restaurant recommendation for Key West
 

I am going to Key West for a week in mid-August for a friend's birthday. I want to take her out to a nice dinner, any suggestions? I am thinking of some place a little fancy, or unusual. She is a picky eater...I may or may not take that into account when picking a restaurant. :)

Louie's Backyard is great but might qualify as a lot fancy. The afterdeck bar is on the waterfront and seating is mostly outside. Good food and a nice atmosphere.

The restaurant at the Pier House is waterfront. Same sundown view as Mallory. A few outdoor tables with beach a step away. Definitely a fine KW setting with white table cloths.

If you are up for a little drive, Mangrove Mamas at MM 21 is uniquely set in the mangrove trees. Also fine food with a great island motif.

If you want unusual, try BLUE HEAVEN.

That was the single most wonderfully, memorable meal I had the whole week in Key West. That is based on the supersonic drinks we had, the outside dining atmosphere, the live music,the roosters under the table pecking at our legs and the delicious food.

My husband and I enjoyed Micheal's very much. Seven Fish was also great. We were there in June on our honeymoon.

We really enjoyed Mangoes right on Duval - great food and nice atmosphere.

All of the above are good recommendations, but I'm a little concerned by the words "picky" and "fancy."

My vote, under the circumstances, would go to A&B Lobster House. It's a beautiful restaurant with a beautiful view which serves very good food.

Seven Fish perhaps has the best meals but the decor is a little lacking (plus it's real small inside).

Blue Heaven is a Key West must-do, but it's really, um, rustic.

I have refused to go back to Louie's. That's a personal thing, but it does have a great setting.

I think the nicest restaurant in Key West is at the Marquesa hotel on Simonton, just off of Duval. I also like Mangoes patio (great bar too).

Pepe's is godd too - great food though not as 'nice'as the Marquesa, and Kelly's has a magical courtyard patio though it isn't fancy.

Will you have a car? "Unusual" could be Little Palm Island, a private island resort (serves dinner to guests not there for overnight as well as those who are), which is a short, private boat ride out from Little Torch Island, about forty minutes north of KW. Their website will provide details and perhaps a sample menu.

We always to to Louie's Backyard. The food really is good and the setting is very nice. Louie's is also good for lunch.

For either of the above reservations are a must.