Leisure

Get Out of Dodge

Five Things to Do Down in the Keys

The Keys. It’s not like you <em>need</em> a reason to go. But if you’re looking for an excuse to burn through a couple of days in paradise, well, here’re five that are as good as any. Bring us back something nice...

THE TIP-OFF

Humphrey Bogart Film Festival

Why you’re there: It’s four days dedicated to the best of Bogie. It’s seeing Key Largo in Key Largo.
What you’re having: A memorable screening of Casablanca under the stars. A sail aboard a boat called the African Queen. An aneurysm every time somebody misquotes the line “Play it, Sam.”
Hashtags: #filmnoir #fedoras #gindrinkingmovies

THE HALFWAY POINT

Meat Eatery and Taproom

Why you’re there: Because you’re 50% of the way to Key West proper. And that sort of feat deserves a burger.
What you’re having: A house-ground bacon burger, duck-fat fries and a milkshake that’s spiked with beer.
Hashtags: #doubledipping #heresthebeef #extremelycoldones

THE DINNER WITH A VIEW

Ocean at Hawks Cay

Why you’re there: Hawks Cay has a new Mediterranean spot called Ocean. It’s got pizzetas. It’s got sangria. It’s got fire pits. It’s got the Atlantic an arm’s length away.
What you’re having: A moonlit round of caprese martinis. That’s mozzarella, tomato, basil, cucumber and... vodka. Of course vodka.
Hashtags: #stargazing #playingwithfirepits #drinkablesalads

THE OBLIGATORY KEY LIME PIE

Kaya Island Eats

Why you’re there: For the best damn slice of key lime pie in the world.
What you’re having: The best damn slice of key lime pie in the world. It’s prepared by a former Blue Heaven chef and it’s topped with homemade meringue. None of this whipped cream nonsense.
Hashtags: #tart #sweet #haveasecondslice

THE FAREWELL BRUNCH

The Dining Room at Little Palm Island

Why you’re there: A bottomless brunch on an island that’s only accessible by boat.
What you’re having: A DIY Bloody Mary that never ends. A french toast that’s topped with fresh guava sauce. And a bunch of deer hungrily eyeing your food. Stay vigilant.
Hashtags: #thristquenching #outdoorbrunching #jealousdeer