Knowing where to celebrate a special occasion (whether it be a birthday, anniversary, promotion, or other major life event) in a place you’re unfamiliar with can be daunting. If you’re heading down to Key West, or here already, and need to make reservations for the special night, turn to our list of the best places to make your night memorable no matter what your age, price range, or preference! Enjoy, and congrats!
Café Marquesa
Cafe Marquesa’s intimate 50-seat cafe romances its guests by candlelight. Photo // marquesa.com
If intimate settings tickle your special-occasion fancy, then Café Marquesa is the place for you. Dimly lit by candlelight, this 50-seat Flemming Street gem has a seasonal menu with fusion flair. You’re guaranteed to be wowed by the consistently award-winning chefs and kitchen theatre that you can catch glimpses of behind a hand-painted trompe l’oeil wall. Freshly baked bread and killer wine list are the cherries on top of the impeccable dining experience they curate every evening.
Latitudes
A boat ride brings you to Latitudes to enjoy dining seaside. Photo // keywestexpress.net
It’s not everyday you get to take a boat to your dinner reservation, but here in Key West, if you happen to be celebrating at Latitudes, that is exactly what you’ll be doing. The fine dining menu at the Westin beachfront property is as exquisite as the view. Sunset colors bleeding into the ocean can be the most memorable and romantic time of day, but every meal served on the white tablecloths under the palm trees is a winner. Reservations necessary.
Azur
Enjoy Mediterranean fare al fresco beside Azur’s waterfall. Photo // Edenhouse.com
As OpenTable’s 2016 Diner’s Choice Winner, Azur sets the stage for a memorable celebration. Whether dining al fresco beside their waterfall or in their newly renovated dining room, the Mediterranean-influenced menu oozes with intrigue. Tantalizing flavor concoctions and pairings seen in their “mezza” menu of amuse-bouches and desserts with such items as octopus salad, walnut-filled eggplant, rosemary pecan tart with cardamon ice cream, and a lavender crème brule delight even the most discerning palates.
Prime Steakhouse
For the best prime cut steaks in Key West, head to Prime. Photo // Tripadvisor.com
Significant others who double as red meat lovers will fall deeper in love with the special someone who takes them to Prime. The choice location for excellent beef cuts and impeccable service, Prime delivers on all fronts. They boast of 1000 degree ovens, locally caught seafood, and starters that locals rave about which include Jumbo lump crab cakes, carpaccio of filet mignon, and garlicky escargot. Don’t forget the Truffled Mac and Cheese, Prime’s signature side.
Tavern N Town
Tavern N Town hits all the fine dining buttons with their luxe lounge and menu. Photo // thecelebrationsociety.com
Though you might not expect one of Key West’s favorite places to celebrate to be connected to a hotel lobby, Tavern N Town offers the island all the pleasures and comforts one hopes to receive while fine dining. While mixing lush atmosphere with flatscreens to watch the game on, guests can also sit directly in front of the Tapas Theater Kitchen, where you can instead watch the brilliant chefs embellish international favorites with the unique flavors of Old Key West. They have both tapas and entrees big enough to split. Local? Be seated by 6:30 and everything on the menu is $19.99, and you get a free meal on your birthday!
Nine One Five
Charming dining in an old Victorian home right on Duval St. Photo // coolkeywest.com
Coined as “the best date night on Duval St,” Nine One Five sets the stage with twinkling lights draped along the upper and lower outdoor porches of a 100-year-old Victorian home making it both enchanting and whimsical. Dine outdoors and people-watch along upper Duval, or sit at a table inside while listening to light jazz. The setting may be historic but the menu is completely modern. They offer fantastic dishes to enjoy alone or to share and an impressive selection of wines by the glass.
Waterfront Brewing
Head to Waterfront for the best family-friendly spot around. Photo // blogstop.com
If you’re a kid, or kid at heart, this local brewery will be right up your skeeball alley! A family friendly place, Waterfront Brewery has got something for all ages. Come celebrate right on the docks with not only tasting flights of their impressive beer list, but a full bar. Pair drinks with a “pleaser” menu full of fun options such as fried pretzel loaves with beer-cheese dipping sauce, mixed seafood ceviche with tortilla chips, delicious fish dip, and winner dinners. Top it all off with a stocked game room that can keep players occupied for hours and bi-weekly tours of “behind the scene brewing” to educate the interested and you have yourself the perfect low-key celebration.
