Doc’s on Duval

Right in the center of the action at 708 Duval Street, in the building that was once the former home of Pinchers, Doc’s is a genuine escape from the tourist-fad churn of Duval. There’s a small Hideaway Bar downstairs for a quiet drink away from the crowds, a massive social bar upstairs, and an outdoor deck made for people-watching over the street — classic Key West relaxation with a professional culinary edge.

Start with the South o’ the Border Jalapeño Poppers — handmade in-house, stuffed with cream cheese, wrapped in smoky bacon — and Mary Kate’s Crab Cakes, loaded with real crab meat and very little filler, which is high praise from a chef who is tough on crab cakes. From the pit come Carolina Gold pulled pork in a tangy gold sauce and Kansas City baby back ribs glazed with honey-bourbon molasses, and the sides — smoky house-made baked beans, seasoned collard greens, honey-butter cornbread — are standouts in their own right. Save room for the Key lime pie with its towering meringue, or take it in a glass as the Key Lime Pie Martini.

Featured in our Florida Keys locals’ guide — We actually eat there.