Experience Live Cuban Music
Mallory Square + El MesonMake sure to cap off your day at Mallory Square by experiencing their legendary sunset celebrations. The Key West Sunset Celebrationinvites everyone to partake in watching the glowing pink and red sun sink into the Gulf of Mexico horizon. The nightly festival hosts visitors from all over. Dance the night away to your favorite salsa tunes at El Meson De Pepe, located within Mallory Square. Or walk along the scenic attraction, enjoying the magicians, jugglers, clowns, psychics, local musicians, artists, and food vendors that star in this incredible cultural experience.
Green ParrotVoted the best bar in Key West, Green Parrots is the place to be for live music in the Conch Republic. This fun and vibrant spot features a fully stocked bar and some of the top local musicians playing live music of all genres. Drop in for a quick drink and youll be instantly drawn to the charm and fun of this hidden gem.
Sunset PierTheres always an event to enjoy at Sunset Pier. Voted one of the 10 best bars in Key West by Condé Nast Traveler, this outdoor spot features live music and the perfect views of the breathtaking sunsets in paradise. One visit to this tropical oasis and its clear to see what makes it so special.
Top 7 Places With The Best Cuban Food In Key West
There is no shortage of good food in Key West, and one thing is for sure, youll find some of the best Cuban food in Key West. One of our favorite things to do in Key West is eating! There are so many amazing restaurants in Key West that we could plan a whole vacation around food, and we have, lol.
If youve never tried Cuban food before, Key West is the perfect place to try some authentic Cuban dishes for the first time or try some of the best Cuban sandwiches ever. There are tons of restaurants serving up authentic Cuban food in Key West. It should be no surprise, Cuba is 90 miles south of Key West!
Weve put together our list of the best Cuban restaurants in Key West serving up delicious Cuban food. It would be a sin if you didnt have at least one Cuban sandwich in Key West!
What Is Cuban Coffee
Cuban coffee is a twist on the traditional espresso and hot water. The average cup of Cuban coffee contains more caffeine than a traditional Americano, making it richer and bolder in flavor. In addition, Cubans drink their coffee with sugar instead of after-dinner sweeteners to enhance the taste even further.
Its important to note that Cuban coffee varies depending on where in the world you order it. Some people believe that Cuban coffee should be made with dark roast beans, while others insist this isnt true and that Cuban coffee can be made with light or medium-roast beans.
This discrepancy is due to all the different factors that affect the flavor of a cup of Cuban coffee.
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El Meson De Pepe Restaurant
If youre looking for a long-standing, family-owned restaurant that is endorsed by the locals, then El Meson de Pepe will tick all the boxes. Its located inside a historic building in Mallory Square, just off the water where you can watch massive cruise ships dock while you enjoy traditional Cuban food in Key West.
El Meson de Pepe has been around for over 30 years and is one of the best restaurants on the Key West dining scene. One of the best parts is the live music with their famous salsa band, Caribe of Key West, which plays every night at sunset. With the warm air, the setting sun, and the traditional music, the atmosphere is perfect.
And its not all for showthe food is as good as the ambiance. Try the roasted garlic chicken, pulled pork platter, or beef picadillo. Guests also rave about their plantain chips if you want more of a snack, or skip straight to dessert with their flan casero with caramel. And, of course, snag yourself a signature Mojito from their patio bar during happy hour.
- Address: 410 Wall St, Key West
Who Has The Best Cuban Food In Key West
Well, it depends on who you ask, and based on our research and tastings, theres more than one winner. Lets go on a culinary adventure and tour the island for the best Cuban sandwiches, coffee, cafes, and restaurants. Well visit Anas Cuban Cafe, Sandys Cafe, Cuban Coffee Queen, Five Brothers Grocery Store, and Sandwich Shop, Fritas Cuban Burger Cafe, El Siboney Restaurant, and El Meson de Pepe.
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Key Wests Cuban Heritage
The San Carlos Institute is an iconic landmark founded in 1871 by Cuban exiles of Key West as an educational, civic, and patriotic center. Considered to be the cradle of Cubas independence movement, this historical building serves as a beacon of hope for many Cuban-Americans. It was there that José Martí united the exiled community to launch the final phase of his campaign for Cubas independence in 1892. Located on Duval Street, this institute provides the perfect glimpse into the fascinating relationship between Key West and the Cuban community.
The Cuban Guide To Key West
With only 90 miles separating the two islands, its no wonder that the Cuban flavor has been infused into Key Wests laid-back lifestyle. Floridas backyard paradise has served as a haven for Cuban immigrants for centuries, allowing the Cuban culture to seep into the roots of Key West. This guide will showcase the best spots to learn more about the history and sabor de Cuba around the Conch Republic.
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Best Places For Coffee In Key West
I am a coffee addict. Any kind. Cuban, French, Italian. Even coffee ice cream. I am always on the hunt for the perfect cup of Morning Joe. Given we are all creatures of habit, we find a place for a cup of morning coffee and never seem to seek other places. But, that is about to change. Here are the 5 best places for coffee in Key West. Tell me if you dont agree!
Key West coffee shops are everywhere. Some sell authentic Cuban coffee, while other coffee shops offer your traditional fare. So, who has the best Cuban coffee? Who locally roasts their coffee?
1. Cuban Coffee Queen
Really, who would argue with this one? With two locations in Key West, you are never too far from a Cuban Coffee Queen. I like the Duval Street location as it has seats and is a quiet place to enjoy some Cuban bread and coffee in the morning in the heart of Old Town. The Margaret Street location is a little busier and doesnt offer, other than a few benches, a place to sit and relax. In the heart of the historic seaport, the original location offers a place to grab delicious food and then wander and enjoy the sea views. My favorite order is always a Cafe con Leche with a Pan Cubano best breakfast . ever! Its basically Cuban toast, but, the bread makes it amazing. Great breakfast sandwiches always start with amazing Cuban bread. The Cuban sandwiches here are great sandwiches and will rivial any sandwich shop.
2. Sandys Cafe
Next stop
3. Funky Rooster Coffee House and Wine Bar
4. Best Coffee in Town
In Key West A Taste Of Cuban Coffee Culture
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We were sitting on benches, my new coffee mate, Anthony, and I. Side by side, half-listening to the baritone rumble of washers and dryers in the laundromat behind us, we watched the cars on Key Wests busy White Street glide by as the island slowly woke up on a Saturday morning.
Id only just met Anthony, a 65-year-old Key West resident of 17 years by way of Schenectady, N.Y., at the cafe, but he was already trying to school me on what matters in the city. We were holding twin plastic foam cups, each containing the thick creamy cafe con leche that White Street Sandwich Shop brews from its perch inside this laundromat.
Ive tried them all, Anthony said, in between waves at the occasional car rolling by whose driver called out to him. This is the best it goes down easy. He was right. Although the coffee is intense, the finish is silky. I immediately regretted having ordered just a small, which comes in a three-inch-tall cup.
People have many reasons for coming to Key West the sun, the ocean, the joie de vivre, Ernest Hemingways six-toed cats. But for people who want a taste of Cuban coffee culture without the bother of figuring out whether they fit one of the 12 reasons to legally enter the country, Key West offers the next best cafe con leche beyond Havana.
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Complete Guide To Cuban Coffee In Key West
Key West is famous for its close proximity to Cuba the islands are only 90 miles apart. But the two island destinations share more than just geographic proximity. Cuban exiles have found a safe haven in Key West as far back as the late 1800s when they first fought for independence from Spain. Founded in 1871, the San Carlos Institute on Duval Street still stands today as a cultural center and reminder of Key Wests relationship with the Cuban diaspora. One of the best ways to get to the connected heart of the Cuban and Key West cultures is through cuisine, and this is especially easy to do when it comes to Cuban coffee.
The History of Cuban CoffeeJose Antonio Gelabert opened the first coffee plant in Cuba in 1748 and production methods were later improved by French colonists at the turn of the century. Coffee production in the 19th and early 20th centuries became a major economic force in Cuba and a defining aspect of the culture. That is, until the Cuban Revolution and Castros regime beginning in 1959, at which time coffee production was nationalized. The island produces both Arabica and Robusta beans. While Cubas coffee production and exportation may not be what it once was, the cultural heritage of Cuban coffee lives on in Florida cities like Miami, Tampa and Key West.
Varieties of Cuban Coffee
Where to Find Cuban Coffee in Key West
Find The Best Cuban Food In Key West
El Meson de PepeLocated in the popular Old Town neighborhood of Key West and next to Mallory Square, El Meson de Pepe has been crafting authentic cuban food and drinks for more than 30 years. Enjoy the best mojitos and caipirinhas in paradise and witness the breathtaking Conch Republic sunset by the Patio Bar. This popular Cuban restaurant features classic dishes just like Abuela made them!
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Fritas Cuban Burger Cafe
Located on Southard Street in the heart of Old Town is where youll find Fritas Cuban Burger Cafe. A colorful, vibrant serving up traditional Cuban and fusion sandwiches as well as tacos.
In 2014, they opened with the goal of bringing the Cuban flavors of the Frita to Key West, Florida. Truth be told, we are glad they did!
Now to the question youve all been asking, what is a Cuban Frita? Its a burger, but not just any burger. The Frita burger is a blend of pork and beef seasoned with Spanish spices and originates from 1930s Cuba.
The Frita Burger A beef and pork patty seasoned with garlic and Spanish spices topped with onion, frita sauce and crowned with crispy fried house julienne potato on a freshly baked Cuban roll. An explosion of flavor! All photos courtesy of Fritas Cuban Burger Cafe.
RAVE REVIEWS
Best Cuban Burger anywhere!
We have been going to Key West for years and have eaten at Fritas at least 20 times. The food is made to order and always fresh. The coffee is like a trip to Cuba! My favorite is the Cuban Burger loaded! The owner Frita is always pleasant with a smile on her face! Our recent visit we observed all staff taking extra precautions, masks on and sanitizing surfaces. We ordered at the walk-up window. We felt very comfortable eating outside, well distanced. Cant wait to go back in three months!Sorry no pictures, I was too intent on eating! ~ Runandsunlover
The Best Cuban Food Spots In Key West
Key West is only 105 miles from Havana, Cuba. To put that in perspective, a flight to from Key West International Airport to Cuba would take less than 15 minutes. With that level of proximity, its no surprise that some really authentic Cuban food has made its way to Key West to the delight of locals and visitors alike. Here are our picks for some of the best places to visit if you want to get your Cuban eats on in Key West.
First of all, if youre looking for cubano sandwiches, we wrote a whole blog post on how an authentic one is made and the best places to get em . But here are some other noteworthy places to check out.
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The Original Sandys Cafe
Order to go, please! When you think of Sandys Cafe, you think of authentic Cuban and Conch Cuisine. Try the Cuban toast and Cafe con Leche to start your day, and if you decide to go there for lunch or dinner, try the Cuban Mix Sandwich. One word to describe it all AMAZING!
Sandys Cafe at the M& M Laundry on White Street is another cool Key West neighborhood location with a local following. A walk-up window, grab n go place to get great Cuban eats in Key West. Once youve tried the food, youll understand why they have been given the title The World Famous Sandys Café!
RAVE REVIEWS
O. M.G. The Cubanwe have been ruined for life for any other sandwich. The absolute BEST! And the owner/chef was so kind, came out to thank us the compliments. I have no better words to describe this sandwich other than we will eat it daily until we leave! Cuban for breakfast? Yes please! ~ Bonnie Lang Turnage, Facebook Review
Open for Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner305-296-4747
Cuban Coffee Queen offers traditional Cuban eats, sandwiches & smoothies to-go.
RAVE REVIEWS
Besides the killer Cuban Sandwiches and Cafe con Leche, the story of Cuban Coffee Queen is all about love.
One day in Cuba,who made the best coffeeand Cuban toast.and showed me how to makea real cafe con leche.I will never forgetthe Cuban coffee Queen.
The Locations and Hours
Five Brothers Grocery And Sandwich Shop
This is your neighborhood hangout for authentic Cuban coffee and eats. If you want to know where the locals go, the answer is at Five Brothers Grocery and Sandwich Shop. Its your go-to morning pick me up for Cafe con Leche, Cuban toast, and the to die for guava pastries. Dont be surprised if you see our first responders close by as its there go to as well. Its a Key West staple where youll more than likely meet new friends while waiting in line. Its well worth it!
This is a family-owned and operated grocery store and a Cuban sandwich shop. In addition to the morning coffee and Cuban toast, a favorite of ours is the roast pork sandwich, and you cant go wrong with any of the desserts.
RAVE REVIEWS
We agree Jonathan!
Starbucks had better hope that these guys dont ever decide to expand nationwide- best coffee.~ Jonathan Parmet, Google Review
Gordon Dillon had this to say about Five Brothers Grocery and Sandwhich Shop, If you travel to Key West, make sure you visit 5 Brothers for the best coffee, Cuban sandwiches and burgers. Its a small inconspicuous place with unbelievably good food and value for money. If it was open in the evenings, theres a good chance it would be the only place Id eat all day. Its that good.
Five Brothers Grocery and Sandwich Shop is a hidden gem, and another grab n go favorite for authentic cuban coffee, sandwiches, pastries and desserts. While biking around the island, make sure to stop here and experience it yourself.
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Top 3 Reasons To Eat Here
Holy cow! If you want some authentic, delicious Cuban food in Key West, look no further! The food is amazing, the coffee delicious, and the staff friendly. It tastes exactly how my mom makes! We had dinner here and came back for breakfast the following…morning. If I could take them home with me, I would!More
Everything is absolutely excellent. The coffee is excellent, the food is really fresh, authentic and prepared just like homemade. The service is outstanding. It is hard to find service like this anymore. Ive eaten here twice and Im going back in the morning. Breakfast and…lunch are both equally amazing.More
This is run by a wonderful lady from Nicaragua. She makes everything from scratch herself. The bowl of scrambled egg over rice and beans was especially good.
Having found this place through TripAdvisor, I can only say that all the mega-positive reviews were absolutely spot on! The staff was super welcoming and friendly, and the food indeed held its own. Were heading back for more brekky before we leave Key West for…sure and you should as well. You will not be disappointed!More
I stopped in here almost every morning for coffee. We finally got breakfast, and it was wonderful. So good, that we went back for lunch. Their Cuban sandwich mix was perfect, but the ham croquettes were to die for. I loved the atmosphere, music, and…staff.More