DUVAL STREET. Alice Weingarten's eponymous restaurant is a gem in the culinary crown of Key West. The menu features only the freshest ingredients combined in extraordinary combinations and served in a brightly-colored tropical setting. This combination proves the accuracy of her slogan: "Where Fabulous Food and Fun Times Meet." Menu favorites at brunch and lunch range from eggs benedict to cold meat loaf sandwich; dinner, meanwhile, wows with dishes like macadamia coconut nut crusted shrimp and grilled center-cut pork chop stuffed with smoked gouda and sun-dried tomates. Make sure to have reservations, and come hungry.

KEY WEST. Alonzo's serves Key West's largest selection of oysters. Cold and warm water varieties are available raw, baked or fried in batter. Or try the shrimp steamed in beer, Old Bay spices and garlic. The house clam chili is a thick stew of clams, potatoes and white beans. The lobster cakes are another favorite. They are served with mashed potatoes, sausage gravy and roasted corn salsa. If you feel like dressing up for dinner, ask to be seated upstairs ­ the lower dining room is more casual. Smart-casual attire. Reservations accepted.

Dining in this historic home ­ built by a sea captain in 1884 ­ is a unique experience. Sit indoors or outside on the verandah. The second story looks down onto the bustle of Duval Street. Fresh fish and seafood are the order of the day here. Try the conch steak or the very rare seared tuna crusted with peppercorns. The garlic-herb pasta topped with gulf shrimp comes well recommended. Though it doesn't come from the sea, the artichoke stuffed with fresh herbs and garlic is a favorite appetizer. Smart-casual attire. Reservations suggested.

This spot is popular with locals, tourists, kids, vegetarians.... and the list goes on. EVERYONE loves Blue Heaven. Some people come to see where Hemingway once refereed boxing matches, and others to see the free-range chickens prowling around. Those in the know come here for the food. Breakfast and Sunday brunch feature fresh-baked breads, seafood benedict, fruit-topped pancakes and homemade granola. For lunch or dinner try a hearty vegetarian stew made with local produce or the freshly made curried soup. A daily fresh catch is available, as is delicious jerk chicken. Casual. Reservations not accepted.

KEY WEST. If you crave an elegant meal away from the usual tourist hustle and bustle, then this restaurant is a sure bet. The menu changes nightly ­ the chef presents a dozen exquisitely planned selections. A frequent offering is the house specialty, seared yellow fin tuna dusted with peppercorns. The sea scallops in Thai basil sauce with black Thai rice is another favorite. Meat eaters will savor the rack of lamb with rosemary and pine nuts, served with a side of creamy polenta. All of the desserts and breads are baked fresh daily. This spot offers one of the most comprehensive wine lists to be found in Key West. Smart-casual to business-dressy. Reservations essential.