Foodie's top picks in Marathon, Florida
Of course! Grab a cold drink, pull up a chair, and let me paint you a picture of the absolute best eats in Marathon. Forget the tourist traps and the generic chains; we’re diving deep into the heart and soul of the Middle Keys, one incredible meal at a time. As your local guide, I’m not just giving you a list; I’m taking you on a culinary tour. Get ready to taste the salt air, feel the warm breeze, and discover why we’re so proud of our little slice of paradise.
### **A Foodie’s Guide to Marathon, Florida: Ten Must-Visit Eateries**
Marathon isn’t just a dot on the map between Key Largo and Key West. It’s the vibrant, beating heart of the Florida Keys, a community built by fishermen, dreamers, and salt-of-the-earth folks who know that a great day starts and ends with a great meal. The dining scene here is a beautiful reflection of that spirit: fresh-from-the-boat seafood, quirky hidden gems, and waterfront views that’ll make you forget your phone exists. Here’s your insider’s guide to conquering it all.
---
#### **1. La Nina Restaurant: A Cuban Heartbeat on the Highway**
**Location:** 5101 Overseas Hwy
**Vibe:** Unassuming, authentic, family-run *cocina*. You don't come here for the waterfront views; you come for the soul-warming, explosive flavors that transport you straight to Havana. The aroma of slow-roasted pork, sautéed onions, and rich coffee hits you the moment you open the door. It’s a small, no-frills spot where the food does all the talking.
**What to Order:**
* **Must-Start:** The **Croquetas**. These are not your average frozen apps. Creamy, savory ham croquettes, perfectly fried with a crispy exterior that gives way to a smooth, molten center. Pair them with a *Café con Leche*—strong, sweet, and absolutely essential.
* **Main Event:** You are faced with a glorious dilemma. The **Ropa Vieja** is a masterpiece—shredded beef stewed in a rich tomato-based sauce with peppers and onions, so tender it literally means old clothes. Serve it with a side of sweet, fried plantains and their incredibly fluffy white rice and black beans (*moros y cristianos*).
* **The Power Move:** The **Cuban Sandwich**. This is the bar by which all others should be measured. Pressed to perfection on crisp, buttery bread with just the right ratio of roast pork, ham, Swiss cheese, pickles, and mustard. It’s simple, iconic, and flawless.
**Pro-Tip:** This is a cash-only establishment! Come prepared for a delicious, affordable feast that feels like a visit to your Cuban abuela’s kitchen.
---
#### **2. Barracuda Grill: The Hideaway with Gourmet Flair**
**Location:** 4290 Overseas Hwy (Mile Marker 49)
**Vibe:** Intimate, quirky, and chef-driven. Tucked away in a small strip mall, this place is a well-loved secret. The interior is cozy and eclectic, with a warm, buzzing energy. It feels like you’ve been let in on something special. Reservations are highly recommended—this isn’t a secret from the locals.
**What to Order:**
* **Must-Start:** The **Tuna Sashimi**. It’s a signature dish for a reason. Fresh, silky tuna served with a ginger-soy sauce, wasabi, and crispy wontons. It’s a perfect burst of clean, bright flavor.
* **Main Event:** This menu changes often based on the freshest catch, but if you see the **Macadamia Nut Crusted Mahi-Mahi**, order it without hesitation. The sweet, buttery crunch of the nuts pairs magically with the firm, flaky fish, often served with a tropical fruit salsa and a side of ginger-lime butter. It’s Keys fine dining at its absolute best.
* **Don't Miss:** Their specials board is the real star. Always ask what’s new and fresh. You might find a incredible lobster pasta or a unique catch of the day preparation you won't find anywhere else.
**Pro-Tip:** Bring your own wine! It's a BYOB establishment, so stop by a local shop, grab a nice bottle of white to pair with your seafood, and enjoy without the markup.
---
#### **3. Marathon Grill and Ale House: The Lively Local Hub**
**Location:** 5800 Overseas Hwy #12
**Vibe:** Casual, sports-friendly, and energetic. This is where locals gather to watch the game, catch up with friends, and enjoy solid, satisfying American classics. It’s got a great bar, plenty of TVs, and a welcoming, unpretentious atmosphere. Think of it as the Keys' version of your favorite neighborhood pub.
**What to Order:**
* **Must-Start:** The **Crab Cake Sliders**. They are mostly lump crab meat with very little filler, pan-seared until golden brown, and served on mini buns with a tangy remoulade. The perfect shareable bite.
* **Main Event:** The **Ale House Burger**. A half-pound of juicy beef cooked to order, topped with your choice of cheeses, Applewood smoked bacon, and all the fixings. It’s a classic done right, and it’s fantastic with one of their many cold beers on tap.
* **For the Table:** Their **Cajun Boil Bucket** is a fun, messy, shareable feast of shrimp, clams, sausage, corn, and potatoes, all boiled in a spicy Cajun broth and dumped right on the table (on paper, of course!). It’s an experience.
**Pro-Tip:** Check their daily specials. They often have great deals on wings and local drafts, making it the perfect spot for a budget-friendly yet fantastic meal.
---
#### **4. Cracked Conch Cafe: A Keys Institution**
**Location:** 4999 Overseas Hwy
**Vibe:** Quintessential Florida Keys. It’s a relaxed, open-air restaurant that feels both beachy and established. You’ll see a mix of tourists who read about it and locals who have been coming for decades. The thatched roof and tropical decor set the mood perfectly.
**What to Order:**
* **Must-Start:** Well, it’s in the name! You absolutely must try the **Cracked Conch**. Tenderized conch steak, breaded, and fried to a perfect golden brown. It’s served with a key lime mustard sauce that is tangy, creamy, and the ideal complement. It’s the definitive Keys appetizer.
* **Main Event:** The **Yellowtail Snapper**. You can get it grilled, blackened, or fried, but go for **Française**-style if it's available. Lightly battered and sautéed in a lemon-butter-white wine sauce, it lets the sweet, delicate flavor of the fresh snapper shine.
* **Sweet Finish:** Their **Key Lime Pie** is a top contender in the Keys. Tart, creamy, and not overly sweet, with a graham cracker crust that has just the right amount of crunch.
**Pro-Tip:** Sit outside on the lanai for the full tropical experience. The indoor dining is nice, but the outdoor vibe is what the Keys are all about.
---
#### **5. Florida Keys Steak and Lobster House: Classic Upscale Comfort**
**Location:** 3660 Overseas Hwy
**Vibe:** Traditional, comfortable, and dimly-lit—a classic steakhouse feel with a distinct Keys twist. It’s the place you go for a nice dinner out, a anniversary, or when you just really need a perfect filet mignon. The service is attentive and professional.
**What to Order:**
* **Must-Start:** The **Lobster Bisque**. It’s rich, creamy, and packed with sweet lobster flavor. A decadent way to start your meal.
* **Main Event:** This is the place for surf & turf perfection. The **Filet Mignon** is melt-in-your-mouth tender, cooked to a perfect temperature. Pair it with a **Cold Water Lobster Tail**—steamed and drawn butter. It’s an indulgence, but oh, is it worth it.
* **The Signature:** Their **Prime Rib** is legendary. A slow-roasted, juicy, flavorful cut that’s available in multiple sizes. It’s the kind of hearty, satisfying meal that reminds you why classic dishes become classics.
**Pro-Tip:** This is one of the more upscale spots on the list. It’s perfect for a special occasion. While dress is always casual in the Keys, you might feel more comfortable in something a step above your beachwear.
---
#### **6. Takara Thai House: An Explosion of Southeast Asian Flavors**
**Location:** 3740 Overseas Hwy
**Vibe:** A surprising and welcome cultural detour. The interior is simple and clean, but the focus is entirely on the vibrant, aromatic food coming from the kitchen. It’s a fantastic option for when you need a break from seafood (or just want to eat incredible Thai food).
**What to Order:**
* **Must-Start:** The **Fresh Summer Rolls**. Packed with shrimp, vermicelli noodles, mint, and lettuce, they are light, refreshing, and served with a perfectly balanced peanut dipping sauce.
* **Main Event:** You can't go wrong with **Drunken Noodles (Pad Kee Mao)**. Wide, chewy rice noodles stir-fried with basil, vegetables, and your choice of protein in a spicy, savory sauce. Ask for it Thai hot if you dare, but be warned—they mean it!
* **Curry Lover's Pick:** The **Panang Curry**. Creamy, slightly sweet, and nutty with a gentle heat. The complex flavor profile is incredible spooned over a side of jasmine rice.
**Pro-Tip:** They also have a full sushi bar! The **Spicy Tuna Roll** or a **Rainbow Roll** are excellent choices if you’re in the mood for something raw and fresh.
---
#### **7. Hideaway Cafe: A Romantic Culinary Gem**
**Location:** 57784 Overseas Hwy
**Vibe:** Intimate, romantic, and truly a hideaway. This is arguably Marathon's finest dining experience. It’s a small, elegantly casual restaurant where the chef’s creative, ever-changing menu is the star. The atmosphere is quiet and perfect for a special date night.
**What to Order:**
* **The Strategy:** The menu changes frequently based on what's freshest, so go with an open mind and trust the chef. You can't make a bad choice.
* **Likely Finds:** You might find exquisite dishes like **Seared Scallops** with a corn puree and pancetta, or a perfectly cooked **Duck Breast** with a cherry reduction. Their pasta dishes, often made in-house, are also sublime.
* **Don't Skip:** The dessert. Whatever pastry chef has created that day will be the perfect finale. A chocolate torte, a berry crème brûlée—it will be memorable.
**Pro-Tip:** **RESERVATIONS ARE NON-NEGOTIABLE.** This place is tiny and incredibly popular. Book well in advance for a chance to experience this culinary treasure.
---
#### **8. Dockside Boot Key Harbor: Waterfront Perfection**
**Location:** 35 Sombrero Blvd
**Vibe:** Pure, unadulterated Florida Keys waterfront dining. Plastic chairs on a deck overlooking the boats in Boot Key Harbor. The sunsets here are spectacular. It’s casual, a little funky, and the epitome of the laid-back marina lifestyle.
**What to Order:**
* **Must-Start:** A basket of **Conch Fritters**. Light, fluffy, and packed with chunks of conch, served with a kicky cocktail sauce. Eaten with a view of the water, it’s heaven.
* **Main Event:** The **Grouper Reuben**. A brilliant Keys twist on a classic sandwich. Blackened grouper fillet replaces the corned beef, topped with Swiss cheese, sauerkraut, and Thousand Island dressing on grilled rye. It’s a must-try unique dish.
* **The Classic:** Their **Fish Tacos** are fantastic. Beer-battered mahi or grouper, shredded cabbage, pico de gallo, and a creamy chipotle sauce in a soft flour tortilla.
**Pro-Tip:** Come for a late lunch or early dinner and time it with sunset. Grab a Rum Runner from the bar, snag a table on the deck, and watch the sky put on a show.
---
#### **9. Herbie’s Bar & Chowder House: A Lively Marathon Legacy**
**Location:** 6350 Overseas Hwy
**Vibe:** A loud, proud, local dive bar that serves seriously good food. It’s dark, cool, and covered in dollar bills and fishing memorabilia. The energy is high, the drinks are strong, and everyone is there to have a good time. Don’t be fooled by the dive label—the kitchen is legendary.
**What to Order:**
* **Must-Start:** It’s called the Chowder House for a reason. The **Conch Chowder** is thick, rich, tomato-based, and loaded with tender conch. It’s a meal in itself.
* **Main Event:** The **Fried Shrimp Basket**. These are some of the plumpest, sweetest, most perfectly fried shrimp in the Keys. Served with fries and slaw, it’s the ultimate bar food elevated to an art form.
* **Local Favorite:** The **Sirloin Burger**. A juicy, no-nonsense burger that has been a favorite for generations. It’s simple, messy, and delicious.
**Pro-Tip:** This is a cash-only spot. Come for the food, stay for the atmosphere, and enjoy a true piece of Marathon history.
---
#### **10. Burdines Waterfront: Fries with a Side of Paradise**
**Location:** 1200 Ocean View Ave
**Vibe:** The ultimate casual, family-friendly, toes-in-the-sand waterfront experience. Located up a ramp next to a marina, the views of the Gulf are breathtaking. It’s a order-at-the-counter joint with picnic tables on a large deck. The vibe is pure, happy, Keys relaxation.
**What to Order:**
* **The Icon:** The **French Fries**. Seriously. They are famous for them—fresh-cut, perfectly seasoned, and fried to a glorious golden brown. Get a massive cone to share.
* **Main Event:** The **Mahi Mahi Sandwich**. Grilled or fried, this fresh local catch is served on a bun with lettuce, tomato, and their signature Burdine's Sauce. Eat it with those famous fries while looking out at the water. It doesn’t get much better.
* **Thirst Quencher:** They have a great tiki bar. A **Rum Runner** or a **Key Lime Colada** is the mandatory beverage here.
**Pro-Tip:** Don't use your GPS to find the restaurant itself. Look for the Burdines Marine store on the Overseas Highway. The restaurant is located upstairs, behind it. Parking can be tight, but it's worth the hunt.
---
So there you have it, friends. Ten incredible reasons to explore Marathon far beyond the beach. Each of these spots offers a unique taste of our community, from the authentic flavors of Cuba to the freshest grouper eaten with your feet dangling over the water. Come hungry, leave happy, and taste the true flavor of the Middle Keys.
Now, if you'll excuse me, all this talking about food has made me hungry. I think I'm headed for some cracked conch
### **A Foodie’s Guide to Marathon, Florida: Ten Must-Visit Eateries**
Marathon isn’t just a dot on the map between Key Largo and Key West. It’s the vibrant, beating heart of the Florida Keys, a community built by fishermen, dreamers, and salt-of-the-earth folks who know that a great day starts and ends with a great meal. The dining scene here is a beautiful reflection of that spirit: fresh-from-the-boat seafood, quirky hidden gems, and waterfront views that’ll make you forget your phone exists. Here’s your insider’s guide to conquering it all.
---
#### **1. La Nina Restaurant: A Cuban Heartbeat on the Highway**
**Location:** 5101 Overseas Hwy
**Vibe:** Unassuming, authentic, family-run *cocina*. You don't come here for the waterfront views; you come for the soul-warming, explosive flavors that transport you straight to Havana. The aroma of slow-roasted pork, sautéed onions, and rich coffee hits you the moment you open the door. It’s a small, no-frills spot where the food does all the talking.
**What to Order:**
* **Must-Start:** The **Croquetas**. These are not your average frozen apps. Creamy, savory ham croquettes, perfectly fried with a crispy exterior that gives way to a smooth, molten center. Pair them with a *Café con Leche*—strong, sweet, and absolutely essential.
* **Main Event:** You are faced with a glorious dilemma. The **Ropa Vieja** is a masterpiece—shredded beef stewed in a rich tomato-based sauce with peppers and onions, so tender it literally means old clothes. Serve it with a side of sweet, fried plantains and their incredibly fluffy white rice and black beans (*moros y cristianos*).
* **The Power Move:** The **Cuban Sandwich**. This is the bar by which all others should be measured. Pressed to perfection on crisp, buttery bread with just the right ratio of roast pork, ham, Swiss cheese, pickles, and mustard. It’s simple, iconic, and flawless.
**Pro-Tip:** This is a cash-only establishment! Come prepared for a delicious, affordable feast that feels like a visit to your Cuban abuela’s kitchen.
---
#### **2. Barracuda Grill: The Hideaway with Gourmet Flair**
**Location:** 4290 Overseas Hwy (Mile Marker 49)
**Vibe:** Intimate, quirky, and chef-driven. Tucked away in a small strip mall, this place is a well-loved secret. The interior is cozy and eclectic, with a warm, buzzing energy. It feels like you’ve been let in on something special. Reservations are highly recommended—this isn’t a secret from the locals.
**What to Order:**
* **Must-Start:** The **Tuna Sashimi**. It’s a signature dish for a reason. Fresh, silky tuna served with a ginger-soy sauce, wasabi, and crispy wontons. It’s a perfect burst of clean, bright flavor.
* **Main Event:** This menu changes often based on the freshest catch, but if you see the **Macadamia Nut Crusted Mahi-Mahi**, order it without hesitation. The sweet, buttery crunch of the nuts pairs magically with the firm, flaky fish, often served with a tropical fruit salsa and a side of ginger-lime butter. It’s Keys fine dining at its absolute best.
* **Don't Miss:** Their specials board is the real star. Always ask what’s new and fresh. You might find a incredible lobster pasta or a unique catch of the day preparation you won't find anywhere else.
**Pro-Tip:** Bring your own wine! It's a BYOB establishment, so stop by a local shop, grab a nice bottle of white to pair with your seafood, and enjoy without the markup.
---
#### **3. Marathon Grill and Ale House: The Lively Local Hub**
**Location:** 5800 Overseas Hwy #12
**Vibe:** Casual, sports-friendly, and energetic. This is where locals gather to watch the game, catch up with friends, and enjoy solid, satisfying American classics. It’s got a great bar, plenty of TVs, and a welcoming, unpretentious atmosphere. Think of it as the Keys' version of your favorite neighborhood pub.
**What to Order:**
* **Must-Start:** The **Crab Cake Sliders**. They are mostly lump crab meat with very little filler, pan-seared until golden brown, and served on mini buns with a tangy remoulade. The perfect shareable bite.
* **Main Event:** The **Ale House Burger**. A half-pound of juicy beef cooked to order, topped with your choice of cheeses, Applewood smoked bacon, and all the fixings. It’s a classic done right, and it’s fantastic with one of their many cold beers on tap.
* **For the Table:** Their **Cajun Boil Bucket** is a fun, messy, shareable feast of shrimp, clams, sausage, corn, and potatoes, all boiled in a spicy Cajun broth and dumped right on the table (on paper, of course!). It’s an experience.
**Pro-Tip:** Check their daily specials. They often have great deals on wings and local drafts, making it the perfect spot for a budget-friendly yet fantastic meal.
---
#### **4. Cracked Conch Cafe: A Keys Institution**
**Location:** 4999 Overseas Hwy
**Vibe:** Quintessential Florida Keys. It’s a relaxed, open-air restaurant that feels both beachy and established. You’ll see a mix of tourists who read about it and locals who have been coming for decades. The thatched roof and tropical decor set the mood perfectly.
**What to Order:**
* **Must-Start:** Well, it’s in the name! You absolutely must try the **Cracked Conch**. Tenderized conch steak, breaded, and fried to a perfect golden brown. It’s served with a key lime mustard sauce that is tangy, creamy, and the ideal complement. It’s the definitive Keys appetizer.
* **Main Event:** The **Yellowtail Snapper**. You can get it grilled, blackened, or fried, but go for **Française**-style if it's available. Lightly battered and sautéed in a lemon-butter-white wine sauce, it lets the sweet, delicate flavor of the fresh snapper shine.
* **Sweet Finish:** Their **Key Lime Pie** is a top contender in the Keys. Tart, creamy, and not overly sweet, with a graham cracker crust that has just the right amount of crunch.
**Pro-Tip:** Sit outside on the lanai for the full tropical experience. The indoor dining is nice, but the outdoor vibe is what the Keys are all about.
---
#### **5. Florida Keys Steak and Lobster House: Classic Upscale Comfort**
**Location:** 3660 Overseas Hwy
**Vibe:** Traditional, comfortable, and dimly-lit—a classic steakhouse feel with a distinct Keys twist. It’s the place you go for a nice dinner out, a anniversary, or when you just really need a perfect filet mignon. The service is attentive and professional.
**What to Order:**
* **Must-Start:** The **Lobster Bisque**. It’s rich, creamy, and packed with sweet lobster flavor. A decadent way to start your meal.
* **Main Event:** This is the place for surf & turf perfection. The **Filet Mignon** is melt-in-your-mouth tender, cooked to a perfect temperature. Pair it with a **Cold Water Lobster Tail**—steamed and drawn butter. It’s an indulgence, but oh, is it worth it.
* **The Signature:** Their **Prime Rib** is legendary. A slow-roasted, juicy, flavorful cut that’s available in multiple sizes. It’s the kind of hearty, satisfying meal that reminds you why classic dishes become classics.
**Pro-Tip:** This is one of the more upscale spots on the list. It’s perfect for a special occasion. While dress is always casual in the Keys, you might feel more comfortable in something a step above your beachwear.
---
#### **6. Takara Thai House: An Explosion of Southeast Asian Flavors**
**Location:** 3740 Overseas Hwy
**Vibe:** A surprising and welcome cultural detour. The interior is simple and clean, but the focus is entirely on the vibrant, aromatic food coming from the kitchen. It’s a fantastic option for when you need a break from seafood (or just want to eat incredible Thai food).
**What to Order:**
* **Must-Start:** The **Fresh Summer Rolls**. Packed with shrimp, vermicelli noodles, mint, and lettuce, they are light, refreshing, and served with a perfectly balanced peanut dipping sauce.
* **Main Event:** You can't go wrong with **Drunken Noodles (Pad Kee Mao)**. Wide, chewy rice noodles stir-fried with basil, vegetables, and your choice of protein in a spicy, savory sauce. Ask for it Thai hot if you dare, but be warned—they mean it!
* **Curry Lover's Pick:** The **Panang Curry**. Creamy, slightly sweet, and nutty with a gentle heat. The complex flavor profile is incredible spooned over a side of jasmine rice.
**Pro-Tip:** They also have a full sushi bar! The **Spicy Tuna Roll** or a **Rainbow Roll** are excellent choices if you’re in the mood for something raw and fresh.
---
#### **7. Hideaway Cafe: A Romantic Culinary Gem**
**Location:** 57784 Overseas Hwy
**Vibe:** Intimate, romantic, and truly a hideaway. This is arguably Marathon's finest dining experience. It’s a small, elegantly casual restaurant where the chef’s creative, ever-changing menu is the star. The atmosphere is quiet and perfect for a special date night.
**What to Order:**
* **The Strategy:** The menu changes frequently based on what's freshest, so go with an open mind and trust the chef. You can't make a bad choice.
* **Likely Finds:** You might find exquisite dishes like **Seared Scallops** with a corn puree and pancetta, or a perfectly cooked **Duck Breast** with a cherry reduction. Their pasta dishes, often made in-house, are also sublime.
* **Don't Skip:** The dessert. Whatever pastry chef has created that day will be the perfect finale. A chocolate torte, a berry crème brûlée—it will be memorable.
**Pro-Tip:** **RESERVATIONS ARE NON-NEGOTIABLE.** This place is tiny and incredibly popular. Book well in advance for a chance to experience this culinary treasure.
---
#### **8. Dockside Boot Key Harbor: Waterfront Perfection**
**Location:** 35 Sombrero Blvd
**Vibe:** Pure, unadulterated Florida Keys waterfront dining. Plastic chairs on a deck overlooking the boats in Boot Key Harbor. The sunsets here are spectacular. It’s casual, a little funky, and the epitome of the laid-back marina lifestyle.
**What to Order:**
* **Must-Start:** A basket of **Conch Fritters**. Light, fluffy, and packed with chunks of conch, served with a kicky cocktail sauce. Eaten with a view of the water, it’s heaven.
* **Main Event:** The **Grouper Reuben**. A brilliant Keys twist on a classic sandwich. Blackened grouper fillet replaces the corned beef, topped with Swiss cheese, sauerkraut, and Thousand Island dressing on grilled rye. It’s a must-try unique dish.
* **The Classic:** Their **Fish Tacos** are fantastic. Beer-battered mahi or grouper, shredded cabbage, pico de gallo, and a creamy chipotle sauce in a soft flour tortilla.
**Pro-Tip:** Come for a late lunch or early dinner and time it with sunset. Grab a Rum Runner from the bar, snag a table on the deck, and watch the sky put on a show.
---
#### **9. Herbie’s Bar & Chowder House: A Lively Marathon Legacy**
**Location:** 6350 Overseas Hwy
**Vibe:** A loud, proud, local dive bar that serves seriously good food. It’s dark, cool, and covered in dollar bills and fishing memorabilia. The energy is high, the drinks are strong, and everyone is there to have a good time. Don’t be fooled by the dive label—the kitchen is legendary.
**What to Order:**
* **Must-Start:** It’s called the Chowder House for a reason. The **Conch Chowder** is thick, rich, tomato-based, and loaded with tender conch. It’s a meal in itself.
* **Main Event:** The **Fried Shrimp Basket**. These are some of the plumpest, sweetest, most perfectly fried shrimp in the Keys. Served with fries and slaw, it’s the ultimate bar food elevated to an art form.
* **Local Favorite:** The **Sirloin Burger**. A juicy, no-nonsense burger that has been a favorite for generations. It’s simple, messy, and delicious.
**Pro-Tip:** This is a cash-only spot. Come for the food, stay for the atmosphere, and enjoy a true piece of Marathon history.
---
#### **10. Burdines Waterfront: Fries with a Side of Paradise**
**Location:** 1200 Ocean View Ave
**Vibe:** The ultimate casual, family-friendly, toes-in-the-sand waterfront experience. Located up a ramp next to a marina, the views of the Gulf are breathtaking. It’s a order-at-the-counter joint with picnic tables on a large deck. The vibe is pure, happy, Keys relaxation.
**What to Order:**
* **The Icon:** The **French Fries**. Seriously. They are famous for them—fresh-cut, perfectly seasoned, and fried to a glorious golden brown. Get a massive cone to share.
* **Main Event:** The **Mahi Mahi Sandwich**. Grilled or fried, this fresh local catch is served on a bun with lettuce, tomato, and their signature Burdine's Sauce. Eat it with those famous fries while looking out at the water. It doesn’t get much better.
* **Thirst Quencher:** They have a great tiki bar. A **Rum Runner** or a **Key Lime Colada** is the mandatory beverage here.
**Pro-Tip:** Don't use your GPS to find the restaurant itself. Look for the Burdines Marine store on the Overseas Highway. The restaurant is located upstairs, behind it. Parking can be tight, but it's worth the hunt.
---
So there you have it, friends. Ten incredible reasons to explore Marathon far beyond the beach. Each of these spots offers a unique taste of our community, from the authentic flavors of Cuba to the freshest grouper eaten with your feet dangling over the water. Come hungry, leave happy, and taste the true flavor of the Middle Keys.
Now, if you'll excuse me, all this talking about food has made me hungry. I think I'm headed for some cracked conch
Comments
Post a Comment