Key West, Florida
Let’s take a little trip back to where it all began…Key West, Florida.
In November 1971 (note this year for a few paragraphs down), Jimmy Buffett arrived in Key West. Key West is a place of fascinating history and with Mr. B’s discovery of the island, it became a place that meant everything to him. Being in Key West changed his life. He referred to Key West as a place that “fed the creative soul.”
Over the course of the past twenty years, the Last Mango’s travels to the area gave Mr. B many fishing memories. While we thoroughly enjoy the fishing in Key West, we also enjoy the sights, sees and eats of the island. There is so much to see and do that this will not be the last you hear about Key West from us.
When we first arrive to the island, it is usually dinner time. We have many favorite places to share of the Key West dining scene but one of the top places on our list is Louie’s Backyard. In 1971 (do you remember the year?!), Louie Signorelli converted the Victorian style, oceanfront home he resided at into Louie’s Backyard. The restaurant originally seated twelve people and had only one waiter. Paying the most attention to the significant integrity of the building, Phil and Pay Tenney purchased and renovated the space in 1983. Through their successful efforts, Louie’s Backyard has earned its place in the National Register of Historic Places. Not only do you get a fabulous meal but the view might be the best part of your experience at Louie’s. We very much enjoy starting our night off with a bowl of Bahamian Conch Chowder with Bird Pepper Hot Sauce. In our opinion, any choice you make off of the entrée menu will be a winner but two of our top favorites include Seared Sesame Crusted Tuna with Ginger-Hoisin Sauce and Fried Rice and the night’s fresh catch. After all, a fresh piece of seafood in the Florida Keys is always a good idea. And while we are on the good idea’s of the Key West conversation, make sure you order a piece of the Key Lime Pie with Whipped Cream and Berries!
Another absolute must dine in during your time visiting Key West is Sarabeth’s. This restaurant is woman owned and offers a fresh, updated take on classic American cooking. In 1981, Sarabeth’s began formulating marmalade in her home kitchen from an old family recipe. From that modest beginning to now owning and operating a jam factory, wholesale products and 23 restaurants. Sarabeth’s story is a true American success story. During our breakfast visit, we chose the Eggs Benedict which were perfectly prepared. In fact, they were so good, we went back to Sarabeth’s for the rest of our stay every morning for breakfast! Sarabeth’s also offers lunch and dinner but if your travels take you to Key West during the busier times of the year, get there early to ensure getting seated!
One of our favorite places to stay in Key West is none other than Margaritaville Beach House Key West, where mi casa es su casa. From the lagoon-style pool to the beach access to the hammocks in the tropical gardens, you are bound to dive right into the Margaritaville state of mind. The open-concept rooms are thoughtfully designed to give you the license to chill that you so deserve. For a little afternoon pick me up, try the fruit smoothie samples daily at noon, every day!
Whether you are enjoying the Keys with your family or hanging out without the kids, The Key West Butterfly & Nature is a must visit! Be sure to bring your fully charged camera as it is a unique experience for everyone while being up close with some of the most beautiful sights nature has to offer. The atrium allows you to walk among hundreds of living butterflies and colorful birds – sometimes, even a flamingo or two sneak right by you. If you cannot make it to Key West, you can enjoy their webcam, which is always live on their website.
-Written by Sarah LaSorsa
