Key West Bite Restaurant: A Neighborhood Joint

Key West Bite Restaurant: A Neighborhood Joint - A sign on a wooden pole -

It’s more than just a bite at the Bight. Key West’s newest local eatery, Key West Bite is fast coming into its own as a low-key hangout with delicious food and even better prices. At the former PT’s on Caroline Street, owner Matthew Grant is transforming the space into a lighter, breezier version of a pub, replete with old wooden tables, a comfortable bar, TVs, darts and a newly refurbished pool table. Grant likes the idea of creating a “Cheers” for Key West and is working hard at getting to know everyone’s name.

No stranger to good food, Grant studied at Johnson & Wales University in Rhode Island and is bringing that flavor to the Keys. “Pub food should be simple but good, really good,” said Grant, who is sticking to the best sellers. Customers won’t know where to start, either, with nachos laden with homemade pulled pork, fresh salsa and guacamole or the specialty, homemade pizza grilled on the oven doused with tomatoes, mozzarella and olive oil. The menu has a bevy of favorites and staples like chicken wings, soups, salads and the best grilled cheese – served with any cheese you like. Grant has made sure it’s the best choice of bar food, from cheeseburger to chicken parmesan to shepherd’s pie.

“I am in my listening period,” said Grant, who is out serving the guests himself. “Someone suggested fish tacos, and we will probably start serving those too.” It’s hard for Grant to ignore any customer. He roams the dining room, vigilant to customers’ needs, bringing out pints and helping his staff.

“I have spent my life involved with community service, and believe in community,” said Grant. “I want the restaurant to reflect that attitude. I treat the staff and the customers like a family.”

Grant’s sincerity reflects in his prices. Most of the food is between $5 and $10, except the full entrees, which can be halved. Also with fresh chicken tenders and spaghetti and meatballs, kiddies can eat while playing in the outdoor area complete with corn-hole. Grant is hoping to put together some specials for the Super Bowl and looks forward to hosting local events. Find Grant there almost every day, menu in hand and a cold pint in the other, happy to know your name.  Check out the menu at www.keywestbite.com.

Restaurant: 11 a.m. – 11 p.m. 

Happy Hour: 3:30 p.m. – 6 p.m.

920 Caroline Street, Key West

 I pursue every costumer in a great way.    Matthew Grant of Key West Bite.

Hays Blinckmann is an oil painter, author of the novel “In The Salt,” lover of all things German including husband, children and Bundesliga. She spends her free time developing a font for sarcasm, testing foreign wines and failing miserably at home cooking.