Peter Althuis is not just the owner of Snappers, he considers it, and his employees family. “It takes a lot of work to be an ocean front establishment,” he said. In order to be a true oceanfront diner, it must be environmentally friendly. Straws are only given out upon request, and they work to limit the amount of paper and plastic used, opting instead of reusable plates and linens when possible.
Snappers is one of the only oceanfront restaurants in the Upper Keys, and that means a lot to the proprietor of this piece of paradise. Local fresh catch is always on the menu, whether it is grouper, yellowtail or mutton snapper.
While they are fully operational, work is still in process, fixing the ravages Irma took on the Key Largo staple.
“Right now we have six craft beers on tap, plus local brews. And, we have the coldest beer in town,” Althuis said. And when talking about running the business he acquired three years ago, he said, “I fell in love with the place, the Keys are just beautiful.”
Snappers menu boasts favorites of the locals as well as the tourists. The tuna nachos are popular — two fried wontons topped with Wakame seaweed salad, and tuna, finished with a drizzle of wasabi aioli. The fish tacos are another staple on this restaurant’s menu. Made with fish or shrimp, one can have them sauteed, fried or blackened, and they are finished with a Cilantro Key Lime sauce. When asked to describe Snappers, Althuis said, “Quality dining in a casual atmosphere”.
Bartender Kiki is happy to help patrons pick the perfect food and beverages. A number of cocktails are available, including the “Neener-rita,” named after their bar manager Janene, who has worked there for 26 years. The cocktail is made with Milagro gold tequila, Cointreau, muddled orange and lime with sour mix, served in a salt rimmed glass.
Great food, great views, and nightly entertainment make this a place worth the trip. Come by land or sea, and find food and fun at Snappers, 139 Seaside Ave., or MM 94.5.
