11 Best Waterfront Restaurants in Key West, According to a Local Floridian

Key West is renowned for its vibrant culinary scene, where the fusion of fresh seafood and stunning ocean views create an unforgettable dining experience. As a local Floridian, I’ve explored every nook and cranny to bring you the best waterfront restaurants this idyllic island has to offer. Each spot on this list captures the essence of Key West, offering a unique blend of cuisine, ambiance, and breathtaking vistas.

From toes-in-the-sand eateries to sophisticated harborside dining, these selections promise both gastronomic delights and an authentic taste of island life. Ready to savor the best of Key West’s waterfront dining? Let’s explore!

1. One Duval

Perched on the edge of the marina, One Duval offers a dining experience marked by elegance and sophistication. The restaurant’s menu is a tribute to the sea, featuring elevated seafood dishes crafted with precision.

As you savor the flavors, the stunning marina views enhance the dining experience, making it truly memorable. Whether it’s breakfast, lunch, or dinner, each meal at One Duval is accompanied by the gentle sway of the tides.

This establishment is perfect for those seeking a refined atmosphere where the beauty of Key West’s waters is always within sight.

2. Half Shell Raw Bar

Half Shell Raw Bar is where authenticity meets freshness. Known for its no-frills attitude, this eatery serves ultra-fresh Florida seafood right beside the historic working seaport.

Here, the atmosphere is as laid-back as it gets, with oysters shucked to perfection and shrimp steamed to order. The rustic setting offers a glimpse into Key West’s maritime heritage.

If you’re a seafood lover, this is a must-visit spot where you can indulge in the ocean’s bounty while enjoying the bustling seaport backdrop.

3. Hogfish Bar & Grill

Tucked away on Stock Island, Hogfish Bar & Grill brings you closer to the sea with its location on authentic shrimp docks. This hidden gem is celebrated for serving diver-caught hogfish and local shrimp.

The atmosphere is vibrant and relaxed, attracting both locals and visitors. As you dine, the surrounding sights and sounds of working docks provide an authentic touch.

Perfect for those seeking a genuine taste of island life with seafood that’s as fresh as it gets, Hogfish Bar & Grill is a culinary treasure.

4. Latitudes

For an unforgettable romantic dining experience, Latitudes stands out with its private island setting. The restaurant offers sunset-facing beachfront tables, making it a prime spot for couples.

The menu features exquisite dishes, each crafted to perfection and enhanced by the stunning views. As the sun dips below the horizon, the ambiance turns magical.

This is a place where romance and fine dining converge, offering an escape from the ordinary and a chance to indulge in the extraordinary.

5. Salute! On the Beach

Salute! On the Beach offers a casual dining experience with toes-in-the-sand charm. The menu is a delightful fusion of Caribbean-inspired Italian dishes.

Set right on the beach, this spot is perfect for those looking to enjoy a laid-back meal with ocean views. The Key Lime Pie, sourced from its sister restaurant, is a must-try.

With its relaxed vibe and flavorful menu, Salute! captures the essence of beachside dining, making it a favorite among locals and tourists alike.

6. Southernmost Beach Cafe

Southernmost Beach Cafe offers classic Key West comfort food in a setting that’s hard to beat. Located right on the sand, the restaurant serves up tropical cocktails and delicious dishes.

The ocean views are truly captivating, providing the perfect backdrop for a leisurely meal. Whether you’re enjoying breakfast or a sunset dinner, the atmosphere is welcoming and relaxed.

This cafe is ideal for those seeking a taste of local flavors in a picturesque setting, ensuring a memorable Key West experience.

7. Four Flamingos: A Richard Blais Key West Kitchen

At Four Flamingos, culinary creativity meets dockside charm. Celebrity chef Richard Blais brings his flair to the menu, offering fresh local seafood with a twist.

The dockside deck provides a scenic setting for enjoying the playful cocktails and inventive dishes. Each creation reflects the vibrant essence of Key West.

For those looking to explore innovative flavors in a picturesque location, Four Flamingos offers a unique dining experience that delights the senses.

8. Louie’s Backyard

Set in a historic oceanfront home, Louie’s Backyard is a testament to the elegance of island cuisine. The restaurant features multi-level decks that overlook the vast Atlantic.

The menu showcases upscale dishes crafted with care, offering a culinary journey that is both sophisticated and flavorful. The ambiance is serene, perfect for a tranquil dining experience.

Louie’s Backyard is a haven for those seeking elegance and taste, where each meal is an artful expression of island life.

9. The Docks Stock Island

The Docks Stock Island combines chic ambiance with breathtaking marina sunsets. This restaurant is committed to sustainability, featuring locally sourced seafood.

With its relaxed yet refined atmosphere, it offers a modern take on waterfront dining. Each dish is carefully curated to highlight the fresh flavors of the sea.

Ideal for those seeking an eco-conscious dining experience with stunning views, The Docks is a perfect blend of style and substance.

10. Hot Tin Roof

Hot Tin Roof invites diners to experience its unique “conch fusion” menu, blending Caribbean and Floridian flavors. The romantic harbor-view setting enhances the dining experience.

The menu is a creative exploration of flavors, offering something for every palate. The ambiance is intimate, ideal for a special evening out.

This restaurant is perfect for those looking to indulge in innovative dishes while soaking in the charm of Key West’s harbor.

11. Bistro 245

Bistro 245 captures the tropical essence of Key West with its prime harbor views and all-day seafood offerings. The atmosphere is laid-back yet lively, perfect for any time of the day.

From breakfast through dinner, the menu is filled with fresh, flavorful options. The harbor serves as a picturesque backdrop, enhancing the dining experience.

For those seeking a true taste of the island’s vibrant culinary scene, Bistro 245 offers a delightful escape into tropical indulgence.