Pure pleasure for the palette, no-one will leave Key West without the memory of having dined deliciously at some of the world's top-class restaurants on dishes prepared by award-winning chefs. The choice is vast, from formal gourmet establishments to seaside cafes along Duval Street, the waterfront or tucked away in the old town. Fresh seafood predominates, along with tangy Florida citrus fruits and exotic Caribbean additives like plantains and black beans. There is also a marked Cuban influence on the Key West cuisine. The absolute delicacy of the island is the locally harvested pink shrimp, served up in every guise imaginable in a wide variety of establishments, from waterfront kiosks to five star restaurants. Also sought after is the famed dessert, Key Lime Pie, made from the pulp of tart local limes and topped with meringue. Square One restaurant in the old town is regarded as one of the most outstanding eateries on the island, while for more casual but no less tasty feasting the Half Shell Raw Bar in the historic seaport serves up its delights in baskets in a 'crab shack' setting.
