If you’ve got a craving for Cuban food that just won’t quit, Key West is calling your name. Nestled at the southernmost tip of the United States, this island not only boasts turquoise waters and breathtaking sunsets, but also a rich Cuban influence that’s woven into every corner of its culture. Whether you’re a lifelong aficionado of Cuban cuisine or a first-timer, the vibrant flavors of the island’s food scene are sure to hit the spot. And if you’re heading down to Key West, get ready for a feast of epic proportions.
A Taste of Havana in the Florida Keys
Key West’s proximity to Cuba has long made it a melting pot of cultures, and the Cuban influence is alive and well, especially when it comes to food. From tender, slow-roasted pork to perfectly pressed Cuban sandwiches, this island is a haven for foodies who love the bold, zesty flavors that Cuban cuisine delivers. Walking through the streets of Old Town, you’ll find yourself pulled into the aroma of simmering spices, fresh bread, and roasted meats that call out from every café and restaurant.
Whether you’re grabbing a bite at a sidewalk café or dining at a local staple, Key West has an endless array of Cuban dishes that will make you feel like you’ve been transported straight to Havana.
Eaton Street Seafood: Cuban Flavors Meet Fresh Catches
While Key West may be known for its Cuban fare, seafood lovers will find plenty to celebrate as well, especially at Eaton Street Seafood Market. This spot combines the best of both worlds: fresh catches from the sea with a hint of Cuban flair. Whether you’re indulging in their famous fish tacos or savoring a Key West pink shrimp dish, Eaton Street Seafood serves up flavors that reflect the island’s rich Cuban influence.
Start with a plate of their conch ceviche—bursting with lime, cilantro, and a little kick of spice that’ll remind you of classic Cuban flavors. If you’ve got an appetite for something hearty, their lobster rolls are a must-try, and they also offer freshly prepared fish sandwiches that melt in your mouth. Eaton Street Seafood is a spot where Cuban spice meets coastal freshness, giving you the best of both worlds on a single plate.
A Fishing Adventure with Fish All In Charters
For those who want to experience Key West’s connection to the sea firsthand, there’s no better way than with a day out on the water. Hop aboard with Fish All In Charters for an adventure that combines fishing with the laid-back island vibe that Key West is famous for. Captain Garret Frey will guide you through the waters, where you can try your hand at reeling in snapper, mahi-mahi, and even the famous tarpon.
For Cuban food lovers, fishing offers a chance to bring home the freshest catch, which you can cook up with a touch of lime, garlic, and cilantro—turning your own catch into a feast worthy of a Cuban kitchen. If fishing’s not your thing, the calm waters around Key West are perfect for a sunset cruise, letting you kick back with a cold drink and enjoy the stunning scenery.
Cuban Classics You Can’t Miss
Key West may have its share of seafood and tourist-friendly spots, but for Cuban food lovers, there are a few must-try dishes that you won’t want to skip. Start with a classic Cuban sandwich—pressed, toasted, and stuffed with roast pork, ham, Swiss cheese, pickles, and mustard. It’s a bite of Cuban flavor in a handheld package, and you’ll find it at any good Cuban café on the island.
For something heartier, ropa vieja—a traditional Cuban dish of shredded beef simmered with tomatoes, onions, and spices—will warm your soul. Pair it with a side of black beans and rice, and you’ve got yourself a meal that’s both comforting and full of flavor. Don’t forget to try Cuban-style coffee while you’re there. It’s strong, sweet, and the perfect pick-me-up before heading out to explore the island.
Exploring Key West’s Cuban Heritage
Key West isn’t just about the food—there’s plenty of history and culture to explore as well. The Cuban influence in Key West goes back over a century, and you can see it in the architecture, the music, and the people who call the island home. Be sure to check out Mallory Square, where Cuban street performers add a bit of Latin flair to the island’s famous sunset celebrations.
El Meson de Pepe, located right in the heart of Mallory Square, is a great spot to soak up some of that Cuban heritage. This restaurant has been serving authentic Cuban food for decades, with dishes like picadillo and lechón asado (roast pork) that are the real deal. As you sip on a mojito and enjoy the sounds of live Cuban music, you’ll get a taste of the island’s deep connection to Cuba.
A Sunset Celebration Like No Other
The best way to cap off a day in Key West is with a trip to Mallory Square, where the island’s famous sunset celebration takes place every night. Locals and tourists alike gather to watch the sun dip below the horizon, and the celebration is filled with food vendors, street performers, and live music that create a lively atmosphere.
For Cuban food lovers, this is the perfect opportunity to grab a bite from one of the many street vendors offering Cuban street food. Think empanadas, fried plantains, and other tasty treats that are easy to enjoy while taking in the stunning views.
Key West: A Cuban Food Lover’s Dream
For anyone with a love of Cuban food, Key West is more than just a vacation spot—it’s a culinary destination. From fresh seafood at Eaton Street to the island’s many Cuban restaurants, you’ll find no shortage of delicious eats that celebrate the flavors of Havana. Add in a fishing adventure with Fish All In Charters, a walk through the island’s Cuban history, and a sunset celebration to top it all off, and you’ve got the perfect recipe for an unforgettable trip to the Florida Keys.
So, pack your bags, fuel up on Cuban coffee, and set your sights on Key West—the island where Cuban food and tropical adventure meet.