In the charming island city of Key West, romantic dining experiences are as diverse and intriguing as the area itself, creating a melting pot of culinary delight for couples. Enveloped in an atmosphere of warmth and intimacy under a starlit sky, this destination caters to all tastes with a variety of sophisticated waterside eateries and cozy bistros. So, grab your partner and prepare to embark on a journey of love and food in this southernmost city, as we explore some fantastic spots for a romantic dinner in Key West.
Latitudes on Sunset Key
When seeking a dining experience that’s slightly off the beaten track, Latitudes on Sunset Key manages to be both figuratively and literally so. It requires you take a seven or eight minute enchanting ferry ride to whisk us away from the hustle and bustle of Key West, but believe us, the journey to Sunset Key is worth every second. As the ferry cuts through the turquoise swell, and we’re treated to the sight of playful dolphins breaching the surface, we can’t help but appreciate the experience.
As the ferry docks, we are greeted with the sight of romantically set tables dotting the oceanfront. Here, the eating area sprawls out onto the sand itself. With a candlelit dinner and the sea lapping gently at your feet, love isn’t just in the air, it’s in the very ground beneath us. The sparkling waters of the ocean is a backdrop that ensures a truly enchanting dining experience.
When it comes to the culinary aspect, Latitudes stakes its claim with a fervor. World-class cuisine is a term often thrown about, but Latitudes delivers in spades. Whether we are sampling their fresh catch of the day, or enjoying their succulent lobster bisque, we soon understand why this place is a must-visit.
Blue Heaven
There’s a certain historic charm that Blue Heaven exudes effortlessly. From the quaint and quirky buildings to the fairy lights that canopy the outdoor dining area, dining here feels like stepping back in time. It’s a beautiful blend of history and contemporary culinary experiences that Blue Heaven offers its customers.
Adding to this charm is the live music that promises to serenade us as we eat. Outdoor tables are scattered across a large courtyard allowing us to enjoy the cool breeze and twinkling stars as we dine. If we close our eyes, we could easily be transported back to the town’s vibrant history of writers, pirates, and sailors.
Dig into the heart of Caribbean cuisine at Blue Heaven located at 729 Thomas Street. Their menu is packed with creative takes on traditional dishes, letting us taste the vibrant, exotic flavors of the Caribbean islands in every bite.
Bagatelle
The Bagatelle located at 115 Duval Street #6505 is beautifully ensconced in a historic mansion that only amplifies its allure. The 200-year old mansion is a testament to Key West’s storied history and charm, and to dine here is to be part of that rich heritage.
But the Bagatelle also knows how to wow the palate, it offers a fine selection of gourmet cuisine options. From the decadent truffle and mushroom risotto to the succulent fresh Florida lobster, Bagatelle’s menu promises to deliver an epicurean delight that is hard to forget.
It’s not just the food that captures our heart but also the dining environment. The al fresco dining experience at Bagatelle, under the delicate drapings amidst lush greenery, is a resplendent setting for a romantic dinner.
Antonia’s
For those who crave the romance of Italian dining, Antonia’s located at 615 Duval Street is the place to go. Walk through the door and it feels like we’ve been transported to a trattoria tucked away on a cobblestone street in Rome.
Antonia’s has a well-curated wine list that boasts a comprehensive selection. Their knowledgeable staff can guide us through a bespoke wine pairing for our chosen dishes, perfectly elevating our dining experience.
Their romantic candlelight atmosphere, delectable pasta, and dreamy tiramisu make for a captivating evening. It’s hard to leave Antonia’s without a piece of your heart still lingering there.
Hot Tin Roof
Perched on the harbor, dining at the Hot Tin Roof located at 0 Duval Street offers panoramic views of the marina that is guaranteed to leave us spellbound. The sky-changing shades during sunset, the flurry of sea activity, and the occasional sighting of a lazy seal basking on the piers is a visual treat.
When it comes to seafood, Hot Tin Roof knows its game. With a menu replete with delicious catches of the day, local prawns and oysters, succulent scallops, and the freshest of lobsters, it satiates our seafood cravings like no other.
And while we enjoy our food, sipping on one of their marvelous tropical cocktails works wonder. The bar slings ice-cold drinks that perfectly capture the bright, refreshing flavors of the tropics in every glass.
Louie’s Backyard
Louie’s Backyard located at 700 Waddell Avenue is a captivating dining spot set up in a vintage Victorian house. It’s warm, inviting, and oozes a sophistication that’s hard to resist. Couple this fabulous setting with a view of the vast Atlantic Ocean, and we have a winner.
Their Chef’s Tasting Menu is the star of the show here, taking us on a culinary voyage with its eclectic variety of dishes. Each plate is a masterpiece, showcasing the chef’s dedication to making every dining experience truly one of a kind.
El Meson De Pepe
El Meson De Pepe located at 410 Wall Street offers an experience of authenticity with its Cuban-Mex cuisine that’s nothing short of spectacular. The spicy nachos paired with tangy mojitos create an unforgettable blend of flavors.
Their live salsa music adds a dash of vibrancy, effectively setting the mood while the sun dips and paints the sky in a riot of colors. The sunset view from El Meson De Pepe is unforgettable, providing a romantic setting that perfectly complements their spicy and lively dishes.
A&B Lobster House
A&B Lobster House located at 700 Front Street brings us the very best of local seafood delicacies in a luxurious setting. The lobster bisque, seared scallops, and the Key West shrimp are some of the must-try dishes on their menu.
What makes A&B stand out further is that they ensure a picturesque harbor view from every table, something that amplifies the dining experience. Throw in the historic seaport atmosphere, and we have a dining experience that’s not easily forgotten.
Cafe Sole
Cafe Sole located at 1029 Southard Street has a intimate garden setting offers a relaxing atmosphere for a romantic date night. Its laid-back vibe combined with its delicious French-Caribbean fusion cuisine makes it a favored spot among couples.
The outdoor seating area, surrounded by lush greenery, is an invitation to enjoy a meal under Key West’s azure sky. Dishes like the duck `a l’Orange or the crab-stuffed hogfish are simply divine, taking us on a delectable culinary journey.
Nine One Five at The Parrot Key Resort
The Parrot Key Resort’s Nine One Five restaurant located at 915 Duval Street #5 champions modern dining, offering an upscale and contemporary twist on the traditional. It’s an elegant venue with a cozy atmosphere that claims romance with every inch.
Beyond just the exquisite interiors, their seafood and steak menu solidifies them as a foodie paradise. Freshly caught fish cooked to perfection or a perfectly charred steak is just the beginning of their mouth-watering offerings.
But what cements Nine One Five as a must-visit is the water vista views: the ocean itself. Watching the water shimmer under the setting sun as we indulge in our meal transforms our evening into a memorable and romantic experience.
With this fantastic selection of dining spots, Key West proves itself to be a romantic dining destination unlike any other, replete with enchanting views, mouthwatering cuisine, and unforgettable experiences.
