Talk about a Keys’ hideaway! If you weren’t looking for the Buzzard’s Roost in north Key Largo, you probably would never run across it. And that would be a darn shame because it’s one of the best casual waterfront restaurants in the Keys. Situated dockside at the Garden Cove Marina, this cozy spot may be off the beaten track but the food is all that and a bag of chips.

You’ll find loads of fresh fish dishes and local seafood here, as well as belly buster sandwiches, big, juicy chargrilled Black Angus burgers, jumbo chicken wings and a whole lot more.

Whatever you do, do not, we repeat, do not pass up the Smoked Fish Dip, Lobster Reuben or Corny Blue Crab Cakes with New Orleans-style remoulade sauce. They are all absolutely fabulous and worthy Blue Ribbon winners. Big plates run the gamut from Shrimp Scampi, Seafood Combo Platter and Fried Shrimp to Chicken Marsala, certified Black Angus Steaks and slow roasted BBQ Baby Back Ribs.

Soar on in for Happy Hour at the inside bar Monday through Friday from 4 – 6pm or at the out-side tiki bar on Friday nights from 4-7pm when there is some terrific live music. FYI: The Sunday Brunch is just as wonderful and includes complimentary mimosas!

Discover this hidden gem just before the entrance of Card Sound Road at 21 Garden Cove Drive, MM 106.5, Oceanside in Key Largo. Info: 305-453-3746; buzzardsroostkeylargo.com. Rest assured — you won’t find a better waterfront spot to roost!

What’s your favorite Keys haunt?