Thanks to an invitation from Robert Fontaine of the Robert Fontaine Gallery in Miami’s Wynwood Arts District, I spent last weekend in Key West. Along with a group of about 20 people, we were there to celebrate the opening of Nick Gentry’s solo show XCHANGE–running now through May 4. Having lived in Key West for about four years before moving to Miami, it was sort of like two worlds colliding. We spent much of the long, leisurely weekend relaxing around the pool at our guest house, and we also made time for the Sunset Celebration at Mallory Square, dancing it up at The Green Parrot, and  snorkeling at the third largest reef in the world. It got me thinking about which places I’d recommend to my friends in Miami if they were to take a spring or summer road trip to Key West. Here’s how some of my favorite Key West spots stack up to popular Miami hangouts.
If you like Barceloneta or The Bazaar by José Andrés, then you’ll love Santiago’s Bodega
The dining room at Santiago’s Bodega
The first thing you need to know about Santiago’s Bodega is that it’s my favorite restaurant on the island. The second thing you need to know is that you’d have to try very hard for your bill to even come close to a meal out at The Bazaar by José Andrés, and don’t expect any high-flying molecular gastronomy, like “lime air foam” incorporated in your dishes. The ambiance is comparable to Barceloneta with an intimate, warmly lit, wooden-paneled dining room and an eclectic bistro vibe. The thing that these three restaurants share is their unique spin on traditional Spanish tapas. Santiago’s incorporates a Pan American twist into its dishes, with not-to-be-missed items including seared beef tenderloin topped with blue cheese butter, grouper filet encrusted with fennel seed and coriander, saganaki–haloumi cheese flambéed in brandy table side–and croquettas, pan-fried potato patties made with ground prosciutto and provolone.
If you like The Stage, then you’ll love The Green Parrot
Girls at The Green Parrot
The Green Parrot is easily the most loved bar in Key West. One block off Duval Street, it’s just far enough off the beaten path to make a difference. The Stage reminds me of it, with its airy indoor/outdoor setting and its focus on live music. On the weekends at The Parrot, expect an eclectic local crowd on the dance floor, seated at the back bar, and spilling onto the sidewalks to hear acts like Suenalo or the Spam Allstars. If you get hungry, forget about the latest trendy food truck parked in the backyard. The Parrot pops complimentary popcorn all night, and Mr. Z’s is just up Southard Street serving late night slices of pizza and cheesesteaks. Want to drink like a local? Order a round of root beer barrel shots for your party.
If you like A La Folie or La Sandwicherie, then you’ll love La Crêperie
La Crêperie was one of my first loves on the island. I was once addicted to their chicken paninis made with goat cheese and fresh black olive pesto, not to mention conversations with the loquacious and oh-so-French owners Yo and Sylvie. What was once a sandwich counter on Duval Street is now a sit down restaurant in the heart of Bahama Village on Petronia Street. Their sweet crêpes and savory buckwheat galettes range from the simple and traditional to the decadent and original. Try the Red Velvet crêpe, made with homemade raspberry chocolate ganache, fresh strawberries, almonds, and English custard ice cream topped with raspberry coulis. It’s a sweet stomach ache waiting to happen. On the savory side, La Mexicaine is an unusual and tasty option, made with refried beans, onions, avocado, tomato, sour cream, and swiss cheese.
If you like Lime or My Ceviche, then you’ll love Bad Boy Burrito
Taco Salad at Bad Boy Burrito
Of all the restaurants in Key West, I think I miss Bad Boy Burrito the most. This hole in the wall on Simonton Street serves the most delicious, nutritious burritos on the island. Using all natural and local ingredients whenever possible, the homemade sauces and authentic Mexican fillings hit the spot. Choose from Kobe beef, Key West shrimp, fresh caught fish, chicken, or tofu as your main filler, and then build your own personal burrito from their list of ingredients and sauces. Rice and beans come standard, of course. My go to is a tofu burrito with pico de gallo and verde sauce, avocado, queso fresco, cabbage, and jalepenos. Their menu also includes a selection of tacos, quesadillas, salads, and fresh pressed juices.
If you like O Cinema or Miami Beach Cinematheque, then you’ll love Tropic Cinema
Alright, I have to admit, I’ve still never been to O Cinema or Miami Beach Cinematheque. If a future hot date would like to impress me, feel free to take the reigns and plan a date to either theater. Considering they’re both independent, art house cinemas, chances are I’ll love them. However, they may not compare to my beloved Tropic Cinema. With four small theaters inside this Eaton Street gem of Art Deco splendor, the Tropic plays a variety of independent, foreign, documentary, and critically acclaimed blockbuster films. The beauty is, you can ride your bike there and order from the reasonably priced snack bar that includes beer and wine. Some of my happiest afternoons in Key West were spent at the Tropic watching a matinee solo.
If you like sunbathing on South Beach or kayaking Oleta River State Park, then you’ll love Fury Water Adventures
Captain Westy & Wanderlust Chameleon sailing home from the reef.
Finally, we are talking about South Florida and The Keys, and you can’t exist very long in either place without stripping down to your bathing suit and jumping in the water. In Key West, the best place to do this is offshore, and if you’re taking advice from me, I’m going to direct you to Fury Water Adventures (they don’t call me Fury Girl for nothing). Take your pick from snorkeling, parasailing, sunset sailing, jet skiing, dolphin watching, and so much more. If you don’t go snorkeling while you’re in Key West, you’re missing out. For a full day on the water, depending on your idea of fun, opt for either the Ultimate Adventure or the Island Adventure.
