Much of our history here in Key West revolves around our setting in the Gulf of Mexico, and a good deal of our culture springs from the same source. The sea is part of our daily life – you can hear it, you can see the waves break on sandy beaches, and best of all, you can even taste it!
Historically, sponges were the primary fishing industry here in Key West; we were even considered the sponge capital of the country in the early 1900’s. Then, in 1949, huge beds of pink shrimp were discovered just off the Dry Tortugas, and suddenly the shrimp industry took off. So many shrimp were caught at this time – and so much money was made – that it was called “The Pink Gold Rush.”
Today, island restaurants and markets are stocked with supplies of local Key West pink shrimp, conch, hogfish, yellowtail snapper, grouper, mahi-mahi, wahoo, cobia, stone crab and lobster in season. Many of our traditional dishes have Cuban roots, and spicy conch chowder, chock full of garlic, onions, green peppers, tomatoes and potatoes, is a complete meal in a bowl.
Why not take the opportunity to try out a little of everything our local waters have to offer? On January 18, the 8th Annual Florida Keys Seafood Festival will be held at Bayview Park at the intersection of Truman and Jose Marti Drive from 11:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. A fantastic menu built around our native seafood will be available, accompanied by live entertainment and children’s activities. Admission is free, and paid parking will be available at the Horace O’Bryant Middle School, adjacent to the park.
Any day is a great day to get out and enjoy all that we have to offer here in Key West. It truly is America’s tropical paradise. Why not join in the fun? I have been selling Key West real estate for over 30 years to people from all over the world, and my free relocation packet and personalized, professional service can guide you to your perfect Key West home. Contact me today by phone at Margarita Villoch, 305-304-8505, by email at margarita@isellkw.com, or on the web at www.isellkw.com, and come enjoy fresh, tropical seafood year-round!
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