Where to Eat on Marathon Key

 Where to Eat on Marathon Key: A Guide to the Best Restaurants in the Heart of the Florida Keys

Located right in the middle of the Florida Keys, Marathon Key is a laid-back island city known for its beautiful beaches, family-friendly attractions, and water activities like snorkeling, boating, and fishing. But beyond the palm-lined roads and turquoise waters lies a culinary scene that blends classic Keys flavors with fresh seafood, tropical produce, and creative flair.

Whether you’re on a road trip down the Overseas Highway, staying at a local resort, or just passing through on your way to Key West, Marathon has plenty to offer when it comes to dining. From tiki bars to beachfront grills and seafood shacks to fine dining, here’s a comprehensive guide to where to eat on Marathon Key.

1. Keys Fisheries

Location: 3502 Gulfview Ave, Marathon
What to Try: Lobster Reuben, Stone Crab Claws (in season), Tuna Nachos

A local institution, Keys Fisheries is one of the most iconic places to eat in Marathon. This waterfront seafood market and restaurant is famous for its Lobster Reuben, a unique twist on the traditional Reuben sandwich using fresh Florida lobster instead of corned beef. Their stone crab claws, served chilled with mustard sauce, are a seasonal delicacy (October–May). Grab a cold drink, sit at the marina, and enjoy the island breeze. The vibe is casual and authentic—perfect for a relaxing meal after a day on the water.

2. Florida Keys Steak and Lobster House

Location: 3660 Overseas Hwy, Marathon
What to Try: Surf and Turf, Lobster Tail, Grilled Grouper

If you’re craving something a little more upscale but still island-friendly, head to the Florida Keys Steak and Lobster House. This restaurant is known for combining high-end dining with local seafood flavor. Their surf and turf dishes, like filet mignon with grilled lobster tail, are incredibly popular. They also offer an extensive sushi menu and a solid wine list. The setting is elegant but not overly formal, making it a great choice for date night or a celebratory dinner.

3. The Stuffed Pig

Location: 3520 Overseas Hwy, Marathon
What to Try: Lobster Benedict, Conch Fritters, Banana Pancakes

For a hearty breakfast or brunch, The Stuffed Pig is a must-visit. This charming roadside eatery offers indoor and outdoor seating and a menu full of Southern-inspired comfort food with a tropical twist. Their Lobster Benedict is one of the best in the Keys, loaded with tender lobster meat and smothered in hollandaise sauce. Don’t skip the conch fritters or the banana pancakes either. Get there early—it fills up quickly, especially on weekends.

4. Sunset Grille & Raw Bar

Location: 7 Knights Key Blvd, Marathon
What to Try: Raw Oysters, Fish Tacos, Tropical Cocktails

Located right at the foot of the Seven Mile Bridge, Sunset Grille is a lively, fun spot that combines fresh seafood with fantastic views and a festive vibe. This place is known for its large poolside tiki bar, open-air dining, and live music. Order a round of raw oysters, try their blackened fish tacos, and sip on a rum punch while you watch the sun sink behind the bridge. It’s one of the best places in Marathon for sunset dining.

5. Island Fish Company

Location: 12648 Overseas Hwy, Marathon
What to Try: Mahi-Mahi Sandwich, Coconut Shrimp, Conch Chowder

Set right on the water with panoramic views of the Gulf, Island Fish Company is a quintessential Keys seafood restaurant. The open-air dining area, tiki-style roof, and palm trees create a relaxing tropical ambiance. Try their Mahi-Mahi Sandwich, served grilled or blackened with fresh toppings, or go for the crispy coconut shrimp. Their conch chowder is rich and flavorful, perfect as a starter. The restaurant also has a full-service bar with tropical cocktails, local beers, and daily specials.

6. Castaway Waterfront Restaurant & Sushi Bar

Location: 1406 Ocean View Ave, Marathon
What to Try: Yellowtail Snapper, Lionfish Sushi Roll, Grouper Sandwich

For a local favorite tucked away from the main road, check out Castaway. This casual waterfront joint is beloved for its creative sushi and fresh-caught fish. The Lionfish Roll is a standout, promoting sustainability by using the invasive lionfish in delicious ways. You’ll also find Florida staples like yellowtail snapper, blackened grouper, and crab cakes on the menu. With a dock for boaters and views of the canal, it’s a cozy, rustic spot where locals and tourists mingle.

7. Brutus Seafood Market & Eatery

Location: 6950 Overseas Hwy, Marathon
What to Try: Fish Sandwich, Shrimp Tacos, Seafood Platter

Half seafood market, half restaurant, Brutus Seafood offers incredibly fresh food in a laid-back atmosphere. Their fish is locally sourced and simply prepared to highlight natural flavors. The fish sandwich is a fan favorite—grilled, fried, or blackened—and comes with house-made tartar sauce. If you’re really hungry, go for the seafood platter, which includes a generous portion of shrimp, fish, and scallops. They also offer lunch specials and family meals to-go.

8. Herbie’s Bar & Chowder House

Location: 6350 Overseas Hwy, Marathon
What to Try: Grouper Tacos, Shrimp Po' Boy, Florida Stone Crab

Dating back to the 1940s, Herbie’s is one of the oldest restaurants in the Keys and a staple of the Marathon dining scene. This funky, friendly spot offers an eclectic menu featuring local seafood, Caribbean spices, and classic American fare. The Grouper Tacos are flavorful and fresh, and the shrimp po’ boy sandwich is packed with perfectly fried shrimp. If you’re in town during stone crab season, make sure to get a plate—Herbie’s does it right.

9. Barracuda Grill

Location: 4290 Overseas Hwy, Marathon
What to Try: Grilled Swordfish, Seared Scallops, Lobster Ravioli

For a quieter and more intimate dining experience, try the Barracuda Grill, a cozy restaurant with a gourmet edge. It’s a local secret, with a small but impressive menu that focuses on high-quality seafood, steaks, and pasta. The grilled swordfish is beautifully cooked and served with seasonal vegetables. Their lobster ravioli is creamy, rich, and full of flavor. It’s a great choice for a romantic evening or special occasion.

10. La Niña Restaurant

Location: 1571 Overseas Hwy, Marathon
What to Try: Cuban Sandwich, Fried Snapper, Empanadas

Looking for something different? Head to La Niña, a no-frills Cuban eatery that delivers big on flavor and authenticity. The Cuban sandwich is perfectly pressed, with tender pork, ham, cheese, and mustard. Their fried snapper is a delicious and affordable seafood option, and the empanadas make a great snack or side. It’s a quick, casual place, ideal for lunch or a grab-and-go meal before heading to the beach or the marina.

Final Tips for Dining on Marathon Key

• Go Early for Dinner: Some restaurants close early (especially off-season), so plan accordingly.

• Sunset Seating: Waterfront spots like Sunset Grille, Island Fish Company, and Keys Fisheries offer incredible sunset views—arrive early for the best tables.

• Try the Local Catch: Look for dishes made with yellowtail snapper, grouper, hogfish, lionfish, or Florida lobster for the most authentic Keys flavor.

• Stone Crab Season: Visit between October and May for fresh, sweet stone crab claws.

Conclusion

Marathon Key may be relaxed and unpretentious, but its food scene is full of flavor, variety, and local charm. From hearty breakfasts and tiki-bar cocktails to elegant dinners and seafood fresh off the boat, there’s something for every appetite and budget. Whether you're here for a weekend or just passing through on your journey to Key West, take the time to enjoy the culinary treasures that Marathon has to offer—you’ll be glad you did.