The Best Hotels in the Florida Keys for Waterfront Dining
What is it about dining by the water that makes any meal that much more special? Is it the intoxicating views? The exorbitant prices usually encountered? Perhaps it’s the breeze that lulls us into a state of rarely found relaxation? Whatever it is, when you find a venue that offers both an impressive panorama and epicurean enticements, it can change your world--or at least rock it for a while. With that said, we hope you’re hungry... and ready for a change. These are the best waterfront hotel restaurants in the Florida Keys.
The Islander, A Guy Harvey Outpost Resort
Why it made the list
Of all the waterfront dining options, this is the least fussy. It’s super casual, poolside, oceanfront, and live music is a frequent addition to your lunch or dinner. The cheeseburgers (in paradise) exceed expectations; Cuban sandwiches are pressed hard with the right bite of pickle, and the obligatory Keys’ Mahi-Mahi sandwich comes blackened with unique layers of apple-smoked bacon and cilantro mayo.
Oceans Edge Key West Hotel & Marina
Why it made the list
The new kid on the block has lots of offer its guests, starting with open-air views of the marina (that is frequently visited by manatees) and the elegant pool deck with its colorful dancing water. The décor gives a serious nod to industrial, but the menu is all fresh Florida seafood with an enjoyable Caribbean twist. To start your meal on a flavorful note, get the conch chowder--it’s one of the best versions, even by Bahamian standards. Dining is al-fresco so come as you are and make peace with the humidity.
Playa Largo Resort & Spa
Why it made the list
On the backside of the property, on the second floor of a freestanding building, you’ll find Sol by the Sea. This open-air café offers more than bay breezes and wonderful views, the Caribbean-influenced menu is interesting and flavorful. Sure, you’ll find standard fare like fish tacos, but opt for the soft-shell crab version. If you want an express ticket to Flavor Town, order the grouper in curry with mango.
Cheeca Lodge & Spa
Why it made the list
Three waterfront restaurants at one sprawling resort: Atlantic’s Edge, Limoncello, and Nikai Sushi Lounge. While each offers a different tasting journey, all offer ocean views, indoor and outdoor seating, and attentive service. The Guava-Glazed Mahi at Atlantic’s Edge is a fan favorite, but save room for dessert at Limoncello--the key lime cannoli are crunchy and tart with the precise amount of sweet.
Sunset Key Cottages
Why it made the list
Voted one of the most romantic restaurants in the nation, ‘Latitudes’ is where you can sip martinis with your toes in the sand and view the sail boats as they glide along the horizon of a colorful Key West sunset. Seafood is locally sourced so the menu evolves around what’s fresh, but one can hope for the rosemary pan-roasted cobia. The baseball-sized crab cake is perfect for sharing, or savor every sweet bite yourself.
Ocean Key Resort & Spa
Why it made the list
Romance is in the air at Hot Tin Roof, a dimly lit and most beautiful restaurant, from the ceiling panels to the hardwood floors. Views of the harbor are impressive, too. And wait till you see the extensive menu--where to start? How about with the chilled seafood offerings, like lobster sofrito or mojo verde crab salad? Just say, “YES!” No need for a full dinner, share their small plates and taste your way around the Caribbean. Day Boat Friday is for fish lovers, where the local catch is the star.
The Reach, A Waldorf Astoria Resort
Why it made the list
Carnivores, rejoice! USDA Prime hand-cut filets, 72-hour short ribs, and a rib eye that will make your knees buckle--welcome to Spencer’s by the Sea. Seafood offerings are just as impressive with ginormous shrimp and a crab cake with more jumbo lumps than a Rocky movie. Ocean views can be enjoyed on the veranda or inside amidst the dark woods and illuminated nature photography. Don’t miss their richer-than-rich flourless chocolate cake.
Little Palm Island Resort & Spa
Why it made the list
You won’t find another dining experience quite like this anywhere. Reserve a table just steps from the Atlantic, where the flames of Tiki torches dance in the ocean breeze and the reflection of the moon shimmers on the vast span of the Atlantic. And then there’s the cuisine. Sure, you’ll have to take out a bank loan, but who cares? You can feast on Châteaubriand with shaved truffle while key deer gingerly walk past your table. The only thing that is underwhelming is the name of the restaurant, The Dining Room.
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