Florida Keys Dining

Fresh seafood is one of the best things about being near the ocean. When your fish has been swimming past you just a few hours ago, the flavor is better than anything you’ll ever get inland. In the Florida Keys, we have a wealth of native fish to enjoy. Here’s a look at some of the delicious fish you can sample while you’re here.

WHAT FISH ARE NATIVE TO THE FLORIDA KEYS?

With the ocean all around, it’s no surprise that there’s plenty of seafood to indulge in. Florida is home to diverse wildlife, and the fish are no exception. Here are some of the fish that are native to the region.

Grouper

This category includes several varieties of grouper, including red, black, scamp, and gag. Grouper generally has firm flesh with large flakes and is delicately flavored.

Mahi Mahi

This tasty white fish is also known as Dorado or Dolphin fish (don’t worry, this isn’t the loveable ocean mammal). The flavor is mild and faintly sweet.

Wahoo

A lean, firm, flaky fish with excellent flavor.

Red Snapper

Kids often enjoy Snapper because it doesn’t have a “fishy” flavor. It has a delicate, almost nutty taste.

Hogfish

A beloved fish in Florida, hogfish isn’t well known elsewhere, but it’s simply delicious. The flavor is delicate and adaptable to many dishes. 

Triple Tail

It has a sweet, mild flavor and firm, flaky flesh. Some diners even prefer the taste of Triple Tail to the popular Grouper. 

WHAT FISH ARE THE TASTIEST?

Ultimately, the best seafood is the freshest, so it’s always a good idea to opt for a native fish (with one exception– we’ll get to that in a minute). 

You should choose the fish with the flavor profile you prefer. Do you like a mild, flaky fish? Stick with Mahi Mahi, Grouper, or Red Snapper. If you’re more adventurous, try Wahoo, Triple Tail, or Florida’s beloved Hogfish. 

One option that we recommend that isn’t native to Florida is Lionfish. It’s found in Florida waters, so you can still have it fresh from the sea. The flesh is flaky and somewhat firm, with a buttery flavor. Lionfish is an invasive species, so people are encouraged to dine on it as much as possible to help keep the population in check. It’s an opportunity to treat yourself to a delicious fish dinner and simultaneously help out beautiful Florida Keys. 

WHAT ARE SOME MEALS THAT ARE SPECIAL TO THE FLORIDA KEYS?

The unique blend of cultures in the Florida Keys has produced cuisines that make the most of local fish. You can tuck into Mahi Mahi tacos, a mouth-watering take on the popular street food. Grilled, blackened, or battered fillets are tucked in a tortilla, along with your favorite salsa and toppings. 

Restaurants often serve pan-seared fillets with a wealth of flavorful additions, from bright citrus notes to earthy mushrooms. Fish also makes a delicious addition to chowders and fritters. 

At Playa Largo Ocean Residences, we have four restaurants on the resort property to help you enjoy the Florida bounty of seafood. Try Sol by the Sea for classic seafood meals or Las Olas Ceviche Bar to indulge in ceviche, tapas, and sushi. La Marea marries local flavors with Mediterranean cuisine. Try Sand Bar, which specializes in drinks and tempting small bites, for a lighter nibble. 

COME VISIT THE FLORIDA KEYS TODAY!

Treat yourself to a getaway that will delight the senses! The Florida Keys offers so much to explore, including the bountiful seafood. At Playa Largo Ocean Residences, we provide a home-away-from-home experience so you can relax and play. Come see us soon!

Image Credit: Tatjana Baibakova / Shutterstock

When dining in the Florida Keys, the culinary offerings are as vibrant and diverse as the islands. The unique blend of cultures and the abundant marine life provide a rich array of flavors that will delight any food enthusiast. Let’s dive into what makes the cuisine here so special and explore the best restaurants in the Keys to experience these culinary delights.

What Food is the Florida Keys Known for? 

The Florida Keys are renowned for their fresh seafood, tropical fruits, and a mix of Caribbean, Cuban, and Southern influences. Here are some must-try dishes:

• Key Lime Pie: No trip to the Keys is complete without tasting the world-famous Key Lime Pie. This tangy and sweet dessert is made from the intense Key lime, sweetened condensed milk, and a graham cracker crust, often topped with meringue or whipped cream.
• Conch Fritters: These deep-fried balls of dough filled with conch meat are a popular appetizer. The conch is a local shellfish, and fritters are often served with a tangy dipping sauce.
• Stone Crab Claws: Available from October to May, stone crab claws are a delicacy. They are typically served chilled with mustard sauce, allowing the sweet, tender meat to shine.
• Fresh Fish Tacos: The Keys’ proximity to the ocean means abundant fresh fish. Fish tacos, often made with mahi-mahi or grouper, are a staple, usually topped with fresh salsa and a squeeze of lime.
• Cuban Sandwiches: Given the Keys’ proximity to Cuba, it’s no surprise that Cuban cuisine significantly influences the culinary scene. The Cuban sandwich, with roast pork, ham, Swiss cheese, pickles, and mustard on Cuban bread, is a must-try.

What Type of Cuisine is Mostly Served in the Key West? 

Key West, the southernmost point of the continental U.S., is a melting pot of flavors. The cuisine here reflects the island’s eclectic cultural heritage, offering a fusion of American, Caribbean, Cuban, and seafood-centric dishes. Key West restaurants often feature:

• Seafood: The star of many menus, with dishes like grilled lobster, conch chowder, and shrimp ceviche.
• Caribbean Cuisine: Jerk chicken, plantains, and tropical fruit salsas bring a taste of the islands.
• Cuban Cuisine: Dishes like ropa vieja (shredded beef) and picadillo (ground beef hash) are common.
• Southern Comfort Food: You’ll find Southern staples like fried chicken, grits, and cornbread, often with a local twist.

Where to Find Some of the Best Restaurants

Exploring the culinary scene in the Florida Keys is an adventure in itself. Here are some top spots to consider:

• Sol by the Sea: A rustic beach shack with Bohemian charm, offering dockside dining, stunning sunsets, and a menu of American and coastal favorites from mussels to steak.
• Las Olas: Dive into vibrant energy, fresh ceviche, and creative cocktails. Enjoy tapas, sushi, and authentic sake in a lively Key Largo setting.
• La Marea: A new wave of Mediterranean cuisine. Chef Karl Stoehr blends classic Italian flavors with fresh Key Largo ingredients for a taste of European seaside living.
• Sand Bar: Sip, savor, and soak in the sun. Enjoy refreshing drinks, light bites, and stunning ocean views at this chic Key Largo bar.

Come Visit the Florida Keys Today 

With its stunning scenery, rich cultural heritage, and flavorful cuisines, the Florida Keys are a paradise for food lovers. Whether you’re enjoying a casual beachside meal or a fine dining experience, the cuisine in the Keys is sure to leave a lasting impression. There’s no better way to start exploring the depths of the local cuisine than to indulge in the culinary delights of this tropical paradise. For more information on resort access and to start planning your unforgettable culinary adventure, visit Playa Largo Ocean Residences. With our upscale amenities, we’ll help you vacation in comfortable luxury. 

Image Credit: Lucky-photographer / Shutterstock