The Florida Keys offer a total escape from ordinary life. There is nothing like sun, sand, live music, and beautiful boats to set the backdrop for a fantastic lifestyle. People who visit or live here find they don’t need to worry about maintaining a rigid schedule. When the sun comes up, it’s time to head out to the water or hop on the boat for a day of relaxation you cannot get in other places. An active day of kayaking, exploring the beautiful waters, or fishing will have you wanting to enjoy this lifestyle permanently.
As the sun begins to sink in the sky, it is time to begin discussing your evening plans, including dinner. Since the weather is always terrific and the water gorgeous, eating al fresco is definitely the best way to cap off your day. There are tons of restaurants that you can easily access from your beach house in Key Largo, but here are several hotspots and a few off-the-beaten-path gems that you will enjoy.
The Buzzards Roost
Photo courtesy of The Buzzards Roost
Did you land a nice fish while fishing from your boat but are now too exhausted to figure out how to cook it? Pull your boat up to the Garden Cove Marina to refuel and drop your catch at The Buzzards Roost. As long as your fish is in filets, they will be happy to prepare it for you in one of their styles, such as blackened or picatta. You can just sit back and enjoy a cocktail, like the Fuzzy Buzzard or a frozen pina colada, and watch the boats come in and out of the water while they do all the hard work. If you were not so lucky on the seas, they have plenty of options on their menu for you to choose from. Starting with the ceviche is a refreshing move after a day of soaking up the sun on a boat. There is something for everyone in the family on their menu, from the fresh catch of the day to a filet mignon. Depending on your late-night plans, end your dinner with their coconut cake or a strawberry daiquiri.
Bayside Grille
Photo courtesy of TripAdvisor
Watching the sunset over the water is something people love to do while visiting Key Largo beach homes. There is something about that sun setting into the water that closes the day in a spectacular fashion. You could choose to do this quietly on the water or find a spot at the Bayside Grille and take it all in with a cold drink swirling in your glass. Have dinner at this expansive open-air restaurant that is raised to provide fantastic views of the water. Order a glass of your favorite Chardonnay and the smoked fish dip and settle in from your busy day while taking in the view. Vegetarians and healthy eaters will love the green papaya salad served with a rice vinegar-chile dressing. The catch of the day is not something you want to miss from the menu, as the freshest fish is combined in a unique sauce featuring famous key limes combined with white wine, garlic, and butter. There are also fabulous options for the meat-eaters in the family and even a kids’ menu if you have them in tow.
When it is time for the sun to dip into the water, head down to the Sunset Bar, where you will find live music, great cocktails, and people enjoying the laid-back vibe. You can stay later into the evening and dance the night away, or saunter back to your beach house in Key Largo and settle down among the comforts of home.
Key Largo Fisheries Backyard Cafe
There is nothing like the taste of fresh fish. Key Largo Fisheries takes local to an entirely different level with their Backyard Cafe. Not only are they a fish market that gets their stock from boats that pull right up to their dock and unload, but they also prepare everything right on the premises. The fish never leave their building before getting to your plate. Their backyard is alive with live music, boats coming in and out of the docks, and wildlife. The menu is packed full of selections, from soups and salads to fried yellowtail and a kids’ menu. If you have other plans for the day but need to pick up something for the boat, order sandwiches for the trip.
Pilot House Restaurant & Marina
Locals have been in love with the atmosphere at the Pilot House Restaurant since the 1950s. If you have decided to search for homes for sale in Key Largo, you definitely want to visit this landmark place. They have everything from a fantastic Sunday brunch to prime rib dinners and daily happy hours. You can reserve a boat slip at their marina and hop into the bar to catch a game or listen to live music with a draft beer and a delicious meal.
Baker’s Cay Resort
Photo courtesy of Conde Nast Traveler
Fresh herbs, on-site fruit trees, and fresh local seafood are the stars of the show at this resort featuring fine dining and unique experiences. Whether you are having Sunday brunch or a romantic dinner, you will love the creations cooked up by the culinary team. The team creates truly delightful dishes inspired by the wonderful things growing around them. There are several different on-site dining options at the resort, including Calusa, which boasts indoor and outdoor seating with panoramic views of the water, or Dry Rocks, which features live music and fire pits in a relaxed atmosphere by the beach.
Key Largo is an absolutely wonderful place to visit and an even better place to call home. The lifestyle here allows you to relax even when working or running errands. The weather is gorgeous, the people are nice, and the restaurant scene is expansive. If you have decided it’s time to begin the search for your perfect piece of Key Largo real estate, the agents at Ocean SIR would be happy to help you explore the town.
