Unearth The Voyage
Key West is practically a pilgrimage for Key lime pie lovers, and you are in for a seriously tart treat. From iconic counters to tiny storefronts, each slice tells a story of sun, citrus, and buttery crumble. You will find classic custards, coconut twists, and even chocolate dipped sticks that hit like island magic. Bring an appetite, because one forkful will not be enough.
1. Kermit’s Key Lime Pie Shop – Elizabeth Street
This is the slice friends beg you to try first. The custard lands bright and tart, balanced by a rich, buttery graham crust that barely crumbles under your fork. Every bite tastes like sunshine after a salty sea breeze.
Grab a seat, let the citrus perfume rise, and watch locals breeze in for their usual. You will swear the lime flavor lingers all afternoon. Bring someone to share, then refuse to split the last bite.
2. Kermit’s Key Lime Pie Shop – 335F Duval Street
Same legendary pie, different vibe. On Duval, the energy turns each slice into a street side celebration. The custard pops with lime, the crust is buttery and crisp, and the chill on the pie makes flavors sing.
Some locals swear this location hits harder after a sun soaked stroll. You will wander in for one slice, then consider a whole pie for later. Napkins ready, smiles instant.
3. Key West Key Lime Pie Co.
Here you can taste the tradition and learn it too. The pies go big on real key lime juice, yielding a custard that is tart, creamy, and clean. It feels handcrafted because it is.
Sign up for a pie making class and you will take home crust skills and custard confidence. You will also take home an extra slice, obviously. This is a stop that anchors your Key West dessert tour.
4. Limes and Pies – Duval Street
Newer, smaller, and very focused, this spot delivers a bright, precise lime profile. The texture leans velvety, with a crust that crunches gently then melts away. It feels like a minimalist take on a classic.
If you want something a bit different without losing the roots, you will love it. Grab a mini to sample, then commit to a full slice. The Duval buzz outside only sharpens the citrus zip.
5. SOUTHERNMOST KEY LIME SHOP – Duval Street
Tucked near the southern end of Duval, this charmer rewards the walk with bright, dependable slices. The custard is tart in a friendly way, and the crust holds its crunch. It tastes like vacation distilled.
You will find souvenirs, but the pie is what you remember. Take your slice outside, feel the ocean air, and let the lime sparkle. It is a simple, happy stop on any pie quest.
6. Key Lime Pie Bakery
This spot leans classic in all the right ways. Expect a silky, tart custard that never tastes too sweet, tucked into a buttery graham crust with the perfect sandy crumble. It is a reliable, locals love it, kind of slice.
You will taste balance in every forkful. Nothing fussy, just clean lime, creamy texture, and a crust that supports without stealing the show. Grab a slice, then grab another for a beach walk.
7. Blue Heaven
The meringue is sky high, toasted and fluffy like a Key West daydream. Underneath lies a tart custard that holds its own, keeping the sweetness in check. The crust is sturdy and golden.
You will order it for the spectacle and finish it for the balance. Snap your photos, then get serious with your fork. It is a classic that plays big without losing soul.
8. The Cafe
Vegan pie lovers, this is your moment. The filling leans citrus forward with a silken plant based creaminess, while the crust offers a gentle crunch. No dairy, but all the satisfaction.
You will not miss a thing, especially topped with coconut whip and lime zest. It is proof that Key lime magic crosses dietary lines. Order confidently and share bites with the skeptics at your table.
9. Mattheessen’s
Go here when you want extra indulgence. The crust runs thicker for satisfying crunch, and the chocolate dipped versions feel like island decadence on a stick. The custard stays tart enough to cut through richness.
You will probably plan on one slice and end up with a frozen bar too. No regrets. It is messy, happy, and absolutely Key West in spirit.
10. Thai Island
Expect a coconut forward twist that still honors the lime. The custard has a lighter, silkier texture thanks to coconut milk, and the toasted coconut garnish sings. It is like a tropical duet in every bite.
You will appreciate how the citrus brightens the creamy base without heavy dairy. Sit by the water, fork in hand, and let the island breeze finish the flavor. Different, delightful, memorable.
11. Matt’s Stock Island Kitchen & Bar
Refined and fresh, this pie comes dressed with berries that pop against the lime. The custard leans balanced, the crust precise, and the plating feels special occasion. It is the slice you order when dinner matters.
You will taste finesse without losing that signature tang. The berries add brightness and texture, making every forkful layered. Save room and savor slowly.
12. The Stoned Crab
This is classic pie with playful glaze options that add a glossy citrus lift. The custard stays true to tart tradition, while the crust gives sturdy support. It feels seaside without being kitschy.
You will want to try the glazes side by side to find your favorite. Each drizzle nudges the lime in a new direction. It is a fun twist that keeps the heart of the dessert intact.
13. Old Town Bakery
A gingersnap crust changes everything in the best way. Warm spice meets sharp lime, and suddenly the custard feels even brighter. It is classic with a clever, cozy twist that still reads as Key West.
You will want coffee alongside and maybe a second slice to confirm your favorite bite. The texture contrast is outstanding. This is a detour worth planning your stroll around.
14. Moondog Cafe & Bakery
Plant based and gluten free, yet absolutely luscious. The almond pastry shell adds nutty crunch, while a coconut milk curd brings satiny citrus. Aquafaba meringue crowns it with toasted peaks that crackle lightly.
You will taste craft in every detail. It is inclusive baking done right, proving indulgence does not need dairy or gluten. Order for the table and convert skeptics happily.
