Unearth The Voyage
You came for beaches and sunshine, but Florida’s sweetest treasure is a creamy, tangy slice that sparks instant cravings. This guide zeroes in on iconic shops and beloved eateries where the crust is buttery, the filling sings with real key limes, and the whipped topping feels like a vacation. Expect classic slices, frozen-on-a-stick treats, and bold twists that still honor tradition. Ready to plan a pie trail that tastes like pure Florida?
1. Kermit’s Key Lime Pie Shop – Key West
At Kermit’s, the first bite hits with bright, citrusy zing, then settles into silky, cool creaminess that keeps you chasing another forkful. You can grab slices, mini pies, or the famous pie on a stick dipped in chocolate, perfect for walking Duval Street. The crust leans buttery and crisp, framing the tart filling like a sunny postcard.
Watch staff zest real key limes, and you can taste the freshness in every slice. If you prefer restraint, the whipped topping version keeps it classic and clean. Craving drama, go for toasted meringue that adds caramel-kissed notes without drowning the lime.
Pro tip: snag a chilled slice, then stroll the waterfront. The sea breeze pairs perfectly with Kermit’s bright, happy flavors.
2. Blue Heaven – Key West
Blue Heaven serves Key West charm on a plate, starring a towering slice crowned with meringue as fluffy as tropical clouds. That height is not just showy, it melts into the tart filling and balances sweetness without stealing the spotlight. Each forkful brings bright lime, rich custard, and a crunchy graham crust.
Eating in the open-air courtyard with chickens wandering past makes the slice feel like a celebration. The vibe is breezy and laid back, perfect for lingering after brunch or a sunset bite. Order a coffee or rum drink for a playful pairing.
If meringue is your thing, this is a must. If not, scrape some off and you still get perfect citrus snap. Either way, you win.
3. Blond Giraffe Key Lime Pie Factory – Tavernier
Blond Giraffe is a delicious detour on the Overseas Highway, ideal for grabbing a slice or a chocolate-dipped pie on a stick. The filling is bright and custardy, with a tart pop that reminds you why key limes matter. Their crust crunches just enough to contrast the creamy center.
Inside, the display case brims with classic pies, coconut-laced twists, and refreshing mini tarts. There is an outdoor garden nook where you can savor a treat under palms, Florida breeze drifting by. It is casual, friendly, and built for road-trip memories.
For extra fun, try the frozen pie treat that keeps its shape in the heat. It is portable, photogenic, and wildly satisfying when the sun is blazing.
4. The Fish House – Key Largo
The Fish House proves a seafood dinner deserves a bright citrus finale. Their key lime pie is smooth and assertively tart, cutting through rich mains like yellowtail or grouper. The crust offers buttery snap, and the filling lands that classic pale yellow hue you want.
Some nights call for whipped cream, other nights for no topping at all, and both work here. You can taste real key lime juice rather than shortcuts, and the balance keeps you coming back. It is a perfect split dessert after a platter of conch fritters.
Ask for your slice chilled for maximum contrast. Then take a slow walk to the water. That salty air plus tangy pie equals peak Florida.
5. Mrs. Mac’s Kitchen (Little) – Key Largo
Mrs. Mac’s Kitchen (Little) plates a homey, nostalgia-rich version that tastes like a local secret. Expect a tart, creamy filling with a buttery graham crust that genuinely crunches. The slice arrives cold, refreshing, and perfectly portioned after mahi sandwiches or conch chowder.
The vibe is roadside diner meets Keys charm, with friendly staff who know their pies. You can add whipped cream for extra softness or keep it bare for bolder lime. Prices are fair, portions generous, and the pie disappears fast.
It is a comfortable stop when heading deeper into the Keys. Grab a slice to go for the drive. It holds up in a cooler and makes bridges and blue water taste even sweeter.
6. Pepe’s Cafe – Key West
Pepe’s Cafe feels like stepping into Key West history, and the pie tastes timeless too. The filling is citrus-forward without being harsh, and the crust stays crisp to the last bite. It is the kind of slice that works at breakfast, lunch, or late night.
Order a slice with coffee, and let the roasted notes frame the lime. Or go after oysters for a bracing contrast that somehow feels classic. The staff will steer you right on toppings and chill level.
There is nothing fussy here, just a confident, balanced recipe that respects tradition. Sit at the bar for conversation with locals and visitors. You will leave plotting a return, maybe for another slice tomorrow.
7. Key West Key Lime Pie Co. – Key West
Key West Key Lime Pie Co. leans bold with flavors that instantly deliver that signature tang. You can sample classic slices, meringue-topped beauties, and frozen bars that pack serious lime power. The crust tastes sturdy and toasty, never soggy.
Demos sometimes show how they blend fresh juice into a silky filling. It is lively, a bit theatrical, and totally fun for a group. Everything feels dialed toward maximum lime, minimal fuss.
Pick a bar for the hot walk outside or a whole pie for your rental fridge. Both travel well and turn any beach day into a celebration. If you love that lip-smacking tartness, this shop hits the mark.
8. The Florida Key Lime Pie Company – Cocoa Beach
On the Space Coast, this Cocoa Beach favorite serves slices with laser-focused lime brightness. The filling is creamy but not heavy, landing a clean finish that invites another bite. Their chocolate-dipped wedges are a playful twist that still respects the classic.
It is easy to grab a pie before the beach or after rockets launch from nearby pads. Staff are friendly and quick with samples if you are undecided. The crust holds firm even in humidity, which matters here.
Want souvenirs, too? You will find lime candies, sauces, and giftable treats that travel well. Bring a whole pie back to your stay and watch it vanish after sunset walks.
9. Yoder’s Restaurant – Sarasota
Yoder’s is famous for pies, and their key lime version shows expert crust craft. The graham base crunches with buttery warmth, supporting a bright, satiny filling. It feels a touch richer than most coastal versions, yet the lime still shines.
After fried chicken or meatloaf, this slice refreshes the palate in a satisfying way. The bakery case tempts with whole pies if you are feeding a crowd. Service is kind, pacing is relaxed, and slices are notably generous.
Ask for it well-chilled to enhance the citrus snap. Pair with coffee or sweet tea depending on your mood. You might come for the famous peanut butter pie, but the key lime steals hearts quietly.
10. Great Southern Cafe – Santa Rosa Beach
Great Southern Cafe brings a breezy 30A vibe to a slice that is both tart and elegant. The filling is custard-smooth with a citrus pop that feels beach fresh. Crust texture lands just right, giving each bite structure without heaviness.
After Grits A Ya Ya or fresh Gulf fish, the pie becomes the refreshing final note. The dining room is sunny and relaxed, perfect for lingering. Ask for extra lime zest if you like a sharper edge.
Outdoor seating pairs perfectly with a cold slice and coastal breeze. It is vacation energy in dessert form. You will be daydreaming about this pie long after your towel dries.
11. Columbia Restaurant – Tampa
Columbia layers Old Florida elegance onto a focused key lime profile. The slice arrives neat, balanced, and pleasantly tart, with a graham crust that behaves perfectly. It is a great finish after 1905 Salad and ropa vieja.
The historic setting adds romance, but the pie remains straightforward and faithful to tradition. You can request whipped cream if you want, though it does not need it. Service is polished, portions fair, and pacing unhurried.
Make a reservation, savor the show of the dining room, then land on citrus. The brightness resets your palate and sends you out refreshed. It is proof that classic restaurants can still deliver thrilling desserts.
12. Blue Dog Bar & Grill – Matlacha
Blue Dog plates a no-nonsense slice that tastes like sunshine over the water. The filling pops with tart lime, and the crust has a sturdy snap that stays crisp. It is particularly good after fried shrimp or blackened fish.
Matlacha’s colorful art shacks and mangrove views set a playful stage for dessert. Sit outside if the breeze cooperates and let the slice cool you down. Staff are upbeat and quick with refills.
Order it cold, bring a friend, and split a second slice if you must. The citrus finish feels exactly right with salty air. It is a small-town gem that understands what key lime pie should be.
13. Uncle Ernie’s – Panama City
Uncle Ernie’s serves sweeping bay views and a slice that holds its own. The pie leans bright and creamy, with a graham crust that crunches even on humid nights. It pairs beautifully with Gulf seafood and sunset colors.
There is an easygoing pace here, the kind that turns dessert into an occasion. Ask for patio seating and a chilled fork for extra refreshment. The lime flavor stands up, never cloying, never shy.
Grab coffee or a light cocktail, then linger for the last glow over the water. This slice becomes a memory tied to sea breeze and laughter. It is Panama City comfort, citrus-forward and genuinely satisfying.
14. Joe’s Stone Crab – Miami Beach
Joe’s is famous for claws, but the key lime pie is a star in its own right. Expect a polished, tart filling with perfect texture, neither gelatinous nor too rich. The crust is classic and steady, supporting clean, focused citrus.
After stone crabs with mustard sauce, the pie resets your palate beautifully. Service is brisk yet gracious, and slices arrive chilled to the ideal temperature. You will want every last crumb.
It is a taste of Miami Beach history with a zingy finish. Pair with coffee or a bubbly toast to make it celebratory. Leaving without dessert feels like skipping a chapter of the story.
15. Fireman Derek’s Bake Shop – Miami
Fireman Derek’s brings bakery swagger to a seriously tart slice that thrills citrus lovers. The filling is lush but not heavy, and the crust has confident crunch. Portions are generous, so plan to share or lean in fully.
Inside, the case brims with decadent pies, yet the key lime cuts through everything with clarity. Toppings are optional, but a dollop of whipped cream smooths the edges nicely. The staff keeps lines moving, even during rushes.
Grab a whole pie for gatherings or a single slice for a midday pick-me-up. It travels well across Miami heat if you keep it cool. Bright, bold, and addictive, this pie earns its fan base fast.
