As you might expect, the best places to eat in Key West, and particularly during spring break, are all going to require reservations to avoid disappointment or long waits. The ambiance, the crowds, the nightlife and partying is going to be nonstop. Do yourself a favor and check out at least one or two of these excellent eating spots while you’re taking in all the wildness of this awesome time of year.

Deuce’s Off the Hook Grill, 728 Simonton St, Key West, FL 33040
Rated #9 of 314 Tripadvisor restaurants among Key West places to eat, this one comes with the lauded Certificate of Excellence. Dishes include Ellen’s Spanikopita, Special Seafood Risotto and the House Favorite, The Gobbler–Fresh Roasted Turkey Breast served over Bacon Mashed Potatoes on a Sage Stuffing Waffle. Topped with Rosemary Brown Gravy. With all-local flavor, here, you’ll find an intimate, bistro ambience for a seafood grill, with a great selection of fine wines and craft beers. In Old Town.

Barracuda Grill, 4290 Overseas Hwy, Marathon, FL 33050
This Keys eatery features unique fish-themed decor and offers patio dining, with an awesome eclectic menu starring local catch seafood. Fans rave about the Key Lime Pie and the Clam Chowder, but it also carries the Certificate of Excellence, which lets you know it’s all good, here. A favorite with locals who rave about the service as much as the food.

Thai Life Floating Restaurant, 1801 N Roosevelt Blvd Key West, FL 30040
If you only make it to one official restaurant during Spring Break, this is the one you’ll want to visit. This unique floating restaurant is a Key West highlight. Enjoy authentic Thai cuisine, with delish lunch menu and dinner is amazing. Here, you can even bring in your catch of the day and send it to the chef to cook for your dinner, however you want it prepared!

Louie’s Backyard, 700 Waddell Ave Key West, FL 33040
This waterfront dining hot spot is on the quieter side of the island, and the locals try to keep it a secret. Between the food and the view, it’s the finest. This upscale Caribbean-American eatery includes specials like conch fritters, spiced with hot pepper jelly and a yummy shrimp and grits made with Key West pinks, mushrooms and bacon. Upstairs, there’s a wine bar with delicious sample plates of food to try. The Afterdeck is an awesome outside spot to enjoy some drinks in a lovely waterfront atmosphere. Here, you MUST HAVE reservations. It’s THAT GOOD.

Restaurant in Key West

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Salute! On the Beach, 1000 Atlantic Blvd Key West, FL
Sister restaurant to the famous Blue Heaven, and with the same high level of standards. Directly on Higgs Beach, it’s a charming cafe where you’re fine in flip flops and tees at both lunch and dinner. Varied vegetarian fare, too. Diners find a laid-back, Caribbean-Italian style of food and gorgeous ocean vistas. Homemade ice cream sandwiches, and perfect Mojitos–plus all the best tropical cocktails. Hang out–you’re welcome here. And so is your dog, but not on the beach, where it’s not allowed.

Fogarty’s Key West, 227 Duval Street Key West, FL 33040
You’ll find this one-stop spot for the best frozen drinks, a diverse menu and hanging out to watch people. Visit the Flying Monkeys Saloon, to try their Dirty Monkey, which is a Banana Breeze made with vodka, vanilla ice cream and bananas, all mixed with Chocohol. Enjoy the open air patio or dine inside in a chilled comfort. Awesome array of scrumptious appetizers and entrees at reasonable prices. Try the Pecan Encrusted Mahi-Mahi, made with honey, pecans, deglazed with chardonnay and their signature Key West Sunset Sauce.