Times have indeed changed for sailors these days, Jimmy. Today, the menus of Key West, Florida, restaurants are nothing like those found at Holiday Inns; they are, in fact, loaded with tasty treats. While lobster, stone crab, and great seafood in Key West are the typical go-tos, sometimes nothing but a great burger will suffice.
So, if you’re craving a big chunk of beef, here’s your guide to getting the best burgers in Key West.
Countdown: The 6 Best Burgers Key West Offers
Jimmy liked his burgers a particular way, and I imagine you do too. Everyone has an opinion about their burger. You might be all about the lettuce, tomato, and classic condiments. Or you might shuck tradition and go bold: blue cheese, barbecue, mushrooms? Dear God.
Well, no matter your burger-tarian leanings, Key West is one island that’s got you covered. We’ve got burgers here you didn’t even know existed, and once you try them, you’ll just have to go back to Ohio and leave these amazing patties to us locals. Mu-ha-ha!
Before you ask, no, we do not make our Key West burgers from sea cows. Leave the poor manatees alone already.
Moondog Cafe
823 Whitehead Street
Moondog is an excellent option if you’re craving a big chunk of beef, and also if you’re feeling a little bit non-traditional. Their burgers are all half-pound gourmet creations, served on fresh brioche buns with potato chips. Upgrade to the truffle fries? Why yes, I think you should.
There are seven different variations of the classic burger on the menu, plus a veggie burger if you’re so inclined. The classic is the Moondog, but then there’s the Johnny Cash with a blackened patty, grilled onions and peppers, and sriracha mayo. Or the Frenchman with brie, or the John Wayne, a take on the barbeque burger. Choices, choices.
The bonus of the Moondog Cafe is the baked goods — outta this world, man. There is usually a line here for a reason.
Blackfin Bistro
918 Duval Street
Perhaps you’re looking for a more upscale experience, one that features a wine list longer than the burger menu. You’ll want to head to the Blackfin Bistro for that, and then you’ll want to try the Wagyu burger with “shallot marmalade, smoked gouda fondue, truffle fries.” You may want to accompany that with the tempura green beans on the side, just to be sure you’re doing it right. If that doesn’t ring your bell, there are four other burgers and a tuna burger that might tempt you.
This spot has a very cool back patio with a tropical courtyard feeling.
Square Grouper
920 Caroline Street
Square Grouper is a newer spot in Key West that’s catching on fast. Like a lot of these locals’ spots, there’s more seafood on the menu than burgers. I mean, did you look out the window as you drove down here? See many cow pastures? But I digress, the point I’m trying to make is that, despite the obvious seafood-forward menu, the Square Grouper exceeds with its single burger offering. It’s cleverly called The House Burger, and it consists of an eight-ounce chargrilled Angus patty, onion rings, bacon jam, and, well, I don’t need to progress any farther than the bacon jam, do I? It’s bacon. And jam. In one.
If you’re interested in the Square Grouper Sandwich instead, you should know in advance that it’s named incorrectly on the menu. You will receive fish on a bun, and not a real square grouper.
Fritas Cuban Burger Cafe
425 Southard Street
So, this is a bit of a treat that you won’t find back home (unless you happen to be visiting from Cuba, in which case, bienvenidos!) The Frita is a Cuban street food burger consisting of a ground beef and pork patty full of lovely Spanish spices. It’s got a special spicy sauce and crunchy fried potatoes on a crispy Cuban bread roll. It’s pretty amazing, and it’s certainly not your everyday burger experience.
On your Frita, you might want to add on manchego cheese, and maybe even a caballo, or fried egg. There’s also the Frita Confundita (confused), which adds toppings like onions, mojo pork, and Caribbean slaw. But that’s not all! There are more choices, including the Gaucho with chimichurri and El Fuego with Birria short rib, roast beef, and spicy hot Frita sauce. Yum.
If you’re so inclined, they have veg burger options, too. The menu also features some excellent tacos, and the beans and rice are well worth it.
The Docks Stock Island
6840 Front Street
Have you ever noticed that seafood places always have a great burger? They know that many folks don’t eat seafood, and they want everyone to leave happy and have a great meal. Such is the case over at The Docks on Stock Island, where the burger is good and the fries are great. It’s a simple cheeseburger served with white cheddar and pancetta. Oh, so maybe not really that simple. But tasty!
Four Marlins at The Reach
1435 Simonton Street
The Reach is one of the Best Key West Resorts and also a great place to eat on the water. Located on the south end of Old Town, the place has its own beach facing the Atlantic. The restaurant, Four Marlins, is oceanfront dining at its best. And what’s better than a burger with a good view?
Burgers are only on the lunch menu at the Four Marlins. It’s a classic recipe with Angus beef and cheddar, but there’s a “secret sauce” involved. And you get to pick your side, which could be a salad if you like. Or it could be fries, because that goes better with burgers. Seriously, a salad?
