The Florida Keys boast some of the most iconic eateries and bars in the world.
Creative culinary minds elevate local seafood to new levels and celebrate contemporary fusion, Cuban, Caribbean, Asian, French and other international influences. Our chain of islands is one of the world’s top food and drink destinations.
But our magnetic appeal goes beyond the menu. The skilled professionals who define our local hospitality industry do much more than mix creative cocktails and serve delicious meals. These hard-working men and women are ambassadors, social directors, travel advisors and unlicensed — but often effective — therapists.
To celebrate our unique culinary culture, Keys Weekly brings you this bi-weekly feature to highlight the food, libations and local personalities that define our “must-try” destinations across the Florida Keys.
Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a fifth-generation local, your options are endless. Indulge in something new or revisit a familiar favorite. And above all, support the local owners and loyal employees who are vital to our Keys communities.
DISH
Steak & Pork Tacos La
Isla Taco Grill food truck, 243 61st St Gulf, Marathon
These two tacos are the customers’ favorites, according to chef/manager Oscar Solis — and they’re a steal on Taco Tuesday, at $2.75 each. So if you have the munchies, stop by and get a dozen. Solis learned to make these tacos while working in a restaurant in Chihuahua, Mexico. Both the steak and the pork fillings have a kick due to his homemade red sauce. The marinated meat within the corn tortillas are also topped with onion and cilantro.
DRINK
Pucker Power Draft Beer
Florida Keys Brewing Company, 81611 Old Hwy., Islamorada
Think pink for your beer at Florida Keys Brewing Company in Islamorada. At least, that’s the recommendation of server Emma Thomson, who said customers rave about Pucker Power, a guava hibiscus sour that’s made in the brewery just down the street from the bar where it’s on tap. “We don’t get sours often because it takes so long to make,” she said. “It’ll be gone in a couple months. It’s bright and tart and beyond pink.”
SERVER
Mark Sealy
Four Marlins at The Reach Resort, Key West, Florida
Originally from Omaha, Nebraska, he has been in Key West for about six years.
Guests regularly ask for him by name — and he’s always ready with a recommendation. His recent lunch suggestion was Four Marlins’ yellowfin tuna poke bowl, served with seaweed salad, cucumbers, edamame, shredded carrots and housemade yum yum sauce.
As for the drink? That’s a Hemingway daiquiri.
