With over 300 restaurants in Key West, how do you chose where to have lunch? Look no further! Here, at That Particular Harbor, we have done the work for you and found some gems.
Depending on where you are on the island and what your day entails, the list below should have you covered. While we try to live like locals, Key West is full of touristy places. This is the list where we explore more touristy restaurants than our breakfast or dinner lists. And, as any athlete knows, you need to eat to keep up your stamina. A trip to Key West is is no different than an athletic endeavor. You will probably walk several miles each day, so EAT LUNCH!!
Get your appetite ready and check out our favorites:
- Best Food Truck: Garbo’s Grill
- Best Touristy Spot: Fogarty’s
- Best Grouper Sandwich: B.O.’s Fish Wagon
- Best Sit-Down Restaurant: Conch Republic Seafood Company
- Best Water View: Louie’s Backyard
Garbo’s Grill | 409 Caroline St
Favorite Dishes
- Korean BBQ tacos minus the cilantro (Shawn)
- Umami Burger (Ed)
Once upon a time, during one of our earliest Key West adventures, we embarked on a Triple D quest. If Guy Fieri loved these hidden gems, we knew we were in for a treat. Enter Garbo’s Grill. Holy Flavor Town! Between us, we’ve tasted just about everything on the menu, and it’s all absolutely delicious. Trust us, you won’t leave hungry. Over the years, Garbo’s has expanded with more seating (all outside), ambiance, and even live music, but you still head into Hank’s bar for drinks. It’s a win-win all around!
Pro Tip: Even though it’s a food truck, don’t expect a quick grab-and-go. Garbo’s Grill is usually bustling with hungry fans, and they cook everything to order. Patience is key, but trust us, the flavor-packed wait is totally worth it!
Fogarty’s | 227 Duval St
Favorite Dishes
- Fogarty’s Fish Sandwich with Cheese (Shawn)
- Blackened Fish Tacos with Rice and Beans (Ed)
If you’ve been to Key West, you’ve definitely strolled past Fogarty’s. You know the one—right on the corner with those refreshing misters and slushy machines calling your name. Located smack dab in the heart of Duval’s most touristy area, don’t let that fool you. The food here is glorified bar fare, but it’s absolutely scrumptious. If big portions are your jam, you’re in the right place! Plus, being in the heart of the action means the people-watching is on point.
Pro Tip: Don’t be a party pooper—go for the BIG slushy drink! They’re so smooth and refreshing that it’ll be gone before you know it. Plus, you get a cool souvenir cup and cheap refills, making it a win-win for your wallet and your thirst. We pack our insulated cups for every trip and keep on enjoying the savings!
B.O.’s Fish Wagon | 801 Caroline St
Favorite Dishes
- Fried Fish of the Day + Fries (Shawn)
- Grilled Grouper + Conch Fritters (Ed)
What can we say—we’re suckers for a fresh fish sammie! You can find them all over the island, but BO’s Fish Wagon is hands down the best. When you first walk up, you might question our judgment, but trust us, don’t be scared off. Step inside, order a fresh fish sandwich and a beer, find a seat, and dive into deliciousness!
Conch Republic Seafood Company | 631 Greene St
Favorite Dishes
- Island Salad with Fish of the Day added (Shawn)
- Lobster Bisque and Royal Red Peel & Eat Shrimp (Ed)
This is almost always our first stop when we hit the island. My husband can’t resist their shrimp or their soups (check out his go-to picks above). Tucked away on the wharf and a tad removed from the hustle and bustle of Duval Street, it’s a perfect escape. Plus, it checks off Ed’s need to be near the water. Even our friends insist on dining here when they join us in Key West. The seafood is always fresh because they have their own fishing boats!
Pro Tips: The Royal Red Shrimp are not listed on the menu. You have to ask for them! Also, this is a picturesque location for a group dinner. We hosted a couple of dinners here for our micro-wedding weekend and the service and attention to detail was perfect. Make sure to call ahead and let them know you are coming!
The Cafe at Louie’s Backyard | 700 Waddell Ave
Favorite Dishes
- Ricotta Gnocchi (Shawn)
- Steak Tacos (Ed)
Louie’s is a treat for us. We don’t spend a lot of time on this end of the island, but when we do, we make sure to plan our day around this lunch spot. Many times when I ask Ed where he wants to eat, he will just say “near the water”. Well folks, this is as good as it gets on the Atlantic side of Key West. Louie’s is pricier than the other restaurants on the list, but our stomachs always confirm it’s worth it.
Pro Tip: The house across the street usually has a sand sculpture in the front yard. A must-see on the island. And directly next to Louie’s is a dog-friendly beach.
With over 300 restaurants in Key West, we know you have choices. Don’t over think it. Ed and I hope you try out our recommendations and love them. If you find yourself in another restaurant that should be on the list, drop us a comment and let us know!
➡️ If this list tempts your taste buds, check out our Breakfast List for ways to get your day started!
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