginative, creative, and witty window displays you will see anywhere! An amazing tropical emporium, for the design conscious shopper, this wonderful store offers everything from fine exuberant clothing, to beautiful gifts, unique house wares, tchotchkes, the finest candy, cards, great gifts for kids, etc., etc., etc.
LOCAL COLOR: 276 Margaret St. (305)292-3635 Established in 1986 by world cruising sailors who chose Key West to be their permanent home, they decided to meet the local demand for beautiful yet comfortable imported clothing such as Jams World, imported light weight sophisticated linen, sunglasses, hats, and artistic island jewelry including the famous KW Bracelet. This popular boutique is a long time favorite of locals and tourists alike. Seasoned success over the years expanded the store to several locations throughout the island. Check them all out at Local Color (Jewelry Stand): 425 Greene Street, and Commotion: 800 Caroline Street., and Lili's On Greene Street:424 Greene Street.
SPECIALTY STORES:
SHIRLEY CAN'T SURF: 624 Duval St. (305)292-1009. The coolest hippest surf shop - most authentic surf and skate board shop you've seen since the 60's in Southern California. All kinds of surf Tees, trunks, suits, towels, shoes, hats, gifts, stickers, plus boards - of course! Go and buy a St. Christopher and give it to your honey! For the past several years in a row I take my grandson there for his birthday for a new skate board and fashionable gear. Every year we pick out a vintage car model for our growing collection of ‘woodies' vintage VW Bugs, and other vintage models I can remember riding in. There is stuff in here for the young and ‘young at heart'.
BESAME MUCHO: 315 Petronia St. (305)294-1928 www.besamemucho.net A most unique and delightfully elegant apothecary, treasure, and souvenir store. You would expect to find a place like this in a picturesque village in the South of Spain. Located in Key West's Bahama Village, Besame Mucho offers an amazing collection of fine European toiletries and hand picked gifts that instantly feel like heirloom treasures. My daughter usually buys me something here for my birthday every year and I continue to treasure everything I've received. Once you fall in love with this store I promise you'll want to visit the on-line shopping option. Stop in for a real treat to your senses.
GALLERIES AND ART STUDIOS:
The Studios of Key West: 600 White St. (305)296-5200. www.tskw.org It is said that Key West has more artists and writers per capita than any other place in the United States. Recently, some of our leading creative people and community leaders joined together to create an amazing art center called "The Studios of Key West." Situated on the corner of Southard and White Streets, it is housed in the famous historic wood frame Armory building renowned for its two prominent corner towers. This amazing structure now houses 12 studios for working artists that offers lectures and creative workshops to the community. Art lovers should be sure to check out this unique facility.
ART GALLERIES:
Key West has an incredible diversity of art galleries featuring original works of local artists and special collections from around the world. Many of the galleries are scattered along Duval Street and White Street between Truman Ave. and United Streets, but there are several others smattered around the island. Try to visit as many of them as you can. This list is not meant to exclude anyone - some of our favorite haunts include:
Gingerbread Square Gallery: 1207 Duval St. (305)296-8900 www.gingerbreadsquaregallery.com
Hands On: 1206 Duval St.(305)296-7399 www.handsongallery.com
Island Arts Co-Op: 1128 Duval St. (305)292-99909
Guild Hall Gallery (co-op gallery and art studio): 614 Duval St. (305)296-6076 www.guildhallgallerykeywest.com
Haitian Art Company: 1100 Truman Avenue (305)296-8932 www.haitian-art-co.com Very Unique. This long established gallery store supports an incredible list of Haitian artists and is known for having the best collection of original Haitian Art in the country.
Gallery on Greene: 606 Greene St. (305)294-1669 www.galleryongreene.com
Harrison Gallery: 825 White St. (305)294-0609 www.harrison-gallery.com
Art @ 830 Gallery ~ Studio: 830 Caroline St. (305)295-9595 www.art830.com
Glass Reunions: 825 Duval St. (305)294-1720 www.glassreunions.com
Pelican Poop Shop and Casa Antigua: 314 Simonton St. (305)292-9955 www.pelicanpoopshoppe.com
JEWELRY:
Neptune Designs: 301 Duval St. (305)294-8131 www.orchidspecies.com/neptune2.htm Jay and Carmenza Pfahl have been creating both traditional and imaginative fine jewelry for Key West locals and tourists alike since 1977. Their creations include a variety of meticulously crafted styles and lines of 14 Karat gold and silver jewelry, and mounted reproduction Spanish treasure coins. Jay sets all types of diamonds, gemstones, and pearls, and specializes in custom made jewelry projects and loves to collaborate with his clients to create special fantasy pieces. In addition to jewelry making, Jay is a well respected long time serious Key West orchid collector and grower. His in-depth knowledge of and appreciation for the orchid has been the inspiration for some amazing artistically fashioned orchid jewelry. If you are thinking about a jewelry purchase, be sure to put Neptune Designs on your to-do list.
KEY WEST PHOTOGRAPHY:
Barry Fitzgerald Architectural & Advertising Photography:
2113 Seidenberg St. (305)295-7210 www.barryfitzgerald.com Barry Fitzgerald has been shooting professionally for over 20 years. He started his photography career in Richmond, VA and has been working in Key West and South Florida for over 15 years. Barry specializes in architectural, real estate, advertising, and fine art photography. He is also available for portraiture. Barry does not shoot wedding photography.
Photography by Tony Gregory:
830 Caroline St. (305)295-9595 www.tgregory.com If your plans call for a professional Key West Wedding or event photographer, Tony specializes in wedding, celebrity event and portrait photography. For several decades Tony has been photographing Key West and was selected photographer to record visits to Key West by Hillary and Bill Clinton. Tony is also the owner/operator of the artistic store ‘Art At 830' where photography studio is is upstairs.
WINE AND SPIRITS
BEST WINE SELECTION:
GRAND VIN: 1107 Duval St. (305)296-1020 (Upper Duval St. near the corner of Virginia St.) Best kept secret spot. Local's favorite! Incredible Wine Selection, go there to stock up! Right next door to "Flamingo Crossing" where you get the best ice cream so you can walk next door for a scoop of your favorite ice cream . . . and then go back for more wine. The owners (McConnell family) are world travelers and very knowledgeable purveyors offering an impressive selection of wines. Charming and island authentic intimate wine bar located in renovated Victorian house is great fun for wine tasting or drinking a bottle or two. Purveyors are frequently there and wonderful to meet and visit with. Romantic "Casa Blanca" atmosphere.
LIQUOR STORES:
OLD TOWN WINE AND SPIRITS: 1029 Truman Ave. (305)294-4123. A local's favorite - Good selection of liquor and wines. Adjacent to Teasers Strip Club - (Don't let this scare you - there are separate entrances!); CONCH REPUBLIC LIQUORS: 2308 North Roosevelt Ave., - Good selection of liquor and wines - New Town location.
KEY WEST MARINAS
HURRICANE HOLE MARINA:
5130 Overseas Hwy, Stock Island: (305)294-0200 - Just before you get to town - Full Service Marina and water sports destination just at the entrance of Key West, 15 minutes by car before you get to downtown. Dockage, boat storage, all water sports. Eat at Hurricane Joe's Restaurant while you are there - great food. Eat upstairs inside or downstairs on the dock. We take the little kids there on Sundays for brunch - they love to look at the fish.
GARRISON BIGHT MARINA:
711 Eisenhower Drive: (305)294-3093 www.garrisonbightmarina.net Contact this marina if you are bringing a boat to Key West and need a boat slip in Old Town Key West with a full service department. They also have dry dock storage, a fuel dock, bait and tackle, ice, a ships store, and boat rentals. If you want to rent a slip or rent a boat, it is best to call well in advance.
UNIQUE ISLAND MEMORIALS
Key West has three very unique and beautiful memorials that are worth visiting. Each Key West memorial commemorates and pays tribute to people who lived and died in Key West.
KEY WEST HISTORICAL GRAVE YARD:
Between Olivia and Angela Streets. Sexton (305)292-8177 www.cityofkeywest.com Well worth taking the time to visit, this land mark grave yard is historically informative, interesting, beautiful and fun to ride your bike or walk through. Look for the tall grave marker that says "I Told You I Was Sick", and be sure to visit the U.S.S. Maine Memorial site. Most grave sites are buried above the ground.
AFRICAN SLAVE CEMETERY:
1000 Atlantic Blvd. (end of Reynolds St.) Key West Higgs Beach burial site memorializing 295 Africans who perished on the shores of Key West after being rescued from the slave trade when U.S. Navy boats intercepted Cuban slavers enroot to Havana in 1860 and did their best to save the would be slaves. Cement pillars that are carved with symbols of West African proverbs mark the site where at least nine Africans who died are buried here.
KEY WEST AIDS MEMORIAL:
1000 Atlantic Blvd. (foot of White St. as you enter the White Street Pier) www.keywestaids.org Located on the White Street Pier this memorial is a City of Key West Park and tribute to the people who have died of AIDS and showed their love of the Florida Keys when living, working or visiting here. More than 1,100 names are inscribed on flat granite monuments which are embedded in the walkway approaching White Street Pier at the Atlantic Ocean.
CLINICS AND MEDICAL EMERGENCY
TRUMAN MEDICAL CENTER:
540 Truman Ave. (Old Town) 305-296-4399. www.trumed.org 7 Days Walk In. General Medical Care.
KEY WEST URGENT CARE:
1501 Government Road (see from Flagler Ave. In New Town): 305-295-7550 - No appointment necessary. General Medical Care.
HOSPITAL - LOWER KEYS MEDICAL CENTER:
5900 College Road, Stock Island. (305)294-5531 www.lkmc.com Head North like you're leaving Key West. This is our only emergency room in Key West. We have excellent and very dedicated ER doctors and surgeons on staff. You are in good hands. A helicopter is on stand-by for emergency airlifting to Miami in a worst case scenario.
Play safe! Have a great time in Key West!
Staff at Vacation Homes of Key West
|
