Some Key West restaurants have offered al fresco dining for a while, but sidewalk cafes are relatively new. This expanded dining option may be budding, but it is already beloved by locals and tourists alike. Local businesses have reassured the public- sidewalk cafes aren't going anywhere any time soon.
Tables popped up on Key West's sidewalks back when the COVID-19 pandemic first broke out. Now, people are wondering how the city ever managed without them! The gorgeous weather and fresh food make it easy to enjoy dining outdoors.
At first, the program posed challenges. It was expensive and hard to manage. Now, city planners have made the program more affordable and sustainable, allowing restaurant owners to implement it permanently! It is now doing so well that the upcoming Duval Street renovations will be tailored to take sidewalk cafes into consideration. Suggestions for Duval Street's renovations have included additional landscaping, wider sidewalks, and the elimination of curbs.
Key West's culinary delights seem to taste better when enjoyed outdoors at a sidewalk cafe. If you haven't enjoyed a meal at a sidewalk cafe yet, then you should try it!
Do you have a favorite sidewalk cafe to eat at in Key West? Tell us about it in the comments!