Louie's Backyard pairs creative island-inspired food with one of Key West's most memorable waterfront settings. Set inside a restored oceanfront home at 700 Waddell Avenue, it offers indoor dining, open-air decks and a relaxed atmosphere that still feels special.
Dining at Louie's Backyard
There are three ways to enjoy the property:
- Main restaurant: Lunch and dinner are served daily, with brunch on Saturday and Sunday. Indoor and outdoor seating are available, and reservations are highly recommended.
- The Café: The upstairs space offers small plates, wine and elevated ocean views Tuesday through Saturday evenings. Seating is first come, first served.
- Afterdeck Bar: This open-air waterfront bar serves cocktails, wine and beer daily without reservations. Food is available at the bar top during restaurant meal hours.
Menus, Hours and Reservations
Louie's describes its cooking as island fare with a twist. Seafood is a highlight, while changing menus also offer meat, poultry, salads and vegetarian possibilities. See the lunch menu, dinner menu and weekend brunch menu before your visit.
- Lunch: Daily from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.
- Dinner: Daily from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m.
- Brunch: Saturday and Sunday; confirm serving hours when reserving.
- Café: Tuesday through Saturday from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m.
- Afterdeck Bar: Daily from 11:30 a.m. to 11:30 p.m. or later.
Main-restaurant reservations are made by phone at 305-294-1061 between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. Eastern time. Louie's accepts reservations for the current and following month, subject to availability. Review the official reservation details and confirm current hours before going.
Helpful Visitor Tips
- Dress: Casually elegant or resort-casual clothing is a comfortable choice. Exposed bathing suits, workout wear and men's tank tops are discouraged.
- Outdoor dining: An awning covers some tables, but weather may require guests to move inside. Sunset tables are popular and remain subject to availability.
- Families: Children's choices are available, but the restaurant does not provide highchairs or booster seats.
- Dietary needs: Some dishes may be adapted for gluten-free or vegetarian diners. Speak with your server.
- Service: Louie's is dine-in only and does not offer takeout.
Getting There From Key West Express
Louie's Backyard is approximately 1.5 miles from the Key West Express terminal at 100 Grinnell Street. The walk may take about 30 minutes, while a taxi, rideshare or bicycle offers a quicker option. Free street parking is available near the restaurant, but spaces can be limited; follow posted rules and avoid blocking driveways.
Browse the Key West restaurant guide for more dining ideas, or use the Key West Prepare & Go guide to plan attractions and transportation around your meal.
Frequently Asked Questions About Louie's Backyard
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Louie's Backyard is located at 700 Waddell Avenue in Key West, overlooking the Atlantic Ocean.
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The restaurant is approximately 1.5 miles from the terminal. Walking may take around 30 minutes, while a taxi, rideshare or bicycle can shorten the trip.
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Reservations are highly recommended for the main restaurant and must currently be made by phone. The Café and Afterdeck Bar operate on a first-come, first-served basis.
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Yes. The main restaurant currently serves lunch and dinner daily, with brunch offered on Saturday and Sunday. Verify current hours before visiting.
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Louie's describes the dress code as casually elegant. Exposed bathing suits, workout clothing and men's tank tops are strongly discouraged.
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Yes. Louie's has indoor and outdoor dining, including decks overlooking the water. Seating locations remain subject to availability and weather.
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Free street parking is available in the surrounding area. Spaces can be limited, and visitors should observe posted rules and avoid blocking residential driveways.
Explore Key West With Key West Express
Whether you choose lunch, dinner by the ocean or cocktails at the Afterdeck, Louie's Backyard can be a memorable stop during a Key West day. Travel from Fort Myers Beach aboard Key West Express, arrive near Old Town and explore the island at your own pace.
Review the Fort Myers Beach Prepare & Go guide and current ferry fares and schedule information. When the travel dates are ready, book your Fort Myers Beach ferry trip to Key West.
