Where to Cook Your Catch in Key West: The Best “Hook & Cook” Restaurants
One of the best things about fishing in Key West is that after a great day on the water, you can take your fresh catch straight to a local restaurant, where chefs will prepare it for you! Whether you just reeled in snapper, grouper, or porgies aboard the Gulfstream IV, or landed a big one on another charter, the next step is deciding where to eat your fresh fish.
If you’re on vacation and don’t have a kitchen, don’t worry—many Key West restaurants offer “Cook Your Catch” services, also known as Hook & Cook. Here’s everything you need to know about getting your fish cleaned, where to take it, and how you can enjoy your fresh-caught meal in true Key West style.
Step 1: Get Your Fish Cleaned 🐟🔪
After your fishing trip in Key West, the first thing you’ll need to do is get your fish cleaned, filleted, and ready for cooking.
✔️ If you fished on the Gulfstream IV – The crew will clean and fillet your catch at the dock for a small fee. Just let them know how you’d like it prepped (whole, fillets, or steaks).
✔️ For private charters – Key West fishing captains will fillet your fish.
✔️ DIY option – If you prefer to clean your own fish, there are fish cleaning stations at the docks or you can ask a local seafood market for help.
🔪 Pro Tip: If you want to bring fish home, it should be vacuum-sealed or packed in ice for freshness.
Step 2: The Best Cook-Your-Catch Restaurants in Key West 🍽🔥
Many restaurants in Key West will Cook Your Catch, preparing your fish grilled, fried, blackened, sautéed, or even jerk-style. Here are the top places to take your fresh fish for an unforgettable sea-to-table meal.
🏝 Hogfish Bar & Grill (Stock Island)
📍 Location: 6810 Front St., Stock Island
🍽 Specialties: Grilled, Blackened, Fried Hogfish
💰 Cost: ~$15 per person
A local’s favorite, Hogfish Bar & Grill is famous for its laid-back atmosphere and fresh seafood. Their chefs will cook your fish any way you like and serve it with fries, coleslaw, or rice & beans.
🏝 Hurricane Hole Restaurant & Marina
📍 Location: 5130 Overseas Hwy, Key West
🍽 Specialties: Jerk-Style, Grilled, Fried, or Blackened Fish
💰 Cost: ~$15 per person
Hurricane Hole is a great spot for cooking your catch, with a relaxed waterfront setting. Try their jerk-style seasoning, or go for a classic fried or grilled preparation.
🏝 Conch Republic Seafood Company (Historic Seaport)
📍 Location: 631 Greene St, Key West
🍽 Specialties: Sautéed, Blackened, or Caribbean-Style Fish
💰 Cost: ~$16 per person
A favorite for both tourists and locals, Conch Republic Seafood Company has an authentic Key West vibe and offers delicious Caribbean-style fish preparations with tropical sides.
🏝 Dante’s Key West (Waterfront Pool Bar & Restaurant)
📍 Location: 951 Caroline St, Key West
🍽 Specialties: Blackened, Fried, or Cajun-Style Fish
💰 Cost: ~$18 per person
Dante’s offers great food and a fun atmosphere, making it a great place to enjoy your catch after a day on the water. Their Cajun-style fish is a local favorite!
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🏝 Smoked on the Water BBQ (Key West’s BBQ & Seafood Spot)
📍 Location: Historic Charter Boat Row
🍽 Specialties: Smoked, Grilled, or Blackened Fish with BBQ Twists
💰 Cost: ~$18 per person
If you’re looking for something different from the typical grilled or blackened fish, Smoked on the Water BBQ brings a unique twist to cooking your catch. They offer wood-smoked fish, barbecue-glazed fillets, and even fish tacos with house-made sauces. Their fusion of BBQ flavors with fresh Key West seafood makes for an unforgettable meal!
🔗 Visit Smoked on the Water BBQ
Step 3: Enjoy Your Fresh Catch Like a Local! 🎣🍽
After a successful day fishing in Key West, there’s nothing better than sitting down and enjoying your own fresh-caught fish, prepared to perfection.
✔ Want leftovers? – Most restaurants will box up your fish so you can enjoy it later.
✔ Bringing fish home? – Ask the crew for recommendations for easy transport.
✔ Cooking yourself? – Stop by a local market for Key West spices, fresh citrus, and tropical sides to pair with your fish.
Final Thoughts: From Hook to Table
If you’re looking for the best way to enjoy your fresh catch in Key West, take it to one of these Cook Your Catch restaurants and let the experts turn your fish into a five-star meal. Whether you prefer it grilled, blackened, jerked, or fried, there’s no better way to experience true Key West fishing culture than eating the fish you caught yourself!
🎣 Ready to catch your next meal? Book a trip on the Gulfstream IV and reel in your dinner today!