The Big Pine Flea Market

Every Saturday and Sunday from 8:00 am until 2:00 pm, people come from all around to the Big Pine Flea Market. Saturday is the most crowded because if weather permits, all of the stands are open. On Sunday, if the weather is slightly iffy, a good majority of the stalls will be closed.

The Flea Market is not your normal flea market of used items and other people's junque .
Most of the stalls offer new and unique items, as well as food and fresh produce. It is more likely that you'll find what you need at the flea market as opposed to the Kmart in Marathon. There is a junk shop that specializes in $1.00 items, boating supplies, fishing stuff, a couple of clothing stalls, lots of different kinds of jewelry sellers, pocketbooks, hand-made items, a hardware store, and old (and some newer) books. You name it, it's there. We often buy our weekly produce there, but have since found a road side stand right across the highway that has better stuff and is less expensive.

So go, have fun and be sure to buy a bag of the infamous donut holes that are sold in the stand at the front entrance to the flea market. They are warm, sugary and the perfect thing to eat as you're wandering through the flea market. Big Pine Key Flea Market 30250 Overseas Hwy Big Pine Key, FL - (305) 872-4103.

No Name Pub

Update: January 14, 2016. No name pub remains the same - no nonsense, delicious food, and very decent bathrooms.

You've probably seen plenty of T-shirts with No Name Pub emblazoned on the back. It seems everyone who goes there buys some sort of Tee. And why wouldn't they, the No Name Pub is a happening place and the oldest bar in Florida. It's unique, friendly and very, very popular so don't be fooled by their slogan, "It's a nice place to visit.....if you can find it." Hey, there was a day when no one knew where it was, but as the years have past, everyone knows where it is.

The first thing that will strike you about the place is that there is always a line waiting to get it. It doesn't matter if it's 11:00 am or 7:00 pm, there is always a wait. Fortunately, they have picnic tables outside under umbrellas where you can sit and drink a couple of brews while you pass the time.

The second thing that will get your attention once you get inside is that the walls and ceiling are covered with dollar bills!  Yep, that's right from floor to ceiling! We've heard that every once in a while, the owners remove some of the money and donate it to a local charity, but that could just be local folk lore. If you opt to sit at the bar you'll notice that one side of the bar has very short bar stools and the other side has very tall bar stools - so tall that they are difficult to climb up on. Like I said, it's a unique place!

We've been there many times over the years, but I personally haven't been there since 2011. All of the food has always been consistently good. They specialize in pizzas (there isn't one on the menu that isn't amazing) - and they are plenty big enough to share. Ray particularly likes the Cuban and I love the white pizza. If I remember correctly they only have a wine and beer license so don't be surprised if you get there and you can't order a mixed drink.

The bathrooms used to god-awful, but they have since improved greatly in the last few years.

No Name Pub is located on North Watson Blvd. (1 1/2 mile north of US 1) on Big Pine Key, Florida, 33043; 305.872-9115; Directions: turn at the traffic light on Big Pine and stay to the right of the vee;  drive past the entrance to the Winn Dixie. Continue to the first street on the left. Follow that street around the curve and continue for a mile of so. No Name Pub is on the left. Keep your eyes peeled for Key Deer when driving there - they are usually around trying to find food, but remember, it's against the law to feed them. Their website leaves a lot to be desired, but its www.nonamepub.com.

The Conch Republic

The Conch Republic is located in the historic seaport district in Key West, overlooking the KW Harbor and Marina. It is a large 80 ft. bar and resteraunt known for their many varieties of rum (quantity-80) - the biggest between Cuba and Miami. Their food is pretty good overall and that's why they're always busy. You might have to wait for a table, but there are usually seats at the bar. They have some outside seating that are high-top tables with large market-style umbrellas overhead. While the expansive garage-style doors are always left open, they are air conditioned. Their happy hour runs from 4:00-6:00 (I think) and it's two-for-one wine, rail drinks and beer, (may not include wine). When we order food it's usually a hamburger or a salad with blackened fish on top so I can't really comment knowledgeably on their food except to say that whatever we've ordered there has been tasty. I can vouch for their Conch Chowder though - it's good! They offer an eccletic Carribean inspired menu. Every afternoon they feature live island-type music. The Conch Republic Seafood Company also boasts an impressive Raw Bar with Oysters, Clams, Stone Crab, chilled Key West Pink Shrimp and succulent Royal Red Shrimp. Of course, they also have certified Black Angus steaks, tender pork chops, mouthwatering chicken entrees, succulent ribs, tempting pasta dishes, and an exciting variety of surf and turf options. We find the adjacent metered parking lot a great place to park because it's central to much of the Key West that we like to visit. If that lot is full, there is parking next door in the dirt lot for an-all-day parking fee.

Conch Republic Seafood Company®
631 Greene Street
Key West, FL 33040
305.294.4403
info@conchrepublicseafood.com

Caroline's

Voted Best Lunch Place by USA Travel, Caroline's on Duval in Key West is a really sweet open-air restaurant with a large offering of salads and sandwiches for lunch and more hearty plates for dinner. Regardless, each meal is prepared well and presented beautifully. Ray and I have eaten there many times and have always enjoyed great service and excellent meals. Our friends, who live on Stock Island, visit Caroline's frequently and always rave about their food. Yes, their burgers really do look like this - plentiful and moist - hard to beat.

The first time we ate there was for lunch. I had a salad with blackened shrimp on top and Ray had a fish sandwich. Both of our choices were plentiful and flavorful. The second time we ate there it was for dinner. Ray ordered a blackened chicken pasta that was extra cheesy and yummy, and I ordered blackened chicken with black beans, rice and plantains. The chicken was moist and cooked to perfection.  The black beans, rice and plantains were authentically pleasing.

The ambiance is purely Key West style. The wait staff are super friendly and the service is fast. We love sitting outside on the shaded patio for lunch or under the stars for dinner watching the passersby on Duval Street. The whole patio is mostly shaded with large market-style umbrellas and is rather large. They also have a small bar that overlooks Duval Street so it's a great place to people-watch. Ladies - the bathroom is not the greatest, but is not the worst I've seen either. Since there is only one women's toilet you might imagine that its not always the tidiest and there is usually a short line of one or two.

Carolines is located in the heart of Key West at 310 Duval Street; 305.294-7511. Their website says they have free delivery within Old Key West. www.carolineskeywest.com.

The Square Grouper

Update: January 2016 - Square Grouper now has an upstairs lounge that opens at 4:20 p.m. Why 4:20 you ask. Well, April 20th (4/20) is embraced by pot smokers around the world as Weed Day. Need I say more? Need more info? Feel free to Google it. My New Joint is a cocktail lounge and tapas bar. They offer a raw bar (think fresh shucked oysters), specialty cocktails, wines by the glass and bottle, 15 draft beers, 170 bottled beers, and a full tapas menu including salads and fondues - cheese and chocolate! My New Joint also offers Daily Specials Tuesday - Friday and they always have some mellow performers playing softly in the background. Happy Hour is from 4:20 p.m. - 6:00 p.m. 305-745-8880 My New Joint - "because two joints are better than one."


What can I say, The Square Grouper is, hands down, the best restaurant in the lower keys - bar none! If you ever have a chance to go there do so - you won't regret it. Owner-chef Lynn Bell turns out the freshest seafood, finest meats, and the most delicious homemade desserts on the planet.

Don't let the exterior fool you. While the building is simple in architecture and made of sturdy cinder block, the interior is cute and the decor "Keyse." But it's the food, ahhh, the food that will transform you. We went there recently with another couple and were all blown away by the service, the extensive wine list, and the friendly atmosphere. They only have a beer and wine license, so go with that in mind. The bar is small, but if you can find a spot, you can also order the entire menu at the bar.

I ordered the special of the day - Prime Rib - that was done to perfection. It came with perfectly-cooked asparagus (I like it with the slightest crunch) and the most delicious long grain and wild rice that I have ever consumed. Ray was happy as a clam when he saw meatloaf on the menu (he is an aficionado by the way), that was also served with asparagus (that he kindly off-loaded to my plate) and a mound of creamy mashed potatoes smothered with gravy. He was in heaven! One of our friends ordered lobster in a rice bowl and the other friend ordered lobster in a pasta bowl. They said they were simply fabulous. While the prices are a little higher than most restaurants in the lower keys, they really are pretty modest in relation to the amount and quality of food you get.

The Square Grouper Bar and Grill is located at 22658 Overseas Highway, Cudjoe Key, Florida 33042; squaregrouper@aol.com; 305.745-8880; www.squaregrouperbarandgrill.com. Closed Mondays, Lunch 11:30-2:30; Dinner 5:00-10:00. The Square Grouper is an environmentally friendly restaurant. All of their paper products and straws are made from corn.  The also have a kids menu so there is something for the whole family. They are always crowded and do not take reservations, so go prepared to wait. You can wait outside or you can go into their adorable backroom and enjoy a glass of wine or a beer.

Little Palm Island

Every year Ray and I treat ourselves to lunch on Little Palm Island. It's so luxurious and we are so pampered that we can't help but feel like celebrities. There is a dress code, so we take things up a notch and pretend, if only for a few hours, that we actually have some class!

The only way to get to Little Palm is by their private ferry that is located on Little Torch Key at the corner of Pirates Road and Overseas Highway at approximately MM 28.5. You must make a reservation and you must be on time because the ferry is on a strict schedule. The ride to the island takes less than 15 minutes. Or, you can really treat yourself and arrange for one of their seaplanes to pick you up.

The restaurant at Little Palm has several shaded porches, as well as indoor seating. There are tables out on the beach at the water's edge, but I understand it can get a little hot out there if the sun is shinning brightly. The Key Deer are prevalent and one couple we know had the bread swiped right off their table.  Please don't feed the Key Deer. They have a very delicate digestive system and you would be doing them a disservice.

Little Palm also has bungalows for rent. While we've never stayed there overnight, they look charming - the whole island does for that matter.  Whatever you decide to do there - lunch, partake in their elaborate and fabulous Saturday buffet, dine under the stars, or stay an entire week, be sure to take your check book and/or credit card - they are pricey indeed! Cell phones are permitted only if set on vibrate. To talk on it you are asked to move to a remote location.

Little Palm Island Resort and Spa is a Noble House property. Check out their website - it will make you salivate!  www.littlepalmisland.com, 800.343.8567

Islamorada Fish Company

Islamorada Fish Company is one of our favorite places to visit. There is so much to do there. It is home to Pro Bass, a beautiful retail store that sells not only every kind of fishing/boating item, but sells games, books, and clothing for the entire family. They're a little pricey, but their goods speak for themselves.

Upstairs is Zane Gray's, an upscale bar decorated with rich mahogany wood. They provide delicious Bloody Mary's and other upscale libations. Zane Grays is located on the 2nd floor of the store and offers seating either inside, or outside on the veranda. Ray is a margarita officienado and has given Zane Gray's a thumbs up.

Downstairs and across the lawn is the Islamorada Fish Company that consists of two outside bars and an outdoor restaurant that has seating under a shelter as well as seating on their man-made beach. All of this surrounds a man-made lagoon that is always filled with huge tarpon and barracuda. If you want to feed the fish you can buy a bag of bait shrimp from their fresh seafood market.  Our favorite food to order is the Grouper Reuben - it is yummy and plenty for two. We also recommend their red-skin potato salad. Yummy!

The name "Islamorada" means "Purple Isle".  The name was given by the early inhabitants of the Florida Keys in 1907.  The restaurant was first opened in 1948!

If you're looking to loose yourself for a couple of hours, this is the place to go.
81532 Overseas Highway, Islamorada, Florida, 33036, MM 81.5; http://restaurants.basspro.com/fishcompany/

Deer Run B & B

On days when the weather isn't so good and Ray and I feel the pull to get out of the house, we jump in our truck and go exploring. Yesterday on our way back from running errands, Ray made a sudden turn onto Long Beach Road at MM 33 at the Big Pine Fishing Lodge, "just out of curiosity." Some of the houses down that stretch of this deadend street were quite beautiful and sit right on the Atlantic Ocean. About 2 miles down we spotted a sign for Deer Run B & B along with scads of Key Deer roaming all over the road. Since we had never heard of the inn before I decided to Google it when we got home.

Deer Run B & B is a laid-back, all natural, all veggan, and all green bed and breakfast located smack on the Atlantic Ocean. While we've never stayed there and I can't vouch for it's quality it did look quite charming and that's why I'm including it here. A small nugget of paradise hidden on a less-traveled road. Their official address is 1997 Long Beach Road, Big Pine Key, Florida, 33043; 305-872-2015; deerrunbb@aol.com; www.deerrunfloridabb.com.

Even if staying in a B & B isn't your cup of tea, take a ride (very slowly now) down Long Beach Road to see the Key Deer - they are literally everywhere. But, be careful, they think nothing of running out in front of your vehicle.

Porky's Barbecue Seaside

I have to admit, when I first visited Porky's and took a look at the menu I was skeptical. It seemed like everything was going to either be smoothered in barbecue sauce - of which I am not a real fan - or it was going to be fried - of which I am also not a fan. For that reason I opted for a plain ole burger. Ray choose a blackened fish sandwich. I'm happy to report, we were both pleasantly surprised.

I ordered my burger medium well with bacon and sauteed onions. It was done perfectly and was absolutely huge - the menu says it's 1/4 pound, but I swear it was even bigger than that. It was served on a soft kaiser roll with lettuce, tomato, cole slaw and a pickle spear on the side. Yummy!  Ray said his fish sandwich was good too. Ray had 2 beers and I had an unsweetened iced tea and our bill was $28.00 w/o tip.

Porky's is located bayside in Marathon at MM 47.5 next to Captain Pip's. It is a funky open-air place with all kinds of interesting paraphernalia hanging from the walls and ceiling along with scribbled messages from former patrons. Country music waffles quietly in the background.The two waitresses that were working the day we were there were friendly and attentive. While the ladies room was kinda small and dingy, with a door that barely closed, it was clean and fully efficient.

305.289-2065. Happy Hour 3-6 p.m., Live Music Nightly from 6:30-9:30 p.m. porkeysbaysidebbq.com

Turtle Kraals

Turtle Kraals Tower Bar, located at 231 Margaret Street in the seaport area of Key West, is probably one of the least expensive happy hours that we've ever experienced.  From the outer end of the bar where we were sitting on this spectacular day, we had a great view of the beautiful Key West Harbor and all the boat comings and goings. If we looked just a little the other way we were able to enjoy another Key West sunset. Happy Hour is everyday from 4:30 - 6:30 p.m. They offer a bucket of bones (barbecued spare ribs, $5); Chicken wings (melt in your mouth tender and tasty, $5.75); a black bean and cheese quesadilla and one or two other things - not sure of those prices, but remember them as being cheap. They have their own smoker there and their HH food is really good.

Ray had a couple of Miller Lite bottles that were $1.88 each. I had a Mount Gay and Diet Coke that was $3.00, plus a glass of white wine that was only $3.50. Where else can you go and find prices like that? The bartenders, while busy serving the tables and tending the bar, were friendly and on-the-ball.

The only drawback of the tower bar is that the modern, clean bathrooms are downstairs on the first floor all the way around the bar near the front door. It's a bit of pain, but the prices and the view will keep us going back.

Music Friday and Saturday from 5:00-9:00 p.m., 305.294-2640, www.turtlekraals.com. If you visit their website I think you can print out a coupon for a free margarita.

Sombrero Beach

Sombrero Beach is located in Marathon, MM 50. If you turn onto Sombrero Road next to the Kmart and drive a mile or two you can't miss it.

Sombrero Beach, in this writer's opinion, is the best beach in the Keys. Renovated a couple of years ago, the beach is well maintained. They provide ample parking, a sandy volleyball court, pavilions, outdoor showers for rinsing off before getting into your car, and large bathhouses that are easily accessible.  At one end of the park are swings and other climbing equipment for the kids. There are no life guards on duty so you swim at your own risk.

The sand is fine and white and the view spectacular. Admission is free. This beach is certainly at the top of my list, so grab your beach chair and sunscreen and pack a lunch so that you can spend the entire day there. You won't be disappointed.


There are countless websites where you can read about Sombrero and the countless other beaches in the Florida Keys.

Bahia Honda State Park

You have not been to the Lower Keys until you've been to the award winning beachs at Bahia Honda State Park. What a diamond in the rough! Located at MM 37, Bahia Honda holds over 500 acres to explore and enjoy. There are kayak rentals, snorkeling, a gift shop and snack bar, as well as lots of other family fun.

Bahia Honda boasts two beaches - Calusa Beach that overlooks the Overseas Highway and the now defunct yet famous Henry Flager Coast Railway bridge, and Sandspur Beach that is located on the Atlantic Ocean side of the park. While I prefer Calusa Beach, many would disagree with me. If you opt for Calusa Beach be sure to walk up the path and go to the top of the Henry Flagler bridge. The view is spectacular. Or, enjoy watching the boats that often anchor in the harbor for the night.

The park is open from 8:00 a.m. until sunset and provides showers, clean restrooms and a drop-dead gorgeous panoramic view!  Sorry, no pets are allowed on the beaches.  There is a nominal entrance fee. For one person/vehicle it's $4.50; 2 people $9.00; 4 people $9.50, etc., so the more people you have in you vehicle the cheaper it is.  There is also plenty of boat slips in the marina, but I am unsure how all that works. Check out the website or call for more info. Enjoy!

Coral Reef Park Company, Inc.; Bahia Honda State Park; 36850 Overseas Highway (MM 37); P.O. Box 430516; Big Pine Key, FL 33043; Phone 305-872-3210; www.bahiahondapark.com; Email info@bahiahondapark.com

The Wharf Bar and Grill

Update - February 2016. The Wharf is under new ownership, but I think that is a good thing. The fresh seafood market and produce stand is gone, but a brand new tiki hut roof has been installed over the bar making this a great place for an outdoor Happy Hour even if it's raining.The place has really been cleaned up yet still has a good island vibe and their food is still as good as ever. 

We have eaten at The Wharf Bar and Grill on several occasions.  While I wasn't particularly impressed the first time I went there, I am extremely impressed now. The place has gone from a sterile atmosphere to a real Keys kick-ass establishment. This is our go-to place now because it's close, the servers and bartenders are friendly, there are always locals on-hand, and it just has a great Florida Keys vibe.

The last time we were there we had six very hungry eaters in our party. While three ordered fish po boys and two ordered cheeseburgers, I opted for a fresh salad with blackened fish on top, accompanied by a homemade tomatoe puree vinegrette and feta cheese.  All of us were very pleased with our selections. All the sandwiches came with homemade veggie chips. For an upcharge of $1.75 you can order french fries. We sat on the patio by the water's edge, but there is plenty of seating inside if you're so inclined.

The Wharf Bar and Grill is accessible by boat. The entrance is a little precarious so be certain to navigate carefully through the make-shift channel. Go between the white poles and pilings (and I use that term loosely). There is limited room to tie up to the bulk head, but boating there makes for a fun afternoon.

 Located at 25163 Overseas Highway (MM 25); Summerland Key, Florida 33042; 305-745-3322.

The Crab Shack

Update: March 2016 - It appears that The Crab Shack is closed. I have not stopped by, but when driving past I never see any cars in the parking lot and the lights are never on.

The Crab Shack, located on Summerland Key, is a real find. As a Marylander I was enormously happy to hear that a fellow crab lover from my home state had opened a restaurant in the Florida Keys. The menu, which is very straight forward and moderately priced, includes some appetizers, a yummy crab cake sandwich or a soft crab sandwich, four types of fish sandwiches, a meatball sub, Maryland crab soup, a couple of fish Po Boys, a steak sub, and a tasty cheeseburger done to perfection. Along with each sandwich came our choice of coleslaw, pasta salad, chips, egg or regular potato salad, macaroni shrimp salad or the veggie of the day, all available for eating-in or carry-out.

House specialties include steamed Maryland Blue Crabs, Steamed Shrimp, Beer Battered Fried Cod and one or two specialty desserts. They owner/chef is also willing to work with special eaters such as vegetarians or those with dietary restrictions.

Just opened in late 2011, the owner is friendly and anxious to please.  Right now there are less than 10 tables and no liquor liscense, but customers can bring their own libation. If you perfer a non-alcoholic beverage, there are bottled drinks or fountain sodas and brewed iced tea - all self-serve. While you're waiting for your food you can peruse the many and varied hot sauces and spreads that are available for purchase. I see that they are now opened for an all-you-can-eat breakfast.

The atmosphere is super casual and laid-back and a real gem as far as this writer is concerned.  The Crab Shack is located at 24580 Overseas Highway, Summerland Key, Florida, 33042; 305-745-2244; next to Murray's Food Mart.

Dove Creek Lodge

On our way down the Keys, we decided to stop in Key Largo for a couple of days. Ray had stayed in Ascend Hotels before while traveling on business and liked what he saw so he thought we should give Dove Creek Lodge a try. We were not disappointed. The place was absolutely lovely. It's an island style boutique hotel that is warm, friendly and uncomplicated. It is located oceanside and sits ajacent to John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park.

Some of the amenities include a complimentary continental breakfast, pool and hot tub (heated year-round), a small beach area for sunning, boat slips, free trailor parking, pool table, grills, Wi-Fi service, and covered parking. We had a well-designed two-room king suite, with lush bed linens and a screened-in porch.
Dove Creek Lodge, 147 Seaside Ave., Key Largo, Fl 33037; 800-401-0057; www.dovecreeklodge.com; Mile Marker 94.5 Oceanside.

Right next to the hotel, but not afflicated with it, is Snapper's Waterfront Resteraunt and Bar, They  offer a one-time 10% discount to Dove Creek Lodge guests. They have two outside bars and one inside bar as well as inside and outside dinning. While the food wasn't spectacular it was tasty indeed. On Sunday morning Snapper's has a champagne and jazz brunch. We didn't attend the brunch per se, but did enjoy the music while sitting on the beach at Dove Creek enjoying a cocktail or two out of our own cooler. www.snapperskeylargo.com

Dove Creek Lodge, 147 Seaside Ave., Key Largo, Fl 33037; 800-401-0057; www.dovecreeklodge.com; Mile Marker 94.5 Oceanside.