It’s back! Come October, “Taste the Keys” returns to the Upper Keys with value-priced prix fixe menus, free-wheeling Foodie Trolley Tours, and a Signature Dish Showdown where local chefs battle it out for “Top Dog” status.
Inspired by the popular Miami Spice Restaurant Months, Taste the Keys is a culinary journey where you can indulge in creative cuisine crafted by some of the Keys’ Top Chefs.
With exclusive, specially priced prix fixe lunch, dinner, and all-day menus, Taste the Keys is more than a celebration of food, fun, and discovery. It’s also a truly affordable way to indulge in some of the area’s finest food and to explore a range of inventive regional flavors. From fresh-caught seafood and island-inspired flavors to cutting-edge culinary creations, this limited-time Fall promotion features dishes from acclaimed chefs, family-owned restaurants, and waterfront gems, as well as from some terrific under-the-radar hide-aways.
For a real treat, hop aboard one of the Taste the Keys Trolley Foodie Tours. This lively night of “Bar & Bite” Hopping includes an elevated evening of curated tasting menus and drink pairings at each stop. The tours bring together great food, local hospitality, and a chance to experience multiple culinary destinations in one memorable night.
But what would “eating your way through paradise” be without a little friendly (actually fierce!) competition? Welcome to the Signature Dish Showdown, where participating restaurants nominate one standout menu item in a bid to win the coveted title of “Best Dish in the Upper Keys.” The tastiest part of all: YOU get to be the judge! Simply cast a vote for your favorite dish right online. Results are announced in early November.
Whether you’re hunting for the next award-winning dish, enjoying a progressive dinner aboard the trolley, or simply savoring a great meal with friends, October is the perfect time to enjoy a true taste of paradise!
TASTE THE KEYS
2026 RESTAURANTS
For more info, including special menus, Trolley Tour tickets, or to vote for your favorite dish, hit up TasteTheKeys.com.
BAYSIDE GRILLE & SUNSET BAR
99540 Overseas
Hwy (MM 99.5 Bayside)
(Behind DiGiorgio’s Cafe Largo)
Key Largo, Fl 33037
305-451-3380
baysidegrill.com; keylargorestaurants.com
M – Th 11:30 am – 9 pm; F & Sa 11:30 am – 10 pm Su 11 am – 9 pm;
Su Brunch 11 am – 2pm
Keyribbean Cuisine With A Creative Flair
A top dining and sunset celebration destination in the Upper Keys, this local favorite brings together the best of the Florida Keys and the Caribbean. Blending fresh, coastal flavors with bold island spices, Bayside Grille’s signature “Keyribbean” cuisine raises the bar for great, laid-back island dining. In addition to the stellar Certified Angus Beef® steaks, you’ll also find a big selection of fresh local seafood, as well as a variety of island-inspired pasta, burgers, tacos, and sandwiches. FYI: The Chicken & Ribs here are especially good! With terrific food, an epic Happy Hour, and sweeping waterfront views, backdropped by breathtaking sunsets, this family-owned and operated gem has been a Keys “Top Pick” for over thirty years.
BUTTONWOOD GRILL
45 Garden Cove Dr
Key Largo, Fl 33037
305-741-7105; buttonwoodgrill.info
Daily 11:30 am – 9 pm
Seafood, Steaks, Sandwiches & Ocean Views
This seafood-centric culinary gem is a tribute to the fresh flavors of the Florida Keys. Secreted away on the Manatee Canal with open ocean views, the menu shines with a litany of locally-inspired dishes. From the famous Lobster Arrabbiata over linguine, the Onion-Crusted Mahi, and the Whole Fried Fish with garlic butter, remoulade to the 16 oz hand-cut Ribeye and Surf & Turf, everything here is downright delicious. Great selection of lite bitesand sandwiches, too!
THE BUZZARDS ROOST
21 Garden Cove Dr, MM 106.5
Just Off U.S. 1 at Card Sound Rd.
Key Largo, FL 33037
305-453-3746;
buzzardsroostkeylargo.com
M – Sa 11:30 am – 9 pm; Su 10:30 am – 9 pm
Terrific Waterfront Hideaway
Discover some of the best food around at this intimate Keys hideaway overlooking Garden Cove Marina. The fresh sautéed Lobster Reuben and Corny Blue Crab Cakes are truly Blue Ribbon worthy and you just can’t go wrong with any of the fresh seafood selections or Prime steaks. FYI: The Champagne Sunday Brunch is also outstanding.
THE CATCH RESTAURANT & BAR
02041 Overseas Hwy
Key Largo, FL 33037
305-204-4143; thecatchrestaurantkeylargo.com
Tu – Su 11:30 am – 9 pm; F & Sa 11:30 am – 10 pm
Key Largo’s Unassuming Local Favorite
If you’re looking for and authentic Florida Keys Experience, this neighborhood fave is the place to go. Fresh-caught seafood, tropical cocktails and a laid-back vibe are the hallmark here, all backdropped by stunning water views. The Lunch Menu includes a big selection of Sandwiches, Salads, Wraps and Tacos, as well as a tasty lineup of Fried Baskets (Chicken, Mahi, Clam Strips and Shrimp). For dinner, you can score fresh caught Seafood Plates and Platters, Steak and Chicken dishes, as well as some really excellent Pasta preparations. FYI: Be sure to check out the Daily Chalkboard Specials which may include Whole Fried Snapper, Grouper Tempura, Snapper Amaretto Almandine, Prime Rib Au Jus, a BBQ Trio and lots of other.
C & C WOOD FIRED EATS
9901 Overseas Hwy
Key Largo, Fl 33037
305-451-0995; candcwoodfiredeats.com
Daily 4 – 10 pm
Fire Away!
Home to Key Largo’s only wood-fired oven, this family-owned hot spot consistently hits the ball out of the park with a menu that delivers. In addition to being the “go-to” spot for wood-fired, Neapolitan style pizzas, you’ll also discover lots of other intriguing offerings: from Pork Chops and Cowboy Steaks to Smoked Turkey Burnt Ends. C&C also earns high-fives for it’s unique “House Eats – a revelry of delights that include Wagyu Carpaccio, Long-Stemmed Charred Artichokes, House-Made Meatballs Ricotta, Creamy Pesto Pasta, Short Rib Lasagna, and lots of other out-of-this word delights. And get this: all meatballs, marinara, sauces, pizza dough, mozzarella salad dressings, desserts and more are made right in-house, fresh everyday. Bring a big appetite – you’ll need it!
Coast to Coast Pizza Company
99625 Overseas Hwy
Key Largo, Fl 33037
305-204-4085; coasttocoastpizzacompany.com
Daily 11 am – 9 pm
Authentic, Handcrafted Pizzas
Whether you’re craving a classic Margherita, a bold Buffalo Chicken, or a unique specialty pie like the Hot Head or Taco Pizza, you’ll find it here at this woman and veteran-owned pizzeria. Nicole and Omar Maldonado’s credo is to only use top tier ingredients for their signature New York, Detroit and Sicilian-style pizzas. Locally-sourced ingredients are at the heart of it all. Homemade dough, scratch-made sauces and dressings; house-pickled jalapeños; and hand-shredded Grande mozzarella cheese set the stage for over 100 different pizza options. And as if that weren’t enough, there’s also a great selection of Appetizers, Salads, and Calzones! FYI: If at all possible, room for Nicole and Omar’s signature Key Lime Pie – it’s totally out of this world!
DIGIORGIO’S CAFÉ LARGO
99530 Overseas Hwy (MM 99.5 Bayside)
Key Largo, Fl 33037
305-451-4885
cafelargo.com; keylargorestaurants.com
M – Th 11:30 am – 9 pm; F & Sa 11:30 am – 10 pm Su 11 am – 9 pm
As Seen On The Food Network!
Regaled as the “Little Italy” of the Upper Keys,” this award-winning destination restaurant has been owned and operated for over thirty years. It’s also been featured on Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives by the Food Network’s Guy Fieri. And with good reason. Chef/Owner, Robert DiGiorgio brings centuries-old family Italian recipes to life with a menu that blends tradition and quality with his unmistakable passion. DiGiorgio’s menu showcases classic pastas and pizzas, Certified Angus Beef® steaks, and fresh local seafood — all crafted with care and authenticity. Signature dishes like the Truffled Lobster Mac & Cheese made with house-crafted cavatelli, Caribbean lobster, and a rich Fontina-Asiago-Parmesan sauce; as well as the Parmesan-Crusted Bone-In Veal Chop Florentine, rank among Fieri’s favorites. FYI: DO NOT miss the Weekday HappyHour from 4 – 6 pm where you can enjoy a variety of specials including the signature Grey Goose Martini & Meatball. On WOW Wednesday, the Café features “Beat the Clock with Veuve Clicquot Champagne and ½-priced bottles of wine. Fine Italian dining in the Keys just doesn’t get any better!
GUS’ GRILL
The Reefhouse Resort & Marina
103800 Overseas Hwy
Key Largo, Fl 33037
305-453-000; opalcollection.com
Open Daily 7 am – 10 pm
Open-Air Dining & Sweeping Water Views
This is the perfect spot to linger over plate after plate of tasty local seafood on the outdoor patio with the blue-green Gulf waters as your view. Lobster tail, Almond-crusted Snapper, and Pan-Roasted Shellfish top the menu, as well as lots of other ocean-inspired favorites.
ISLAMORADA SHRIMP SHACK
81901 Overseas Hwy
Islamorada, FL 33036
3405-664-8433; islamoradashrimpshack.com
Th — Tu 11:30 am — 9 pm
Featured on Diners & Drive-Ins
Rooted in Keys culinary tradition, this genuine neighborhood favorite is all about fresh seafood and honest cooking. It’s also a place that locals and critics always rave about. Mother and daughter team, Jill and Morgan, dish up a big menu of delicious homemade recipes that includes standouts like the Shrimp & Grits, Shrimp Fritters, Fried Seafood Baskets, Chicken Piccata and the Grilled Certified Ribeye Steak. FYI: You can also bring your own catch and this dynamic duo will cook it up for you.
ITALIAN FOOD COMPANY
98070 Overseas Hwy
Key Largo, Fl 33037
305-440-2700; italianfoodcompany.com
M — Th 4 — 9 pm; F 4 — 10 pm; Sa Noon — 10 pm; Su Noon – 9pm; Closed Tu
Authentic, Award-Winning Italian & Neapolitan Pizza
The authentic preparations may be simple and straight forward here, but boy, oh boy are they incredible! Original recipes, including the slow simmered sauces, Mama Maria’s hand-rolled meatballs, traditional meat lasagna, classic parmigiana, and hand-tossed Neapolitan pizza — all originate from their own kitchen. If you appreciate “real deal” Italian, you’ve found your nirvana.
ITALIAN FOOD COMPANY EXPRESS
92330 Overseas Hwy
Tavernier, Fl 33070
305-707-0164; italianfoodcompany.com
M — Sa 11 am — 9 pm; Closed Su
Authentic, Award-Winning Pizza & Sandwiches
With almost a dozen pie options to choose from, you’ll be hard-pressed to pick just one. In addition to the fabulous Roman-style pizza here, you can also enjoy a big selection of “swoon-worthy” sandwiches, and lots of grab-and-go delights. There’s also a full menu of other signature dishes that all originate from their own kitchen.
KEY LARGO CONCH HOUSE
100211 Overseas Hwy,
Key Largo, Fl 33037
305-453-4844; keylargoconchhouse.com
M — F 8 — 11 am; Sa & Su 8 am — Noon;
Dinner Nightly starting at 4 pm
Featured on The Travel Channel & Food Network This second generation, family-owned and operated seafood restaurant has been a Key Largo staple for over two decades. Boasting fresh seasonal ingredients sourced from local farmers and seafood markets, the casual eatery also has a really terrific Coffee Bar. Standouts include Cracked Conch Benedict, Lobster & Conch Ceviche and Key Lime Macadamia pancakes.
KEYS LATIN HOUSE
105970 Overseas Hwy
Key Largo, FL 33037
786-410-2233
M — Th 8 am — 3 pm; F & Sa 7 am — 6 pm; Su 7 am — 4 pm
Authentic, Home-Style Cuban-American Dishes
This cozy, no-frills restaurant serves up fresh, flavorful dishes and some of the best Cuban food in the Keys. Expect fresh-off-the grill, bold Latin flavors and big portions that include hearty main plates and Bowls/Wraps as well as two-fisted sandwiches and fresh salads.
KINDLER WOOD FIRED FARE
Three Waters Resort & Marina
84001 Overseas Hwy
Islamorada, FL 33036
305-664-5300; islamoradaresortcollection.com
W – Su 5 –10 pm
Wood-Fired Regional Specialties
It’s all about “WOW” moments at this heralded signature restaurant which is located at the oh-so-fabulous oceanfront Three Waters Resort & Marina in Islamorada. A massive open-hearth kitchen takes center stage where master chefs sear, grill, and char inventive regional dishes from land and sea. Indulge in Wood-Roasted Seafood Towers, Dry-Aged Meats, and a daily selection of Fresh Caught Fish. For the ultimate sea-to-table experience, bring your catch and Kindler’s Culinary Kings will create a custom dish just for you!
LIDO 73
90451 Old Hwy
Tavernier, FL 33070
786-982-0060; lido73.com
Daily 7:30 am – 9 pm
A Touch of Italy
You can pull your boat right up to the dock at this charming Italian-inspired waterfront hideaway that exudes a casual beach club vibe. Tucked along a serene basin off Tavernier Creek, Lido 73 serves up a terrific line-up of crafted Focaccia Sandwiches, Flatbreads, Burgers, and authentic Italian Pastas, as well as lots of inspired Seafood and Meat Dishes. FYI: Be sure to order Nonna’s Meatballs – simply delish!
MRS MACS KITCHEN
Mrs Macs Kitchen
99336 Overseas Hwy, Bayside
Key Largo, Fl 33037
305-451-3722; mrsmacskitchen.com
M – Sa 7 am – 9:30 pm
Terrific Key Lime Pie
Mrs. Mac’s has been serving up comfort food in the Keys since 1976. Antique license plates bedeck the walls as well as the hanging lamps which adds a fun touch to the eclectic tropical decor. The hearty house made soups, salads and seafood dishes keep the locals coming back, but it’s always the Key lime pie that people really rave about. They also have a second location at 99020 Overseas Hwy (on the median).
PILOT HOUSE
13 Seagate Blvd,
MM 99.5, Oceanside,
Key Largo, Fl 33037
305-451-3142; pilothousemarina.com
Open Daily for Lunch & Dinner
“Home of the Keys’ Only Glass Bottom Bar”
Watch tropical sea life swimming right under your feet and enjoy a big selection of Appetizers, Sandwiches and Fresh Artisan Salads. Big plates showcase exceptional local seafood dishes, hand-trimmed steaks and prime rib. FYI: Great Raw Bar, too!
REELCATCH
Amara Cay Resort
80001 Overseas Hwy,
Islamorada, Fl 33036
305-664-0073; amaracayresort.com
Breakfast M – F 8 – 10 am; Sa & Su 8 am – 11am Lunch & Dinner Daily 11am – 9pm
Casual, Fun Dining
Caribbean Lobster Tacos, Tuna Poke, Chicken Nachos, lots of great apps, and specialty Tiki & Craft cocktails headline a great casual menu built for a good time. If you’re in the mood for a delicious burger, look no further. These big, juicy, made to order handhelds, all built with a custom blend of ground beef on a toasted Brioche bun, are the “Reel” deal. There’s also a terrific Chopped Wedge Salad, authentic Cuban Sandwich and a grilled, blackened or beer battered Fish Monger Sandwich that’s simply delicious.
SOL BY THE SEA
Playa Largo Resort
97450 Overseas Hwy
Key Largo, FL 33037
305-853-1001; playalargoresort.com
Lunch Daily Noon – 5 pm;
Dinner Nightly 5 – 10 pm
Rustic, Romantic Beach Shack
“Rustic Beach Shacks” just don’t get any better than this. With its white-washed tables, pastel fabrics, and driftwood benches, the charming decor at this dockside restaurant embraces a dash of Bohemian culture. The menu here is compact but very diverse, focusing on American and Coastal dishes prepared with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Feast on Lobster & Shrimp Cakes, Tuna Poke, Seafood Mac-N-Cheese, Bayside Wings, Fresh Day Boat Catch, Caribbean Jerk Chicken, the 18oz Bone-In Ribeye or a Wasabi Tuna Burger. Add one of their tropical craft cocktails and you’ve found your perfect beach shack!
SNOOK’S BAYSIDE RESTAURANT
& GRAND TIKI
MM 99.9, Bayside
Key Largo, FL 33037
305-453-5004; snooks.com
Open for Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
M – Th 8 am – 9:30 pm; F – Su 8 am – 10 pm
One Of The Keys Top Picks!
Hidden away at the end of a private lane, just off US 1, this exotic tropical oasis with its flickering torches, beautiful orchids and SOBE-style lounges is oh-so-chic! A stunning bar, gorgeous, open-air dining area and lounging space offer unobstructed views of the Bay, giving you a ringside seat to one of the best sunset celebrations in the Keys. As seen on South Florida’s popular TV show, “Check Please,” the fresh, island-inspired seafood dishes and Prime steaks won high fives from the show’s panel of judges and are all made to order. Truly a great place to kick back with crafted tropical cocktail and grab yourself a piece of paradise. Breakfast, too!
Sundowners Restaurant
103900 Overseas Hwy
Key Largo, Fl 33037
305-451-4502; sundownerskeylargo.com
Daily 11am – 10 pm
“Locally Caught Fish & Spectacular Sunsets”
The only thing better than the fresh, locally caught fish here, is the unbelievable sunset. Great Raw Bar & Apps, Salads & Handhelds and lots of Signature Entrées. Especially noteworthy: the Wagyu Beef Filet, FullRack of Ribs, Baked Seafood Platter, Stuffed Hogfish, and Miso Salmon.
Vicky Bakery
97630 Overseas Hwy,
Key Largo, FL 33037
305-735-4052; vickybakery.com
M – Sa: 6 am – 6 pm; Su 6 am – 5 pm;
Que Sweet It Is!
A Miami favorite since 1972, this pastelito-style bakery is now serving up the same family recipes here in the Keys but with an island flair. The classic, handcrafted Cuban pastries are renowned for the flaky texture and generous fillings while the array of authentic Cuban Sandwiches never disappoint. Great Cafe con Leche, too!
Zaika Key Largo Indian Cuisine
105045 Overseas Hwy,
Key Largo, FL 33037
786-841-7813; zaikakeylargo.com
Open M, W, Th 11:30 am – 10 pm;
F – Su 11:30 am – 10:30 pm
An Authentic Taste of India
Owner, Ganesh Selvam’s delicious made-from-scratch sauces and recipes blend authentic North and South Indian flavors with a modern, coastal-inspired twist. The menu, here, is expansive and offers ,hand-crafted specialties like New Zealand Tandoori Lamb Chops, Chicken Tikka, and Malabar Seafood Curry, as well as lots of vegetarian plates. FYI: the Goan Jumbo Tandoori Shrimp (jumbo black tiger shrimp marinated with yogurt and house blend spices and then broiled in the traditional charcoal clay oven served with mint chutney) is especially swoon-worthy!
CLICK HERE FOR A GREAT MAC N’ CHEESE RECIPE
FROM DIGIORGIO’S AWARD-WINNING CAFÉ LARGO
