If all of Key West tasted like this, we’d gladly pay those tropical tourist prices. This island has pastel houses, sunset celebrations, roosters roaming free—and then there are the taquerias. From fiery al pastor served in colorful courtyards to fresh ceviche spots where you can watch the boats drift by, these ten places prove the Keys do Mexican with more beachside charm than anywhere in Florida.
Tongo’s Mexican Food
$ | (786) 820-1438 | WEBSITE
Calling all fans of authentic Mexican cuisine and spicy salsa, we’d like you to meet Key West’s own little slice of Mexican culinary delight, Tongo’s Mexican Food. It’s a straightforward Mexican eatery complete with vibrant colors, the aroma of fresh pastor, and a menu featuring some standout specialties. The friendly service and generous portions only add to the appeal but don’t expect fancy dining prices—the mains will set you back around $12-$15.
If you can’t find parking, Tongo’s delivery option is just a phone call away.
Key West Cuban Coffee
$ | (305) 440-2452 | WEBSITE
Alongside the classic Cuban sandwich, Key West Cuban Coffee is what authentic Mexican-Cuban fusion is to Key West dining. You can find the vibrant, colorful eatery on Duval Street with its Cuban music and local artwork. But it’s the original location we find ourselves most drawn to. Brightly painted walls, cheerful staff, steaming cafe con leche, and everyone’s greeted like family by owner Caroline.
The seating may be limited but the atmosphere is wonderfully welcoming, especially alongside plates of homemade chorizo burritos. With the right drizzle of verde sauce this is food that can be happily devoured.
Jose’s Key West Latin Restaurant
$$ | (305) 304-6838 | WEBSITE
One of Key West’s most consistently lovely Latin spots, Jose’s Key West Latin Restaurant also happens to do amazing Mexican classics too. A meal here is a guaranteed good time, and perfect for any situation where savoring, sharing, and enjoying something of the homemade variety is in order.
The menu is a delightful rotation of tacos, burritos, and hearty grilled dishes, but you can always count on the Palomilla Bistec with sautéed onions or the tangy chicken burrito with key lime guacamole to hit the spot.
Chico’s Cantina
$ | (305) 296-4714 | WEBSITE
Mexican food in Key West is often reduced to just tacos and margaritas, but Chico’s Cantina proves there’s so much more. The restaurant sits in an unassuming strip mall, with easy parking and a welcoming entrance. Inside, the space is cozy and vibrant, with colorful murals and quick, friendly service that feels like a family kitchen in Mexico City. The standout is the beef burrito in green chili sauce: perfectly seasoned, with a generous portion of cheese dip and ground beef.
You’ll definitely want to order two of the Pipian Verde Chicken—it’s that good. The birria tacos are exceptional, and the yellowtail snapper dishes are consistently excellent. Save room for the flan, which is extra special. With vegetarian options like bean burritos with Gilmore and sour cream with avocado, plus really good, very cheesy quesadillas, it’s superior to any drive-through and ideal for date nights or a quick meal.
Old Town Mexican Cafe
$$ | (305) 296-7500 | WEBSITE
If you’re craving street corn, grilled Mahi Mahi tacos, and all of their zesty companions, look no further than Old Town Mexican Cafe. It’s a Mexican cuisine specialist where you can scan the vibrant menu for favorites like machaca tostada, burritos, and all of the flavorful options listed above, and your server will give you the full rundown on the house margaritas.
It can feel a little pricey at times but if you’re trying to convince yourself you’re vacationing in Mexico, you’ve come to the right place. Oh, and important intel for outdoor diners and people-watchers alike, the restaurant offers a charming patio seating area.
Karlita’s Cafe
$ | (305) 399-5842 | WEBSITE
You know that feeling you get when you stumble upon a hidden courtyard in an old city and realize you’ve found your new favorite spot? Karlita’s Cafe is that feeling with the added bonus of freshly squeezed orange juice, generous breakfast burritos, and the aroma of Cuban coffee wafting through the air. Even if you’re just grabbing a quick coffee, it’s impossible to see the steak egg and cheese wrap with hashbrowns being made to order and not decide to stay for a proper meal.
With limited indoor seating but plenty of charming outdoor tables, stop by in the morning for a home-cooked steak taco and cafe con leche or swing by later for a satisfying chicken taco salad and that authentic, pleasant service that makes you feel right at home.
Jose’s Latin Food
$ | (305) 304-6838 | WEBSITE
In a town filled with leisurely seafood spots, Jose’s Latin Food is a welcome destination for hearty and quick Mexican meals. The modest, family-oriented restaurant is simple yet inviting, with orders placed at the counter but served to the handful of tables with a smile and extra limes for tacos. Come lunchtime, sunburned tourists and local workers gather outside, eagerly waiting for their takeaway burritos.
This is a well-run operation so there’s rarely much delay before generously stuffed steak and bean burritos, comforting and huge nica platters, and spicy carne asada tacos appear on tables and in paper takeout bags.
Kim’s Kuban
$ | (305) 296-2878 | WEBSITE
Tucked away in Key West, Kim’s Kuban is grab-and-go ready. Everything from the quaint picnic tables outside, to the unassuming take-out counter, to the super friendly service, creates a spot primed for convenience. Even the hearty Cuban-inspired dishes like the juicy Cuban burger or the savory Cuban Mix sandwich are “to eat on the run”. There’s no fuss though, so it’s ideal for a quick lunch break when you still want something delicious.
Or, just pick up some hot empanadas and a café con leche—they’ll make it easy with their helpful ordering.
El Molcajete Mexican Restaurant KW
$ | (305) 992-8913 | WEBSITE
El Molcajete Mexican Restaurant KW is home to some expert Mexican comfort food. In case you’re picturing a taco with a PhD, let us clarify by saying that this cozy, walk-in friendly spot specializes in affordable, satisfying classics. From delicious cheese enchiladas to the small but decent Al Pastor Sopes, many of the dishes here fall around the $12 mark. That includes the reliable enchiladas—not an exaggeration—the cheesy, saucy staple that keeps folks coming back.
You should also know that there’s great music playing in the carved-wood chair dining room, so a post-dinner moment soaking in the atmosphere is covered too.
Amigos Tortilla Bar
$ | (305) 292-2009 | WEBSITE
Key West is the land of great bites. There are many options in the area for casual eats, quick lunches, and satisfying snacks but nowhere does it quite like Amigos Tortilla Bar. One of the best Mexican spots in town, the dining room looks like the kind of cozy family kitchen you instantly feel at home in and the food is impressive enough for a meal here to feel like a smart choice.
Our game plan would be to stick to the popular dishes so you can get involved in the corn, fish tacos, and the beef bowl.
