‘Tis the season to be jolly! It’s also the season to eat out with friends. Then there’s the fact that, if you are here in Key West or the Lower Keys on holiday, you may not have planned to create your own holiday dinner.

So, being a long time native and wanting to share what I believe to be the best spots in town with you … I’m not ranking these places, other than to say they are my personal favorites … Without further ado, presented here in alphabetical order, are my three favorite local eateries!

A & B Lobster House at 700 Front Street, Key West has amazing seafood and views! From their website: A&B Lobster House combines the best of Key West tradition with the latest in culinary innovation. Savor the elegant atmosphere and spectacular views of the Key West Bight, while enjoying our exceptional menu and large selection of boutique wines. Enjoy the finest steaks, locally caught seafood and lobsters from Maine and Florida, prepared with a delicate fusion of classic and contemporary styles by our renowned chefs. Dine outside on the wrap-around balcony or inside the timeless dining room, while our knowledgeable and attentive staff anticipates your every need and helps to make your experience unforgettable. After dinner, enjoy fine cognacs, dessert wines, cigars and unique martinis in Berlin's — a comfortable locals’ bar. Visit A&B Lobster House and experience the unique combination of elegant atmosphere, attentive service and inspired cuisine, which has made us a time-honored local tradition in Key West since 1947.

The Grand Cafe at 314 Duval Street, Key West is a great place for people-watching while you dine. From their website: The Grand Café is a warm and inviting family owned restaurant. Located in a breathtaking Victorian mansion, the Grand Café serves fine wines, perfect martinis and, of course, delicious seafood and meats. You are invited to spend a lazy afternoon having lunch in our garden, take your time with starlit meals on our wraparound porch and enjoy our newly renovated bar and lounge.

Michaels at 532 Margaret Street, Key West arguably has the best steaks on the island! From their web site: Treat yourself to a delicious dining experience outdoors in a relaxing Key West garden atmosphere or indoors in one of our two dining rooms. Michaels Restaurant, not Michael's Restaurant, is in Old Town Key West, near the corner of Southard Street- on Margaret Street. Zagat Survey 2011 said, “One of the best and most intimate places to dine in Key West is chef Michael Wilson’s high-end culinary gem of an American, where the steaks are superb, the desserts fabulous and the martinis to die for; further elevated by an outstanding staff (it’s rated No. 1 for Service in the Keys), a gorgeous garden and delectable fondue at the outdoor bar, it’s in a class by itself.”

So there you have them. My favorite places to dine out in Key West. Give them a try. Who knows? You just might find me at the table next to you!

Whether you’re a tourist, looking to move permanently to the Keys, or just someone who likes the beauty of nature, the great variety of amenities in the homes in our area are just more reasons to want to live in beautiful Key West.  If you’re interested in real estate in this attractive area contact me, Jimmy Lane, at Key West Real Estate:  305-766-0585.