Nestled in the breathtaking Florida Keys, Marathon hosts many local gems that boast delicious menus. From fresh plates of seafood to mouthwatering steaks to beverages, like coffee, wine, cocktails, and beer to international flavors, this city will bring you on a journey of delightful Marathon dining experience!
Many restaurants in Marathon, FL, are worth checking out, but here is the curated list of the best restaurants you can try!
Let’s start with one of the most popular restaurants in Marathon, Florida! Keys Fisheries is a seafood restaurant serving various fresh, locally sourced seafood delicacies.
The restaurant has a fish market, marina, upper-level bar, and raw bar, which makes locals and visitors keep coming back. It is a perfect spot if you are looking for a chill setting while enjoying the view of the bay.
Must-Try:
- Stone Crab – Available straight from Keys Fisheries’ boats from October 15 to May 1. There are three options, including Jumbo, Large, and Select Stone Crab Claws!
- World Famous Lobster Reuben – A sandwich featuring flavorful rye bread with a generous amount of lobster, Swiss cheese, and tangy kraut.
- Fried Mahi Tacos – Tasty taco with mahi-mahi fish, topped with Agave Slaw. Lime cream and Pico de gallo add a fresh kick, while Cotija cheese brings a creamy, salty finish.
Reviews:
“Keys Fisheries is a true gem in the Florida Keys. We had the pleasure of not only buying fresh fish from their market but also dining at the restaurant, and the experience was outstanding.
The quality of the seafood they offer is exceptional. The freshness of the fish was evident in every bite, and it’s no surprise that they are known for it. The variety of options and the preparation were both excellent.
The restaurant provided a cozy and welcoming atmosphere to enjoy our meal. The service was friendly and efficient, making the experience even more enjoyable.
If you’re in the Florida Keys and looking for the best in fresh seafood, Keys Fisheries is the place to go. It’s a five-star destination for seafood lovers, and I can’t recommend it enough.” – Rene Schildt
Restaurant Information:
- Address: 3502 Gulfview Ave, Marathon, FL
- Contact Number: 866-743-4353
- Price Range: $6 - $39
- Click here to check out their menu!
A casual diner that has been one of the staple restaurants in Marathon, FL, serving hearty breakfast and lunch for three decades already. The Stuffed Pig offers open-air dining on the garden patio that is covered by a large tiki hut. They also accept bookings to rent for parties, weddings, and other events.
Must-Try:
- Ultimate Bloody Mary – Top-notch cocktail made with high-quality vodka like Grey Goose, Tito’s, or Stoli Jalapeno. It is garnished with garnishes like shrimp, bacon, sausage, and stuffed olive.
- Pig Slopper – A hearty and delicious menu made with hash browns stuffed with bacon, sausage, scrambled eggs, and cheese, covered in gravy.
- Shrimp & Grits – Savory grilled shrimp served on creamy grits with cheddar and bacon eggs toast.
Reviews:
“If you want big heaping plates full to the rim with your breakfast must-haves, THIS is the spot! It has limited inside seating, but luckily, there is shaded outside seating available. We went numerous times, and everything we tried was outstanding. Just know it’s a small place and you’re going to wait a minute for your food.” – Terisa Burch
Restaurant Information:
- Address: 3520 Overseas Hwy, Marathon, FL
- Contact Number: +1 (305) 743-4059
- Price Range: $10 - $30
- Click here to check out their menu!
Want to grab a good bite to eat late at night? Try Marathon Grill & Ale House! Established in 2013, this sports bar restaurant has been offering American food, cocktails, and a range of craft brews in a chill strip mall setup.
Must-Try:
- Fried Shrimp – Perfectly seasoned and cooked fried shrimp that offers a blend of flavors without being overly greasy. You can choose the flavor you want, from buffalo, honey hot BBQ, teriyaki, or bang bang.
- Conch Fritters – A delectable bite with a balanced savory dough and a generous blend of conch, peppers, and onions. The crispy exterior gives a satisfying ratio of flavorful filling.
- BBQ Pork Mac N’ Cheese – A mouthwatering dish featuring classic macaroni and cheese served with BBQ pork and topped with jalapenos, creating a perfect blend of cheesy, savory, and slightly spicy flavor.
Reviews:
“Friendly bar, great service, amazing bar food. French fries are awesome! Everything came out piping hot and we ate it so fast, I was barely able to get a picture of it. It had outdoor seating and is dog friendly. Definitely recommend if you’re in the neighborhood.” – Angela Knotts
Restaurant Information:
- Address: 5800 Overseas Hwy #12, Marathon, FL 33050, United States
- Contact Number: +1 305-743-5888
- Price Range: $2 - $29
- Click here to check out their menu!
Image by Larry White on Pixabay
Lighthouse Grill is a chic restaurant & bar at the Keys, offering an American menu of fresh seafood creations, wine, and craft cocktails featuring local distilleries. While dining, you can see the Faro Blanco lighthouse and enjoy the relaxing bayside view setting.
When planning to dine in at Lighthouse Grill in outdoor seating, make sure to book a reservation with them and select the “Outdoor Seating” option. Otherwise, outdoor dining isn’t guaranteed and might have standard seating indoors instead.
Must-Try:
- Prime Rib – High-quality beef that was slowly roasted, creating a flavorful crust with herbs. It is served with garlic mashed potatoes, au jus, and horseradish, adding extra richness.
- Seared Scallops – Tender and flavorful scallops perfectly cooked to a golden brown. It is topped with creamy basil risotto and has a hint of lemon, creating a harmonious combination of texture and taste.
- Local Beer Flight – 4 oz pours of various Southern Florida craft beer that lets you sip and experience the local beer.
Reviews:
“During our return journey from K West, we were on the lookout for something extraordinary, a place that combined a modern kitchen with a beautiful atmosphere, and this restaurant turned out to be the perfect match.
Lighthouse Grill offers an exceptional menu that caters to connoisseurs of haute cuisine. From the first bite to the last, the food impressed us with its exquisite taste and impeccable presentation. Each dish was a work of art, crafted with precision and showcasing the chef’s culinary expertise. The flavors harmonized beautifully, leaving our taste buds in awe.
One of the standout moments during our dining experience at Lighthouse Grill was undoubtedly the exquisite Scallop Risotto. It was the best order of the evening, showcasing the culinary prowess of the kitchen. The perfectly seared scallops atop a bed of creamy, flavorful risotto created a harmonious combination that left us craving for more. The dish was a true testament to the chef’s skill in balancing flavors and textures, and it surpassed our expectations in every way.We opted to dine outside, and the fresh ocean air from the nearby golf course added an element of tranquility to our meal. The view of the lighthouse added to the overall ambiance, providing a picturesque backdrop that enhanced our dining experience. It was a delightful combination of culinary delights and natural beauty.
If you’re searching for a dining experience that goes beyond the ordinary, Lighthouse Grill is the place to be. With its remarkable menu, impeccable flavors, and breathtaking views, it truly stands out as a culinary destination worth savoring. We highly recommend indulging in the delights of this establishment and immersing yourself in its wonderful ambiance.” – Dillon Mykalo
Restaurant Information:
- Address: 1994 Overseas Hwy, Marathon, FL 33050
- Contact Number: +1 305-434-9039
- Price Range: $5 - $200
- Click here to check out their menu!
Image by mekan abdyllayew on Pixabay
One of the local favorite bars and restaurants in Marathon, FL, offering a wide variety of dishes, perfect for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Their menu includes southern seafood, sushi, steaks, and cuisines with Asian influences. They also provide a great selection of beer on their full bar.
When dining here, booking a dinner reservation a day or two before you plan to dine in is recommended.
Must-Try:
- Lion Fish Sushi Roll – A delectable choice on their menu that comes as two pieces per order. You can enjoy it as Sashimi, where the fish is sliced, or as Nigiri, hand-molded over a rice ball.
- Lobster Bisque – A cup of rich and flavorful soup that perfectly blends the flavor of lobster, herbs, and spices.
- Lobster Enchiladas – A piece of dessert that uses lime and is crowned with a delightful layer of crispy coconut, adding a perfect touch of texture to the sweet and tangy flavor combination.
Reviews:
“I had the immense pleasure of dining at Castaways in Marathon, and let me just say, it’s a hidden gem you won’t want to miss! From the outside, you might not expect much, but trust me, the saying “Don’t judge a book by its cover” couldn’t be more accurate here.
The service was exceptional—truly some of the friendliest I’ve encountered in the Middle Keys. Every staff member went above and beyond to make our visit special – especially Brian our server.
Now, let’s talk about the food. Each dish was a masterpiece, both in presentation and taste. Every bite was absolutely delicious, leaving us eager for the next.
But it’s not just about the food and service; the atmosphere is the cherry on top. Situated on the waterfront, the restaurant offers an authentic Keys experience that’s both relaxed and captivating.
If you’re in the Marathon area, do yourself a favor and stop by Castaways. It encapsulates everything you’d hope for in a Florida Keys dining experience and then some!” – Jamie Engel
Restaurant Information:
- Address: 1406 Ocean View Ave, Marathon, FL 33050, United States
- Contact Number: (305) 743-6247
- Price Range: $2 - $200
- Click here to check out their menu!
Image by Michael Moriarty on Pixabay
La Nina is a down-to-earth establishment that provides a comforting flavor of traditional, homestyle Cuban cuisine and coffee. Aside from its delicious Cuban menu, it also offers familiar American dishes.
Dining here gives an ambiance of local charm and rustic simplicity that creates a cozy setting, ideal for friendly meetings or with those who have kids.
Must-Try:
- Cafe Con Leche – Made with an equal amount of coffee and scalded milk, that brings hot, rich, strong, and sweet beverages.
- Cuban Sandwich – Made with crispy and freshly baked Cuban bread with pork, cheese, pickles, and ham.
- Roast Pork – A shred of pork accompanied by a hearty mountain of rice and flavorful black beans. This breakfast dish comes complete with tamales and fried plantains.
Reviews:
“The place might be small, but that’s part of its charm. Growing up in a Cuban household, I felt at home. The food was authentic, the people were genuine, and the service was fast. You can order from inside or from ‘the ventanita’. They have outside seating if you need more room. Highly recommend. #CubansForTheWin” – Pilar Hernandez
Restaurant Information:
- Address: 1571 Overseas Hwy, Marathon, FL 33050, United States
- Contact Number: +1 305-517-6226
- Price Range: $10 - $30
Image by -Rita-👩🍳 und 📷 mit ❤ on Pixabay
Behind the Fairfield Inn & Suites, Sparky’s Landing Fish N Cocktails offers seafood cuisines and refreshing cocktails, creating the ultimate dining experience.
The restaurant provides a setting that is as delightful as the cuisine, with its chill waterside ambiance accompanied by live music, creating an entertaining backdrop while enjoying your meal.
Must-Try:
- Chicken Wings – Crispy and flavorful chicken wings tossed in buffalo sauce served with celery and creamy blue cheese.
- Cajun Pasta – A tasty pasta dish with a creamy sauce loaded with tomatoes, mushrooms, and green onions, with a choice of chicken, dolphin, or shrimp.
Reviews:
“You would never know they are back there… but you won’t forget once you’ve been here! Sparky’s Landing is located Mile Marker 54, with water views from the dining area and bar. The menu has options for everyone, with daily specials that you’ll want to make sure you pay attention to. One of the specials, Pork Pot Stickers, was my choice; they did not disappoint. Great atmosphere and service was excellent. The staff is friendly and very welcoming. If you’re in the Marathon Florida area looking for lunch or dinner, you might want to check them out!” – Mile Marker Brian
Restaurant Information:
- Address: 13205 Overseas Hwy., Marathon, FL 33050
- Contact Number: (305) 363-2959
- Price Range: $1 - $39
- Click here to check out their menu!
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A beachfront restaurant known for its best quality cuisines, from lamb and chops, seafood, beef, poultry, desserts, and pasta. The place is adorned with beautiful decorations and a waterfront view, perfect for a romantic dinner night.
Must-Try:
- Hogfish Francaise – A fish dish with buttery French sauce, complimenting delicate hogfish flavors that will melt in your mouth.
- Beef Wellington – Juicy beef wrapped in a flaky pastry and baked, served with savory gravy.
Reviews:
“Highly recommend Hideaway! The service was outstanding. The chef even came out and had great conversation with us. The food was amazing, and the dessert was top-notch. The view is beautiful on the porch. This place is very deceiving from the outside but best restaurant on Marathon. This is a true hidden gem.” – Miranda Schultz
Restaurant Information:
- Address: 57784 Overseas Hwy, Marathon, Fl 33050
- Contact Number: +1 305-289-1554
- Price Range: $10 - $50
One of the best restaurants in Marathon FL, offering an extensive menu of fresh local seafood, steaks, chops, lamb, pastas, vegetarian options, and homemade desserts. They have a tweaked menu daily and usually feature different appetizers per night.
While you enjoy their delicious menu, you can partner it with their soft drinks and impressive wine and craft cocktails. It has a casual and family-friendly vibe with a reasonable price range.
Must-Try:
- Shrimp Scampi – A pasta dish featuring shrimp on an Al Dente linguine. It boasts a flavorful flavor of garlic and a hint of tomato sauce for a delicious, balanced scampi experience.
- Seafood Quesadilla – A mouthwater seafood medley! It is pan-seared or blackened scallops, shrimp, and fish, with scallions and shredded cheddar. It is served with creamy sour cream, salsa, and guacamole.
- Brussel Sprouts – Fried brussel sprouts in a flavorful Thai curry sauce.
Reviews:
“My husband and two young children ate here for dinner on a Tuesday night. There was no wait, compared to over an hour wait at the more popular/touristy restaurants, so we gave it a chance. We were more than happy with our decision. The atmosphere was family friendly, but also sophisticated. The wait staff was more than attentive, and the food was absolutely delicious. I had the Mahi with grilled vegetables and the best mashed potatoes I’ve ever had. My husband had the same dish, but with yellowtail snapper. Both fish pieces were fresh and cooked perfectly. Even the kids grilled cheese sandwiches were plated with a fancy twist! We highly recommend this restaurant to anyone looking for great food and great service, all at a reasonable price.” – Jennifer Kalasky
Restaurant Information:
- Address: 4290 Overseas Hwy, Mile Marker 49, FL-5, Marathon, FL 33050, United States
- Contact Number: +1 305-743-3314
- Price Range: $3 - $40
Wrap Up
Marathon, Florida, has a vibrant food scene for every taste, preference, and budget. The extensive menu and unique dishes of each of the restaurants listed ensure there’s something for everyone to taste in this charming Florida Keys town.
Not only that, but these restaurants in Marathon, FL, cater to different preferences; whether you are looking for a budget-friendly one, kid-friendly, upscale, cozy, or a restaurant with dietary restriction menus, the city surely has your back!
Marathon, FL, is waiting for you! If you plan to visit the city and need assistance, do not hesitate to call me at 305-912-2177 or email me at tracy@thebeautifulkeys.com, and I will be glad to help you!
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Frequently Asked Questions
1. Are there any signature dishes you recommend trying?
Marathon is known for its fresh seafood dishes, popular ones being lobster dishes or seafood pastas. However, each restaurant in Marathon has its own signature dishes, and if you want to try them out, you can ask their staff or chef to recommend one for you.
2. Are these restaurants suitable for families with children?
Yes. Many restaurants in Marathon are family-friendly and offer kid-friendly menus. The cozy, laid-back, and coastal vibe of Marathon is also evident in many of its restaurants, perfect for a family-friendly dining experience.
3. Do these restaurants accommodate dietary restrictions?
Many restaurants in Marathon accommodate several dietary restrictions. Since the city’s dishes are mostly centered on seafood, restaurants offer menus with vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free options.
You can also inform staff about your dietary restrictions when making reservations or placing an order.
4. Do these restaurants offer outdoor seating?
Yes! Many restaurants use Marathon’s beautiful weather or beaches by providing outdoor seating options. From the waterfront patio, terrace, and dining al fresco, you will find one that will allow you to enjoy your meal while enjoying the fresh air and beautiful views.
