Do you want to try the best Key Lime Pie in Key West? Then look no further! We’ve got you covered on all things Key Lime Pie. We’ve been on the hunt for the perfect Key Lime Pie and tasted some of the best in Key West.
If you’re heading to the southernmost point of Florida, you’ve got to try this iconic dessert. Many locals and businesses alike claim to have the original recipe for Key Lime Pie. Though they can’t all hold this title, they do all serve up irresistible Key Lime Pie. It’s sweet, it’s tangy, and it originates from the last of Florida’s Keys.
Key Lime Pie is traditionally served with a graham cracker crust and a zesty condensed milk filling. Many choose to add whipped cream for extra taste and texture. Some even pile it high with a lifetime supply of meringue. Others have been known to step outside the confines of tradition and use some unconventional flavor combinations and make a unique Key Lime Pie. But the key (pun intended) to this dessert is the Key Lime juice. Locally grown, real Key Lime juice is what sets this pie apart.
You may be someone who opts for chocolate over something bitter. You may have tried Key Lime Pie before. But I guarantee you’ve never tried anything as good as Key West Key Lime Pie. You can almost taste the fact it’s made with local ingredients and by local people.
This is our guide to the best Key Lime Pie in Key West. We’ve done our research as it is our favorite dessert, and we are always up for some good Key Lime Pie. You’ll leave the island knowing that you’ll never have another piece of pie this good!
What is Key Lime Pie?
Key Lime Pie is a quintessential American dessert. This pie is made from Key Lime juice, sweetened condensed milk, egg yolks, and pie crust. The pie can be served just as it is, topped with meringue, or covered in whipped cream. A traditional Key Lime Pie recipe uses graham crackers for the crust. Though many stick to the traditional pie, some Key West restaurants go a little maverick! Mango, passionfruit, and blueberry can also be used for a unique slice of Key Lime Pie.
If you aren’t up for making your own, Kermit’s Key West Key Lime Shoppe ships their famous Key Lime Pie, and it is actually cheaper than you’d think. Click here to view options and order online.
History of Key Lime Pie
Depending on who you ask, the history and origin of Key Lime Pie varies. It does, however seem unanimous that the dessert originated in Key West. Many establishments and locals claim that their delicious Key Lime Pie recipe is the authentic one.
A lot of people believe Aunt Sally made the first ever Key Lime Pie. She was the cook of ship salvaging millionaire William Curry during the 19th century. She apparently took the recipe from a fisherman and perfected the pie we know today. William Curry built a luxurious mansion in 1855, that you can stay in today. The Curry Mansion Inn claims to be the original makers of Key Lime Pie.
The most essential ingredient in this dessert is, of course, real Key Limes. The Key Lime tree probably came to the Florida Keys during the 1500s from Malaysia. Though commercial Key Lime production was popular during the 1800s, today it’s not common. Key Lime trees are only really found in backyards and used by locals to make this delightful pie.
Why is Key West famous for Key Lime Pie?
It is believed that this famous pie originated from the southernmost Florida Key, Key West. The juice in Key Lime Pie comes from Key Lime trees. In remote Key West, refrigeration was hard to come by. So people would use condensed milk instead of milk. This sparked the start of the idea of using this ingredient to make Key Lime Pie.
Today the Key Lime Pie tradition continues. There are so many amazing restaurants in Key West to pick up a great Key Lime Pie.
Where is the Best Key Lime Pie in Key West?
The best Key Lime Pie in Key West is a hotly contested issue. Locals simply can’t agree who has the best pies, with many having their own regular go-to Key Lime Pie haunts. One of the most popular places to enjoy a slice (or two) is Kermit’s. Their sweet but bitter pie is the perfect sugar fix. Check out our best Key West Key Lime Pie spots and choose your favorite.
1. Kermit’s Key West Key Lime Shoppe
The Food Network awarded Kermit’s the ‘Best Key Lime Pie in Key West’ title. We’d have to agree that Kermit’s is one of the best Key Lime Pies in Key West. Kermit’s serves a traditional Key Lime Pie recipe with a buttery graham cracker crust and whipped cream. Choose an entire pie, a slice, or chocolate-covered frozen Key Lime Pie on a stick. You’ll be in pie heaven at Kermit’s Key Lime Shoppe.
Their frozen pie bars are dipped in delicious Belgian chocolate. The perfect treat for a hot day in the Key West sun. They also serve up gluten-free Key Lime Pie that is just as delicious as the original.
Kermit’s became so popular they opened up a second Key West location. Their Elizabeth Street shop serves up breakfast, lunch, and of course, Key Lime Pie. If you are looking for a quick, affordable lunch, Kermit’s Cafe has really good salads and wraps.
Kermit’s is also a great place to grab some pie-themed souvenirs. Their shop sells Kermit’s clothing, Key Lime soap, and even Key Lime lip balm! We always pick up a bottle of Key Lime juice made with authentic Key Limes. We like to make Key Lime cocktails at home during the summer. You might even see Kermit Carpenter himself there. You won’t miss him in his key lime green attire.
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- Address: 200 Elizabeth Street Key West, 431 Front Street, Key West
2. Key Lime Pie Bakery
A bakery whose name includes Key Lime Pie has a lot to live up to. So it’s a good job Key Lime Pie Bakery serves some of the finest Key Lime Pie. along with other delights. The bakery’s original family recipe uses 100% pure Key Lime juice. There’s just always something satisfying about knowing you’re tasting a family secret.
Their graham cracker crust pies are served by the slice or a whole pie. They make a moreish Key Lime Pie mousse and Key West’s favorite, chocolate-dipped pie. You can also buy their Key Lime concentrate to take home. Try creating your own Key West Key Lime Pie recipe.
- Address: 412 Greene St., Key West
3. Blue Heaven
If you don’t care for tradition, you’ll love Blue Heaven’s Key Lime Pie. They are known for their yummy meringue-topped pie. Their graham cracker crust pie is topped with an overly generous 6-inch serving of meringue! Their pie will send any meringue lover into a state of sugary euphoria.
Key Lime Pie is not their only draw. Many head to Blue Heaven for ‘Breakfast with the Roosters’ on their outdoor patio. They are one of the best restaurants in Key West for breakfast. There’s a shabby bohemian vibe to this place. Plastic chairs, a makeshift tin-roofed bar, and homemade signs make for a characterful visit. Be sure to head there early as there are no reservations. Enjoy pancakes, homemade granola, banana bread, and more, all with the sound of crowing roosters.
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- Address: 729 Thomas St., Key West
4. Old Town Bakery
The family-owned Old Town Bakery is set in a traditional Key West home. The couple owners were determined to keep its 19th-century Key West charm. They kept the Dade County pine walls and the exposed beams. The authentic Florida Keys charm really does compliment their authentic baking.
The Old Town Bakery is a popular locals favorite spot. Early in the morning, you’ll find a bustling crowd enjoying pastries, coffee, and good conversation. They serve pastries, breads, crunchy baguette sandwiches, artisanal cheese, and of course Key Lime Pie.
They were awarded ‘Best Key Lime Pie in the Florida Keys’ by Miami New Times. More proof that Key West is the place to go for this tangy dessert. Pick up a slice or a whole pie, their Key Lime Pie comes with fresh whipped cream.
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- Address: 930 Eaton St, Key West
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5. Moondog Cafe & Bakery
The Moondog Cafe & Bakery is a really Instagrammable spot. The place is covered in murals, including ones featuring their cute French Bulldog mascot. The decor is on point, and they’ve created a welcoming and lively space to eat.
They serve breakfast, lunch, and dinner, and you guessed it, they also have some of the tastiest Key Lime Pies. They have a good selection of food to choose from too. Try the Quiche Lorraine, Breakfast Burritos, burgers, pizza, and treats from the bakery. The bakery sells croissants, Key Lime Pie, eclairs, muffins, and zucchini bread. There are also a lot of gluten-free and vegan options. There really is something for everyone.
It is a great spot to grab a seat in their cozy outdoor seating area for the best atmosphere. It’s lovely at night with the hanging lights and chattering guests.
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- Address: 823 Whitehead St., Key West
6. Key West Key Lime Pie Co
This place’s motto is “if we don’t make it, we don’t sell it”. They are all about authentic food made fresh on site. They are best known for their traditional family Key Lime Pie recipe. Their pies are a graham cracker base, topped with spirals of whipped cream.
They haven’t just settled for only serving authentic pie. They have created some exclusive and innovative flavor combinations. While die-hard Key Lime Pie fans may stick up their noses, dessert lovers won’t. Try mango, blueberry, or toasted coconut for something a little different. They also have gluten-free pies and chocolate-covered pie on a stick.
Something unique you can do here is going to a Key Lime Pie class, it was one of our favorite things to do in Key West. Whip up your own mini Key Lime Pie right in the company’s own kitchen. Afterward, enjoy some of the best Key Lime Pie in Key West, handmade by you! This is a great activity for kids if you are on a family vacation, aspiring bakers, and of course pie lovers. This is one of the go-to places in Key West to try Key Lime Pie.
- Address: 511 Greene St., Key West
7. Sarabeth’s
Of the best Key Lime Pie in Key West, Sarabeth’s is a great choice. It is a popular spot for brunch and dinner. Head there any day of the week to enjoy one of the best breakfasts in Key West. They pride themselves on their fresh and modern take on classic American dishes. The Lemon Ricotta Pancakes are a real crowd-pleaser. Their Key Lime Pie French Toast is a clever twist on a classic breakfast treat. They also do quesadillas, veggie burgers, and other yummy dishes.
You must round off a meal at Sarabeth’s with a slice of their Key Lime Pie. They use a traditional Key Lime Pie recipe that’s bursting with flavor. Other popular desserts include the Strawberry Shortcake, Chocolate Pudding, and Orange Apricot Bread Pudding.
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- Address: 530 Simonton St., Key West
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8. The Cafe
Calling all vegans, this is the perfect place for you! The Cafe has the best VEGAN Key Lime Pie in Key West. In fact, they are the only place that serves vegan Key Lime Pie. If you don’t fancy Key Lime Pie, then there are other vegan options too. Carrot cake and chocolate cake are just two other vegan delights. There are plenty more!
Visit for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, and don’t worry. They also serve non-vegan dishes. Breakfast is super popular with tons of veggie, vegan, and classic options on offer.
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- Address: 509 Southard St., Key West
9. Mattheessen’s
Mattheessen’s has two stores, one on busy Duval Street in Key West and the other on Greene Street. They started with a small coffee kiosk, then opened a fudge and cookie store. Now Mattheessen’s is a cache of all your choice sweet treats, including Key Lime Pie. They are best known for their giant cookies and yummy ice cream. Their traditional Key Lime Pie slice has become a real crowd pleaser. They also serve up Key Lime Pie on a stick, dipped in Belgium dark chocolate.
If you’re after a late-night sugar fix, Mattheessen’s has got you covered. They’re open till midnight so that you can grab this sweet Key West food. If you are out on the town checking out the best Key West bars, stop by for something sweet to end the night.
- Address: 419 Duval St., Key West, 106 Duval St., Key West, 614 Greene St., Key West.
10. Cafe Marquesa
Cafe Marquesa is one of the best restaurants in Key West and well worth a visit. It’s one of the area’s highest-rated restaurants, serving New American fares. Cafe Marquesa is the perfect location for a date or dinner with friends. There’s a lovely atmosphere, and you’ll soon see why it’s many people’s favorite place.
For dinner, you can opt for the Crispy Yellowtail Snapper or the duck breast. As well as locally sourced Key West food, they are known for their house-made desserts. Their Key Lime Pie is topped with whipped cream and walnuts and is divine. They also have a liquid Key Lime Pie, with RumChata Limón, Key Lime Rum, and cream. I’m drooling just thinking about it! If you love key lime flavor you have to try it.
Flawless presentation and a combination of fine and casual dining make this one of the best places to go.
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- Address: 600 Fleming St., Key West
