Savoring the Florida Keys: My Unforgettable Meal at Mrs. Mac’s Kitchen in Key Largo
If you find yourself cruising down the scenic Overseas Highway, making your way through the Florida Keys, one stop that should absolutely be on your itinerary is Mrs. Mac’s Kitchen in Key Largo. Known for its legendary food, quirky décor, and a history as rich as its famous Key Lime Pie, Mrs. Mac’s Kitchen is more than just a restaurant—it’s a piece of Keys history.
On my recent trip to the Keys, I had the chance to visit this beloved eatery, and let me tell you, it was everything I hoped for and more. After a morning spent swimming with dolphins in the Upper Keys, I was ready to indulge in some of the best local seafood. And where better to do that than at a restaurant that’s been serving up fresh, flavorful dishes since the 1970s?
The History of Mrs. Mac’s Kitchen
Before diving into the delicious details of my meal, I have to talk about the history of Mrs. Mac’s Kitchen, because that’s part of what makes this place so special.
The restaurant was founded in 1976 by Jeff MacFarland and was named after his mother, Mrs. Mac, whose home-cooked recipes inspired the menu. What started as a small, locals-only joint quickly grew into a must-visit dining destination for both travelers and Florida Keys residents.
Mrs. Mac’s Kitchen became famous for its laid-back atmosphere, family-friendly service, and, of course, amazing food. Over the years, it gained a reputation as one of the best places to eat in the Keys, earning accolades and even making its way into travel magazines.
Today, there are actually two locations: the original Mrs. Mac’s Kitchen, which still has a cozy, mom-and-pop feel, and Mrs. Mac’s Kitchen II, which is slightly larger but serves the same great food. Whether you’re visiting for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, it’s a place that instantly feels like home.
Mrs Mac’s – Tasty Food for Many Years
My Meal at Mrs. Mac’s Kitchen
After a long morning in the sun, I was absolutely starving, and the menu at Mrs. Mac’s Kitchen made it nearly impossible to choose. From fresh seafood to classic American comfort food, there was something for everyone.
I finally settled on two dishes: the Lobster Bisque and the Fish Tacos—two local favorites that I had heard rave reviews about.
Lobster Bisque: A Creamy, Flavorful Start
I started with a bowl of Lobster Bisque, and from the very first spoonful, I knew I had made the right choice. This bisque was rich, velvety, and packed with chunks of fresh Florida lobster. The broth had the perfect balance of buttery smoothness and a deep seafood flavor, with just a hint of sherry to bring it all together.
Unlike some bisques that can be overly thick or too salty, this one was perfectly balanced, and it was obvious that it had been made from scratch. Paired with the restaurant’s famous homemade garlic toast, it was an incredible way to start the meal.
Yummy Lobster Bisque
Fish Tacos: A Fresh Taste of the Keys
For my main course, I went with the Fish Tacos, which are a local favorite at Mrs. Mac’s. The fish—perfectly blackened mahi-mahi—was light, flaky, and full of smoky, seasoned goodness. The tacos came loaded with fresh toppings, including crisp cabbage, tangy pico de gallo, and a creamy cilantro-lime sauce that tied everything together beautifully.
Served with a side of black beans and rice, this dish truly felt like a taste of the Keys—fresh, flavorful, and packed with local ingredients.
A Must-Try: The Famous Key Lime Pie
Of course, no visit to Mrs. Mac’s Kitchen would be complete without trying their famous Key Lime Pie. This isn’t just any Key Lime Pie—it’s won multiple awards and has been recognized as one of the best in Florida.
The pie had the perfect balance of sweet and tart, with a creamy, tangy lime filling and a thick Graham cracker crust that added just the right amount of crunch. It was topped with a generous dollop of fresh whipped cream, making each bite absolute perfection.
If you’ve never had authentic Key Lime Pie, this is the place to try it. Unlike overly sweet, artificial versions you might find elsewhere, Mrs. Mac’s keeps it classic, using fresh Key limes for that distinct citrusy zing.
Spicy and Flavorful Fish Tacos
Other Local Favorites
While I only had room for two dishes, I noticed that Mrs. Mac’s Kitchen has plenty of other local specialties that are beloved by both tourists and locals alike. Some of the most popular dishes include:
- Conch Fritters – A true Keys classic, these deep-fried bites are crispy on the outside and filled with tender conch meat.
- Grouper Sandwich – Fresh, locally caught grouper served on a toasted bun with lettuce, tomato, and a side of tartar sauce.
- Cracked Conch – Lightly battered and fried conch, a Caribbean-inspired dish that’s a must-try.
- Shrimp and Grits – A southern staple with a Florida twist, made with fresh-caught shrimp and creamy, cheesy grits.
If I had more time (and a bigger appetite), I definitely would have tried more!
Swimming with Dolphins in Islamorada
Before my visit to Mrs. Mac’s Kitchen, I had one of the most incredible experiences of my life—swim with dolphins Key Largo Area in the next island over, Islamorada. Just a short drive from Key Largo, Islamorada is home to theater-style marine parks where visitors can interact with these intelligent, playful creatures.
I chose to visit Theater of the Sea, where I got to swim and play with a bottlenose dolphin in a natural lagoon. The trainers were fantastic, teaching me all about dolphin behavior and conservation efforts. The best part? Getting a dolphin kiss and doing a belly ride across the water—it was truly unforgettable.
There’s something magical about being in the water with such amazing animals, and it made my trip to the Florida Keys even more special.
Final Thoughts: A Meal to Remember
My visit to Mrs. Mac’s Kitchen was the perfect way to end a perfect day in the Florida Keys. From the rich, comforting Lobster Bisque to the fresh and flavorful Fish Tacos, every bite was an absolute delight. And, of course, the Key Lime Pie was the perfect sweet ending to an already incredible meal.
If you ever find yourself in Key Largo, Mrs. Mac’s Kitchen is a must-visit. Whether you’re a seafood lover, a fan of classic comfort food, or just looking for a place with great vibes and even better flavors, this legendary restaurant won’t disappoint.
So next time you’re in the Keys, make sure to stop in for a meal—and don’t forget to save room for pie!
Mrs Mac’s Own Hot Sauce
