Brunch seemed straight forward and predictable until the Hot Tin Roof Restaurant located at Ocean Key Resort in Key West decided to kick it up a notch. Make a reservation, (seating goes fast), and settle in because it is a unique culinary experience.
Surrounded by the crystal blue waters off Mallory Square, the Hot Tin Roof sits above the docks with indoor and patio seating, all with ocean views. The elegant mahogany dining room feels suited for the feast and taste sensations about to ensue. Imagine a brunch tasting menu, where you get a little bit of everything. For a set price of $39, enjoy a full Bloody Mary bar with only premium liquor, 40 different hot sauces and 7 to 15 varieties of fresh pickles made fresh every week. Or relax with endless mimosas and/or a variety of Bellinis made with different juices to order.
The menu is full of traditional American faire with a southern Cajun touch such as chicken and waffles, spicy sausage and gravy and eggs Benedict. But it also touts a heavy seafood side with a chilled raw platter filled with fresh oysters, ceviche and shrimp or a house favorite, Southern Fried Grouper. But there is more, so much more — steaks or scallops, mahi mahi and quiche, waffles and pancakes.
The brunch is a huge success because the variety ensures diners don’t have to decide on just one item. In fact, order as much as you want, of whatever you want. Small plates make it possible to relish in the corned beef eggs Benedict and then move on to the seared scallop with pork belly, then cleanse the palate with poached pear with sweet mascarpone.
By the end, diners can brag they had a seven-course, four-star meal all while enjoying the ocean breeze. It is how Sunday brunch should be … fun, decadent and delicious.
“The menu changes from week to week. We challenge ourselves for locals to provide different cuisine.” -Mark Englehart, Hot Tin Roof manager
