Key West has a habit of doing food its own way.
You’ll find lobster rolls served from tiny storefronts, wildly creative tacos coming out of a food truck and fresh seafood that tastes even better when you’re wearing flip-flops. A few of these colorful local spots have even caught the attention of Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives.
Three Key West-area restaurants received the national spotlight. Two are still serving hungry island visitors today: DJ’s Clam Shack and Garbo’s Grill.
If you’re arriving aboard Key West Express, loosen that belt a notch. This is going to be a delicious day.
Two Key West Favorites Still Serving the Good Stuff
Here’s the quick answer for hungry travelers:
- DJ’s Clam Shack: 629 Duval Street
- Garbo’s Grill: 409 Caroline Street
- Bad Boy Burrito: Former Key West-area location now closed
Menus and hours can change, so check with each restaurant before heading over.
DJ’s Clam Shack: Big Seafood From a Little Duval Street Stop
It would be easy to stroll past DJ’s Clam Shack without realizing just how much seafood goodness is tucked inside.
This casual Duval Street restaurant mixes New England seafood traditions with Florida Keys flavor. The result is a menu filled with overstuffed Maine lobster rolls, conch fritters, garlic-steamed clams, mahi-mahi tacos, shrimp po’boys and clam chowder fries.
Yes, clam chowder fries are a thing. Yes, you may need them.
DJ’s Clam Shack is the kind of Key West stop where you can wander in wearing shorts and sandals, order at the counter and dig into a lobster roll without making lunch a formal production.
Grab a seat, pass the napkins and try not to stare at everyone else’s order.
Garbo’s Grill: A Tiny Food Truck With Serious Flavor
Garbo’s Grill proves that some of Key West’s biggest flavors come from its smallest kitchens.
Parked at Hank’s Hair of the Dog Saloon on Caroline Street, this local food truck serves a playful mix of island-inspired tacos, burgers, burritos and hot dogs.
The Korean BBQ tacos bring together marinated beef, crunchy vegetables, citrus-soy dressing and sriracha. The Cayo fish tacos add mango, jalapeño and Caribbean sauce to the fresh catch of the day. Then there’s the Umami Burger, topped with tomato, bacon and chipotle Gouda.
Decisions, decisions.
Garbo’s Grill also offers vegetarian and vegan choices, making it an easy stop when your group cannot agree on what everyone wants to eat.
Add live music, cold drinks and the wonderfully casual atmosphere at Hank’s, and you have a lunch stop that feels unmistakably Key West.
What Happened to Bad Boy Burrito?
Bad Boy Burrito was another Key West-area restaurant that received national attention, but its Stock Island location has closed.
The business now directs customers to its related restaurant in Islamorada. That makes it part of the Key West food story—but not a current stop for your Key West dining plans.
We’d rather tell you before you arrive hungry and find a locked door.
Choose Your Food Adventure
Key West Express arrives at the Historic Seaport at 100 Grinnell Street, putting you close to Old Town and its seemingly endless supply of tempting places to eat.
Garbo’s Grill is on Caroline Street, not far from the waterfront. DJ’s Clam Shack is farther into Old Town on Duval Street, where it can become part of an afternoon filled with shopping, sightseeing and people-watching.
Could you eat at both during one day trip? Technically, yes.
Should you also leave room for Cuban coffee, conch fritters and Key lime pie? Absolutely.
Choose one restaurant for your main meal and let the rest of your food adventure unfold naturally. Half the fun of Key West is spotting something delicious that was never part of the original plan.
Our Stress-Free Key West Ferry Day Trip Plan can help you fit lunch, sightseeing and Old Town exploring into your island visit.
Key West Food Is Bigger Than Any Television Appearance
National attention may put a restaurant on someone’s travel list, but Key West’s food story has been simmering for generations.
Bahamian, Cuban, Caribbean and Florida Keys influences meet on menus across the island. Fresh fish shares the spotlight with Cuban sandwiches. Conch fritters appear beside creative tacos. Key lime pie is available everywhere—and everyone has an opinion about who makes it best.
Some restaurants have waterfront dining rooms. Others operate from food trucks, walk-up windows or little buildings you could miss if you blinked.
That variety is what makes eating in Key West an adventure. You don’t have to chase famous restaurants or follow a rigid food itinerary. Just arrive curious—and hungry.
Sail Into Your Key West Food Adventure
A great Key West meal deserves a better beginning than hours behind the wheel.
Key West Express lets you relax during the Gulf crossing instead of navigating the Overseas Highway and searching for island parking. When the ferry arrives at the Historic Seaport, you’ll step off within easy reach of Old Town’s restaurants, attractions and waterfront.
Your toughest decision may be whether to order seafood, tacos or both.
Book your Key West Express trip and start planning a Key West day filled with sunshine, island flavor and at least one meal you’ll still be talking about on the ride home.
Photo Credits: DJ's Clam Shack and Garbos Grill, respectively. Hero Image: Piqsels
