When it comes to seafood, most travelers know Key West is one of the best destinations around. Whether guests are simply looking to experience world-class dishes or are experienced connoisseurs, the restaurants in this bustling city are sure to be a hit. The island is full of amazing seafood establishments and this list is just a few of the greatest. Reservations are recommended, especially during peak season, to avoid a long wait time. Parking spaces fill up quickly; so, consider taking a taxi, renting a bike, or walking if possible.

 

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A&B Lobster House has been around since 1934, boasting waterfront views of the A&B marina filled with boats and yachts from all over the world. Sip on the Bacardi Limon Mojito, topped off with ginger ale and mint, while enjoying the scenic sunset, which can only be found in Key West. Check out the savory beef carpaccio or the boldly flavored oysters Rockefeller. Don’t miss out on the cheesy lobster risotto, freshly caught Alaskan king crab, or tender Wagyu ribeye steak. Finish the experience with a taste of heaven—a tangy yet sweet key lime pie or the popular chocolate molten cake—ensuring a delightful end to the culinary adventure.

Latitudes, located at the Opal Key Resort on Sunset Key, is a short ferry ride from Key West and is one of the most booked restaurants in the city for its magnificent oceanfront views. Latitudes has an exquisite selection of upscale seafood delicacies which captivates every guest’s taste buds. Indulge in the delectable pink shrimp carbonara, tender braised beef short rib, or impeccably pan-seared snapper. Enhance the one-of-a-kind experience by savoring one of its renowned signature cocktails, such as the guilty passion martini or the sunset bliss. Be sure not to miss the irresistible delights of beignets, the refreshing lemon basil panna cotta, and the heavenly salted caramel crème brûlée.

Half Shell Raw Bar was originally built as a shrimp warehouse back in the 1970s and has been serving fresh seafood to locals and visitors ever since. The establishment boasts high-quality oysters, clams, mussels, and shrimp.

Don’t miss its signature seafood towers: Edith’s Tower has six oysters and clams, half a pound of shrimp, and half a pound of crab claws, as well as the SS Minnow Boat, which contains double the amount alongside two lobster tails. Make sure to also check out the conch ceviche, seared scallops, and half-shell surf & turf. For a unique dessert, try the bread pudding topped with bourbon cream sauce. Enjoy discounted rates on all drinks and dishes during happy hour, which takes place every afternoon.

Alonzo’s Oyster Bar is an upscale restaurant, perfect for a night out on the town. The establishment has been known for providing the freshest locally caught seafood in Key West since 1947 and has a great view of the A&B marina. Happy hour takes place every afternoon, so guests can enjoy discounted drinks, beers, glasses of wine, and tapas-style dishes such as a bucket of clams, wings, pretzels, and onion rings.

The Stoned Crab is a casual waterfront spot that offers fresh seafood dishes, including conch fritters, coconut shrimp, oysters Rockefeller, and more. The residents of Key West boast their optimistic and energetic personalities, so when life hands the island lemons, they’re squeezed over locally caught oysters or sweet pink shrimp.

Instead of lemons, Key West faced Hurricane Irma, which was one of the most severe storms ever documented in the Atlantic. The disaster inspired the restaurant’s signature dish, stoned lobster, consisting of two large crab claws, a lobster tail, and a small mountain of shrimp covered in a buttery gravy sauce served on repurposed wooden boards from the storm.

The bar serves sustainable wines and spirits to prepare its famed cocktails, consisting of pirates punch, shark bite, keys collins, and the ale mary. Make sure to check out the colorful seafood paella or the heavenly oyster towers. The big chill seafood tower is the most notable choice, containing one fish dip, six oysters, mussels, shrimp, crab, and Key West lobster salad.

DJs Clam Shack is a casual restaurant located on historic Duval Street and featured on Food Network’s “Diners Drive-Ins & Dives.” With seven locations split between Florida and New York, this spot has been serving delicious seafood dishes since 2009 and is known for combining northern and southern fare while maintaining affordable prices. The small menu demonstrates how much dedication and love went into every dish prepared. Make sure to check out the overstuffed Maine lobster roll, garlic-steamed middle-neck clams, conch fritters, calamari, and mahi-mahi tacos.

Eaton Street Seafood Market and Restaurant has a wide selection of freshly caught fish, shellfish, and to-go items at the deli counter. The happy hour menu has discounted drinks such as craft beer, wine, and cocktails, as well as appetizers like conch ceviche or fried calamari. Don’t miss the delectable lobster roll, shrimp tacos, or catch-of-the-day sandwich on ciabatta toast. With its delicious food and beautiful views of the harbor, Eaton Street Seafood Market and Restaurant is sure to be a memorable experience. Ocean enthusiasts should check out the 9 must-dos for water lovers in Florida.

Conch Republic Seafood Company is a waterfront restaurant known for its exceptional locally sourced seafood. This spot features all things conch, such as soup, fritters, and ceviche. There is also an attached market to purchase raw or ready-to-eat dishes with a guest’s choice of seasonings and sauces. Don’t miss out on the local catch-of-the-day sandwich or the Caribbean-spiced mahi-mahi. Travelers with a sweet tooth should try the pineapple upside-down rum cake with caramel sauce and the fudgy seven-layer chocolate cake. There are great views of the harbor from the outdoor terrace, making it an ideal place for a romantic evening or family gathering.