Ahhh - The Florida Keys!
What is a trip to Key West without a stop in Key Largo! And what's a worth the stop in Key Largo... Jimmy Johnson's Big Chill. This waterfront bar/restaurant is an awesome place to stop for a "Painkiller" and some yummy appetizers. I was sad I missed Jimmy by one day....He tweeted the next day that he was stopping in. Bummer!
Key West!
One of my most favorite places to go. I would call Key West a casual/tropical cross between Austin, Texas (Keeping Austin Weird) and New Orleans. Or maybe it's because you can drink on the streets... I don't know! I have only ever stayed on the water in Key West and I do believe it is the only way to go. Waking up to the sounds of water kissing the sides of the boat, seagulls flying above and the crisp morning air greeting you is the best.
The marinas are top notch -especially Conch Harbor! With showers, bars and restaurants right at your fingertips, it makes staying on the water very easy. Regardless of where you stay, an evening sunset stroll through the marina is not to be missed.
Some of my favorites places to go and eat in Key West:
Bagatelle is a higher end restaurant on Duval Street in Old Key West. Grab a table on the patio of this old converted home (built in 1884), order a great bottle of wine (they have one of the most extensive fine wine menus in the Keys) and sit back for a very enjoyable evening (watching the parade of people stroll by).
Santiago's Bodega is absolutely amazing! This tapas restaurant is not to be missed. Especially during happy hour from 5-7pm. $5 tapas and 1/2 price wine - cant beat it. Reservations are strongly recommended as this hidden gem is growing in popularity. Not a touristy place and slightly off the beaten path (aka - not on Duval Street). I loved stepping out of the cab to the sounds of chickens that were residents in the neighborhood.
A fan favorite - Sloppy Joe's! We spent every night here dancing the night away... and people watching here was amazing. There is a reason this place has live web cams! So if you are in Key West... stop in for a night you will probably forget.
And for those keeping it not so classy... don't miss Hog's Breath Saloon! Great bar food, live bands and they have a great BAR! I mean where else can you find a hog's ass hanging on a a wall???
Be sure to grab a few drinks and make some fun memories here! I'll drink to that! Everyone put your glasses up!
Key West is a place where you can let your hair down, relax and party as little or as much as you want. What is for sure that this magical place is never short of a good time!
