Pepe’s Cafe

When the search for a perfect lunch spot leaves you overwhelmed, trust the classics: Pepe’s Key West, at 806 Caroline Street, is the unequivocal “must-visit.” The moment you arrive, you’re impressed by the atmosphere — cozy, clean, and relaxed. They’re just far enough from the hustle and bustle to let you unwind; the dining room is very quaint, the outdoor bar and dining area are perfect for taking in fresh Florida air, and the service is thought out and on point. Plenty of parking sits across the street in the large public parking lot, and there’s a nice small gift shop on the premises for the way out.

The lunch menu is small, but it has everything you need. Start with the Tomato and Bleu Cheese soup of the day, which was simply incredible. For the main course, don’t miss the sandwiches: the Patty Melt was awesome — finger-licking, no kidding — and the Grilled Cheese with Bacon is another finger-licking delight. Prioritize the happy hour, every day from 4 to 6 PM (as of our review), featuring half-priced oysters, baked or raw, $6 fresh-squeezed margaritas, and much more. This was our first visit, at lunch — the excellent food and laid-back vibe already have us coming back for dinner, no doubt.