If you’re looking for an authentic Keys experience, head on over to Porky’s Bayside in Marathon. Originally known as Bill Thompson’s Villa & Marina, this historic “Island Style Tiki Diner” has been one of the Middle Keys’ favorite hangs since the 1950s. Back then, the rustic, open-air waterfront hot spot hosted all sorts of famous visitors, including Ernest Hemingway and Jimmy Hoffa, as well as legendary movie icons like Elizabeth Taylor.
Today, the legend continues. Overlooking Capt Pip’s Marina & Hideaway, this funky, pet-friendly hang is still renowned for its rough-hewn waterfront setting, terrific food, and great live entertainment that rocks the dock nightly from 6 – 9 pm.
Start your day here with one of Porky’s famous Breakfast Specialties. Served daily from 8 am – 11 am, standouts include the outrageously good hand-dipped Challah French Toast, stuffed with Key Lime Pie and topped with Pina Colada Maple Syrup; House-made Buttermilk Biscuits with Country-Style Sausage Gravy, Shrimp n’ Grits; authentic Huevos Rancheros, and a big Breakfast Egg Burrito that’s a full mouthful of deliciousness.
But that’s just the beginning. Porky’s Lunch and Dinner offerings are just as swoon-worthy. The menu boasts a big array of Monster House Burgers, Fresh Catch Sandwiches, Baja-Style Tacos, Bayside Baskets, and more.
If you love house-smoked BBQ, Porky’s signature plates, and lumberjack sandwiches are just the ticket. Dig into Fall-Off-the-Bone Baby Back Ribs, Pork Spareribs, BBQ North Carolina Pulled Pork, Mojo Marinade Cuban Pork, BBQ Pulled Chicken, or Beef Brisket. Can’t decide? Then load up on more napkins, throw caution to the wind, and order yourself the massive BBQ Sampler piled high with a yummy combo of all your favorites.
If fresh, creatively prepared seafood is more your gig, you can feast on a variety of Fresh Seafood Baskets, Fried Lobster Tacos, Florida Jumbo Shrimp, Key West Crab Cakes, Seafood Pasta and an array of local fresh fish prepared any which way. You can always count on a big selection of Daily Specials, too. Expect to find items like Prime Rib, Surf & Turf, fresh whole Florida Lobster, and some really excellent authentic Cuban dishes.
There’s also a special Sushi Menu with a curated selection of Classic and Specialty Rolls, Asian Seared Sashimi Tuna, Tuna Nachos, Hamachi Crudo and lots of other delectables. You can always count on a big selection of Daily Specials, too. Expect to find items like Prime Rib, Surf & Turf, Coconut Grouper, and fresh whole Florida Lobster, as well as some really excellent authentic Cuban dishes. Whatever you choose, make sure to save room for Porky’s original, award-winning Deep Fried Key Lime Pie — it’s a totally out-of-body experience!
Oh, and get this: Porky’s also has a really cool tropical-themed 18-hole miniature golf course — the only one like it in the Middle or Upper Keys! Porky’s Bayside is open daily from 8 am – 10 pm and has one of the Keys’ best Happy Hours every day from 3 – 6 pm. Find it all at 1410 Overseas Hwy, MM 47.5, Gulfside, Marathon; info: 305-289-2065; porkysbaysideBBQ.com.
