When COVID hit I decided I was going to go on a mission to find the best Crab Cake Benedict (CCB*) on the islands. I’ve tried countless at this point but the one at Hightide Cafe outshines them all in an almost embarrassing margin. In my humble, nonprofessional opinion of course. Always fresh crab patties with the perfect amount of flavor. They never miss with a perfectly poached egg atop before being smothered in homemade hollandaise sauce. I’m drooling now thinking about one.

There’s been few things in my life that never lose their first bite magic and this is certainly one of them. I’ve eaten enough CCBs from here to probably pay the chef’s salary for a year. My southern palate really enjoys this dish on a biscuit instead of a traditional English muffin; just ask!

Important to note that they don’t have a bad thing on the menu. Everything here is delicious and prepared with care. I can’t turn down an opportunity to have a CCB, but my family enjoys a variety of dishes here and there’s never anything left but crumbs!

This locally owned establishment also serves Pat’s famous muffins, and they’re a sure hit as a breakfast appetizer or dessert!

Doc’s is a family owned and operated restaurant located in the heart of Key Largo named after the famous Doc himself, a local optometrist whose office shares a building with the hand painted landmark.

Doc along with his family serve a plethora of breakfast options along with a full service lunch menu. You can find many regulars lined along the bar or hosting board meetings at one of the large tables in the back.

I’d never had corned beef hash until Doc forced me to try his one morning at a board meeting and I’ve been in love with it since. Their hash omelet with some hot sauce really sets itself apart and keeps you full for a day of adventure. I’m also a huge fan of the Flagler Skillet. If you’re looking for something more along the sweet side, their tropical pancakes or homemade cinnamon rolls are a must have.

*Also to note that the Bollini family serves Italian favorites once a week for lunch, and they are absolutely phenomenal. If you happen to see them open one evening (regularly closed at 2pm), they’re likely serving up some amazing Italian dish for a local nonprofit or school organization! Always worth the stop to see if they have extra!

Cafe Moka is a beautifully done French cafe located in Tavernier and Islamorada. My opinion is based on the Tavernier location since I’ve never been to its sister site. I’m lucky enough to claim this as my neighborhood cafe, so it’s too convenient to walk to!

First of all: vibes. The Tavernier location is perfectly nestled in the heart of the Tavernier historic district. The owners of the building painstakingly restored the church structure that the cafe calls home. While their infamous Nutella swirls can only be enjoyed on the weekends, there’s no shortage of choices on their everyday menu!

From too many coffee and matcha items to even begin to compare, just know it’s all good!

Every morning there’s a plethora of almond croissants and chocolate pastries being put out fresh from the oven at any given time. My favorite fresh start is their avocado toast. I especially crave this on hot summer days where I want something that will stick with me, but won’t weigh me down.

*Also worth noting that that make homemade French bread baguettes and there’s no wrong choice when it comes to their sandwiches!

Pinfish is located in the heart of Tavernier in the Tav Towne shopping center. You can find duckpin bowling (my favorite as I failed traditional bowling in college), axe throwing, arcade games and a fun, simple menu here!

If you’re in town for a while, check out their bowling leagues! I’ve played in a few and had a great time!

What’s also unique about Pinfish is they have a “drink wall”. Super cool and fun concept of opening a tab and using a bracelet to dispense your cold beverage from their many choices available.

*Special note is they are located in the same plaza as the Tavernier Cinema 5, and this makes for the PERFECT indoor day or date night!*

This theater is a true local gem that keeps us locals feeling somewhat connected to things hyped about on the mainland.

They occasionally serve hot foods like burgers and hotdogs along with their regular menu of popcorn and a variety of candy. While you might find a much better menu at one of the local owner’s other endeavors including Island Grill in Islamorada.

I’m always going to encourage you to go see a movie! I’m a bit of a cinema nerd myself, so any support to keep my neighborhood theater here for many years to come!

**Special note is they are located in the same plaza as my first recommendation, Pinfish!**

When the weather isn’t permitting you to partake in actual water activities, there is no better way to stay connected than to support one of our museums that specializes in why we are famously called the Dive Capital of the World.

With a vast collection of diving suits dating back to the earliest models, it’s really cool to see how far our technology has come. There is also a notable feature of diving helmets through the ages beautifully displayed.

You may even want to experience what it’s like to hold an actual silver bar inside of their treasure room featuring recovered treasures from many shipwrecks our reef has seen.

Be sure to enjoy the small aquarium this museum has as well! And before you leave, be sure to visit the gift shop that has a broader collection than most standard ones you see.