Top Picks

BEST KEYS SUNSET CELEBRATION
Lor-e-lei Restaurant & Cabana Bar

Cited as one of the “Best and Brightest Spots in Florida” by Power and Motoryacht Magazine, this casual, family-friendly hangout is home to the world famous Lor-e-lei Fishing Guides and lively Sunset Celebration. Great casual fare with an array of tasty sandwiches, fresh local seafood, ribs, steak and chicken. Live entertainment by local bands. Happy Hour specials from 4-6 pm Major credit cards. Open Daily for breakfast, lunch, dinner. Find it at MM 82, Bayside, Islamorada. 305-664-2692; loreleifloridakeys.com

BEST FISH HOUSE
The Fish House
If the name fits — and here it does because this bustling joint is the hottest seafood spot in town and gets constant raves from locals and visitors alike. Big portions, a fun, friendly staff and a Keysey atmosphere complement an extensive menu that includes chowders, stone crab, shellfish, native fish, steaks and pasta. Find it at MM 102.4, Oceanside, Key Largo. 305-451-HOOK; fishhouse.com

BEST LOBSTER BLT
Key Largo Fisheries
Until recently, we always thought there was nothing like a great Maine lobster roll. Of course, that was before we stumbled upon the “Backyard Cafe” on the docks behind Key Largo Fisheries and discovered their signature Lobster BLT. Perfectly cooked, firm-tender lobster (not fried – Sacre Bleu!) is generously heaped on a buttery croissant fused with crisp bacon, juicy ripe tomato slices, fresh Bibb lettuce and a healthy slather of spicy mayo. Also first rate: the incredible Lobster BLT Soup loaded with bacon and lobster, along with lots of other delicious sandwiches, salads, and fresh seafood baskets. Wine & Beer. Cafe open Mon. – Sat. 10 am – 8 pm Retail Market: Mon. – Thurs. 7:30 am – 5:30 pm and on Fri. & Sat. ‘til 7 pm Find it at MM 99.5, Oceanside at 1313 Ocean Bay Dr., Key Largo. 305-451-3782; keylargofisheries.com

BEST DOGGONE ITALIAN FOOD
Ciao Hound Italian Kitchen & Bar
Raise your paw if you like Italian food! This unpretentious, dog-friendly eatery dishes up big portions of traditional Tuscan recipes and also offers an exclusive “doggie menu” with fido favorites like the “Hen House Chicken Strips.” People pleasers also abound with favorites like Pasta e Fagioli, Braised Short ribs and Lobster Ravioli. Gluten-free options, too. Find it at 84001 Overseas Hwy in Islamorada. 305-664-5300; ciaohound84.com.

BEST PLACE TO GRAB A BURGER
Reel Burger
What’s better than hanging out by the beach in your flip flops and chowing down on a really GREAT burger? For Islanders like us, not much. And that’s why Reel Burger at the Amara Cay Resort in Islamorada is our go-to spot for this simple pleasure. Made-to-order with a custom blend of ground beef, the signature burgers here are extraordinarily good – especially when they’re backdropped by an expanse of palm trees, sea and sand. Served with a crunchy pickle and your choice of Kettle Chips, House Slaw or crispy fries, these Bad Boys are just what the Sun God ordered. Lots of other yummy handhelds, too, along with fish, chicken and vegetarian options. Find your place in the sun at Amara Cay Resort, 80001 Overseas Hwy. 305-664-0073; amaracayresort.com.

BEST Island Chic
Snook’s Bayside
Hidden away at the end of a private lane, just off US 1, this chandeliered Grand Tiki with its flickering torches, lush plantings and SOBE-style sofa lounges is oh-so-chic! A gorgeous, open-air dining area, sprawling 5,000 sq. ft. patio and multiple bars all have 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 dishes, won high fives from the show’s panel of judges and are all made to order. Truly a great place to kick back with a rum punch and grab yourself a piece of paradise. Find it at MM 99.9 Bayside, Key Largo. 305-453-5004; snooks.com

BEST DEAL IN TOWN
Keys Pawn
Maybe it’s just us, but when we think “pawn shop” we think “eh, maybe not.” Not so with Keys Pawn. This place is like no other pawn shop we’ve ever seen (even the ones on TV). The folks here have been supplying dealers from all over the world with luxury watches, high end jewelry, rare antiques and collectibles at super low prices for over forty years. Now they’ve opened this new brick and mortar with a terrific ever-changing inventory that also includes a wonderful collection of rare guitars. The prices and selection are phenomenal so if you’re into snagging great deals, this Pawn’s for you! Find your next treasure at 91551 Overseas Hwy., Tavernier. 305-962-1956; keyspawn.com.

BEST PORTERHOUSE STEAK
Ziggie & Mad Dog’s
Truth be told, you can’t go wrong with anything on the menu of this legendary Keys’ landmark because all the food here is truly world-class. Steak lovers will revel in the tender 12 oz. Center Cut Filet, tasty 16 oz. New York Strip and full flavored 21 oz. Bone-In Ribeye, but it’s the 28 oz. “Czonka” Porterhouse that is totally over the top. Team one up with a linebacker-size baked potato and you’ve got yourself a winning combination. Open daily at 5:30 pm for dinner. Full bar. Major credit cards. Find it at MM 83 Bayside, Islamorada. 305-664-3391; ziggieandmaddogs.com

BEST FAMILY RESTAURANT
Key Colony Inn
Overlooking the fairways of the Key Colony Beach Golf Course, this long time institution has the feel of an old time country club. An extensive menu of seafood, continental and Italian favorites has made it a favorite with the Key Colony Beach crowd and other in-the-know locals. The weekend prime rib special always packs the place and the Sunday Brunch (in season only) is the best deal in town. Open daily for Lunch from 11 am – 2 p.m; Dinner from 5-10 pm Find it at MM 53.5, Oceanside on West Ocean Drive, Key Colony Beach. 305-743- 0100; kcinn.com

BEST SHARK ENCOUNTER
Aquarium Encounters
Ok, ok, so maybe going nose-to-nose with a 600 lb. shark is not your idea of a great day at the beach. Especially when it flashes those pearly whites at you. But fear not. At Aquarium Encounters in Marathon, you can dive or snorkel in a ginormous Coral Reef Tank among colorful schools of reef fish and face off with giant sharks, goliath grouper, moray eels and other denizens inhabiting the adjoining Predator Reef Tank. Separated by a 6” clear plexiglass window, the Predator Reef Tank is equipped with a small underwater portal where you can actually hand-feed the sharks. Landlubbers are also welcome to catch the underwater action from the main viewing room. Find it at 11710 Overseas Hwy., MM 53 Gulfside in Marathon. Info 305-407-3262; floridakeysaquariumencounters.com.

BEST INNOVATIVE
SEAFOOD JOINT
The Square Grouper Bar & Grill
Chef/owner Lynn Bell and her top culinary crew are creating the most intriguing small plates and entrees, pastas and ever-changing specials, making this hip roadside Bar & Grill a true “Destination” restaurant and earning it a “Top 10” ranking in the Florida Keys & Key West restaurant scene. The Eggplant Stack – fried eggplant, pesto, goat cheese and marinara is particularly wonderful. Other favorites: Square Grouper Seafood Stew with a spicy, creamy red broth; Toasted Almond Encrusted Grouper with warm Caribbean pineapple relish and the Jasmine Rice Bowls. You’ll also find a terrific selection of boutique wines and craft beers. Open Tues. – Sat for lunch and dinner (and on Mon. from Jan – April Major credit cards. Find it at MM 22, Oceanside, Cudjoe Key. 305-745-8880; squaregrouperbarandgrill.com

BEST DESIGNER JEWELRY
Little Switzerland
A stroll through Little Switzerland is like walking through the “Who’s Who” of brand name designer jewelry. You’ll find lots of innovative collections from today’s top fashion icons including sleek, sophisticated designs by Roberto Coin, Marco Bicego and Ippolita, contemporary classics from famous names like David Yurman and John Hardy and trendsetting favorites by Pandora and Avance. LS also stocks a terrific selection of top of the line watches from Omega, Breitling and Tag Heuer as well as a sensational collection of diamond and precious gemstone jewelry. Located on the harbor front at 271 Front St., at Margaritaville Key West Resort & Marina. 305-293-8600.

BEST BOUTIQUE SPA
Ocean Wellness Spa
For one of the most inherently authentic, totally relaxing “Key West” experiences, Ocean Wellness Spa takes top honors. This charming retreat always earns rave reviews and is the place to go for restorative and luxurious spa treatments. Seasoned, professional therapists offer their regimens in nine distinctive treatment rooms using mostly organic, natural products. You’ll find an extensive menu of services here including massage, body treatments, facial/skin care, spa mani/pedis, as well as a full line of salon services offering hair care, Keratin treatments, eyelash extensions and more. Ocean Wellness Spa also provides the licensed services of acupuncture physician, Michelle Wischmeyer, who has extensive experience in Eastern traditions and medicine. If you’re looking for an exceptional experience, this is definitely your place in the sun. Find it at 829 Simonton St, Key West. 305-320-0500; oceanspakeywest.com

BEST “ Steak With A View”
Commodore Waterfront Restaurant
The seafood is wonderful here but it’s the steaks that really get your mouth watering. Prime beef at its best, cooked perfectly and prepared in a variety of ways. (Inside Tip: Go for the Cowboy Steak) And to top it off – a terrific waterfront location overlooking luxury yachts at the Historic Seaport. Dinner nightly from 5:30-10:30 pm Find it at 700 Front St., Key West. 305-294-9191; commodorekeywest.com

BEST SUSHI
Ambrosia
Chef/Owner Masa and wife Noriko are making waves at Key West’s hip, vintage Santa Maria Hotel where their edgy sushi restaurant and sake bar is renowned for its authentic, artfully crafted plates including Masa’s premium bluefin tuna creations and other full-flavored dishes like the Spicy Seafood Carpaccio with fresh jalapeno, sweet onion and Yuzu pepper paste. Tradition and innovation collide with all kinds of intriguing signature rolls including the Hamachi Heat – an addictive fusion of snow crab salad, jalapeno and tempura topped with hamachi, jalapeno slices, Shichimi powder and a side of spicy ponzu. Lots of other Japanese specialties here, too along with an eclectic selection of artisan sake, fun saketini’s, wine and beer. Find it at 1401 Simonton St. For reservations call 305-293-0304; keywestambrosia.com

BEST HAPPY HOUR & TAPAS
Tavern N’ Town
There are Happy Hours and then there are really “Happening” Happy Hours and this one is all that. Locals flock here nightly from 5 – 7 pm for the generous 2 for 1 cocktails and the revolving lineup of top-notch entertainment. But what really hits the ball out of the park are the Tapas Nights on Tuesday and Thursday where globally-inspired small tasting plates of gourmet appetizers are all artfully prepared and elicit appreciative nods from top food aficionados. The creative delectables are always changing and you can easily make a meal out of several small plates. FYI: Dinner here is just as wonderful and the restaurant is a two time recipient of Key West’s Master Chef Competition. Open nightly at 5 pm Find it at the Key West Marriott Beachside Hotel, 3811 North Roosevelt Blvd, Key West. Call 305-296-3676; beachsidekeywest.com

BEST FEMALE ILLUSIONISTS
The Aquanettes
Key West’s own talented troupe of female illusionists transform into a bevy of beauties using elaborate costuming, makeup and lip sync. The adult-oriented, hands-on interactive show, Reality Is A Drag, runs nightly at 9 pm with two shows on Fri. and Sat. at 9 pm and 11 pm. Get there early for good seats and pre-show photo-ops. Aqua Night Club, 711 Duval St., Key West. Reservations: 305-294-0555; aquakeywest.com

The Keys’ Top 12 Places To Dive
Florida Keys: Summertime in the Florida Keys and the livin’ is easy! Warmed by the sun, both the southern Atlantic and the Gulf are radiantly clear, making our subtropical waters ideal for scuba diving and snorkeling.

North America’s only living coral reef parallels the Keys’ 126-mile chain of 31 islands and is home to an undersea world filled with a myriad of natural wonders, shipwrecks and buried treasure. This is a perfect time to take the plunge so here are some of the Keys’ not-to-be-missed spots.

USS Spiegel Grove
1. Located just six miles off Key Largo, the 510’ Spiegel Grove is the largest ship ever intentionally sunk as an artificial reef. Resting on a flat sand plain 130’ deep, the massive size of this 84’ wide wreck is a sight to behold. The highest point starts at around 60’, with a maximum depth of 134’. Some favorite spots on the wreck include the crane area, the coral-covered gun mount and the American flag, waving proudly in the current.

Christ of the Abyss
2. Located in the John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, this 4,000 pound, solid bronze statue stands 9’ tall and with a depth of just 15,’ the site is great for both snorkelers and divers. Easy-to-navigate tongue-and-groove coral formations teem with angelfish, barracuda and even the occasional turtle. This site makes for some spectacular photo ops. However, as tempting as it may be, do not touch the iconic statue because it’s covered in fire coral. Unless you want to take home a painful souvenir, keep your distance.

Eagle & Alligator Reef
3. Just a few miles offshore from Islamorada lies another spectacular dive site: Eagle and Alligator Reef. The Eagle, a 287’ freighter that was sunk in 1985, lies about 110’ down. Exploration begins at about 65’ to 70’. The ship is heavily covered by marine growth and attracts schools of tarpon and permit, two of the Keys’ premier game fish, as well as angelfish and dozens of tropical species.

Thunderbolt
4. Marathon, which is midway between Key Largo and Key West, is the site of this 188’ military ship sitting perfectly upright in 115’
of water. Sunk in 1986, the wreck is covered by a thick coating of colorful sponges, corals and hydroids. Angelfish and jacks swim around the superstructure and a jewfish estimated to weigh 500 pounds stands guard near the bow.

Sombrero Reef
5. Marked by a 140’ lighthouse, world famous Sombrero Reef is one of the most magnificent coral reefs in the Middle Keys. With depths ranging from 5’ to 35’, this protected marine preserve is perfect for divers and snorkelers of all levels.

Adolphus Busch
6. Featured in a 1957 Robert Mitchum and Rita Hayworth flick titled “Fire Down Below,” this 210’ long ex-movie-star freighter was sunk in 1998 and sits majestically upright in 110’ of water off of the Lower Keys. The ship now plays host to a new cast of characters, including a pair of approximately 400-pound jewfish, hovering trumpetfish, large permit and colorful tropicals. Adventurous divers can swim inside the ship to experience the thrill and mystery of a penetration dive.

Looe Key
7. Looe Key, a 5.5-square-mile protected underwater ecosystem, is actually named after a frigate which sank here in 1744.
Although the wreck no longer exists, the coral here creates an unrivaled undersea oasis. Often cited as the most beautiful
coral reef in North America, Looe Key showcases an incredibly diverse population of tropical fish, corals, sponges, hydroids and shellfish. A wide variety of depths ranging from 1’ to 30’ makes for easy snorkeling and diving.

Joe’s Tug
8. Located just off of Key West, this 75’ tug boat sank under mysterious conditions. At just 65’ below the surface, it’s an easy and
rewarding dive for both beginner and advanced divers. Soft and hard coral formations along with large sponges surround the tug which is inhabited by friendly moray eels, impassive grunts and curious snappers. Visibility is also generally good, making it a magnificent locale for photos.

Alexander’s Wreck
9. Just a few miles from downtown Key West and 30’ down in the Gulf of Mexico, is Alexander’s Wreck. This 300’ long destroyer
escort lies in two sections, about 150’ apart, but after 30 years of being underwater, it looks more like a reef than a wreck. Oysters shroud its hull while nurse sharks and nudibranchs, corals and crustaceans add to this diverse ecosystem.

West Sambos
10. Four miles south of Boca Chica lies one of the prettiest reefs in the world. The site is part of a strictly protected ecological reserve and boasts the greatest habitat diversity in the Lower Keys. At the west end, in just 25’ of water, grow large fields of coral. In slightly deeper water, large stand-alone coral heads dot the sea floor. Each coral head supports a community of sea creatures — fish above, shrimp on the edges and lobsters in crevices.

Gen. Hoyt S. Vandenberg
11. Located off of Key West, this former 520’ military troop transport is the world’s second largest purpose-sunk vessel and home to a healthy population of marine life. Sitting 140’ below the surface, most of the massive wreck lies 40’ to 50’ down which makes it a great dive for both novice and experienced divers. Check out the dish antenna, weather-balloon hangar, crow’s nest, 20’ smokestack and bridges covered in corals.

USS Wilkes-Barre
12. Built in 1942, this former 608’ long, 10,000 pound WWII cruiser is by far the largest ship to be reefed in the Florida Keys. Located off Cudjoe Key, the ship rests in two separate pieces in 140’ to 250’ of water and serves as an artificial reef. Each half is a separate dive. This is one of the Keys’ deepest dives and is only recommended for very experienced decompression divers. If you can manage it, this is a must-see site and one of the most impressive wrecks in the area.

Photo Credit: Christ of the Abyss statue in the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary off Key Largo, Fla. Photo by Stephen Frink/Florida Keys News Bureau