6 Best Cafes near Islamorada

“We were on our way back to Jax and stopped at our favorite breakfast/lunch spot! Once again a winner for all of us! Great food and great service!“

“3/9/25—My first night at this amazing house—GUYS, I am floored! Who owns this place? Because they have definitely been blessed by Jesus himself. One day, I need to afford not just one but many houses like this. This has to be at least a $2 million house. But anyway…

Let’s get to the real crisis at hand: my husband’s coffee addiction. He’s basically a coffee narcissist—picky, dramatic, and completely incapable of functioning without a high-quality cup. So my first mission of the day? Find a place that serves coffee early in the morning.

I Googled, and a gas station café popped up. Reviews? Terrible. Service? Questionable. Vibes? Unclear. But I thought, why not? So I started my journey, walking in the morning heat, jamming to Michael Jackson, feeling the ocean breeze on one side and the Everglades air on the other. It was a moment.

About ten minutes into my walk, I spotted the gas station I had seen yesterday. Then, I noticed a sign: "Cuban Something." Oh boy. I had already read on Google that this place was awful, but I was already there, so… I took a deep breath and went in.

I did a quick scan—sized up the employees, checked for hot food (none, just pre-packed to-go items), and finally decided to try their coffee. I ordered one beef empanada and two croquetas de jamón because, you know, when in Miami… but in Key West !😂

María took my order, and another lady made the coffee. No "good morning," no smiles, but listen—this is not a five-star restaurant. Nobody is working for tips. It’s a get-your-essentials-and-go type of place. Honestly, I respect that.

Now, let’s talk about the Spanish situation. I love practicing my Spanish, but for some reason, when I speak it here, locals think I sound Mexican. Back in my home state? They swear I sound Colombian. My accent is apparently a mystery.

Would I recommend this place? If you want quick, no-nonsense Cuban coffee and snacks, yes. If you expect customer service that will hold your hand and whisper sweet nothings into your ear? Absolutely not.

Oh, and the bathroom? Didn’t see one. But I can guess why they don’t offer it freely to travelers. If you really need to use it, just offer some money—cash makes the world go 'round, and let’s be real, you’ll probably leave it cleaner than you found it.
Also to the side of the establishment there is a seating area . Treat the birds with respect
Final verdict? It’s a gas station kind of place . This should tell all , but it’s a gas station with Cuban coffee next door . That’s good enough for me.“

“Great stop on the way back home through the Keys. Beautiful and happy place, very friendly staff and great coffee and pastries 🥐. Definitely a stop 🛑!“

“Good food, scenic location and good people.“

“Their almond croissant was amazing. I also had an iced chai tea latte. It was also very good.“

“Great food and staff. We highly recomend.“