Best Places for Key Lime Pie in the Florida Keys

— -- Every destination has an iconic dish that travelers know is a must-try when visiting the area. New York has its pizza, Philadelphia has its cheesesteaks and Key West has its famous Key lime pie.

Named for the small Key limes that were once abundant in the Florida Keys, Key lime pie can be found at restaurants across the Keys, all of which claim to serve the very best you’ll find.

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State historians believe that the invention of sweetened condensed milk in 1856 led to the very first Key lime pie concoctions. A cook named Aunt Sally based out of Key West is often said to have made the first Key lime pie sometime in the 1800s, using a recipe created by local spongers as her guide.

Want to be “Keyed” into the best Key lime pies in the Florida Keys? Visit one of these six places, and you’re guaranteed happiness with every bite.

Key Lime Pie Company

The pies at the nationally award-winning Key Lime Pie Company are made fresh daily using natural ingredients, real Key lime juice, and handmade graham cracker crust. The Key lime pie here was named the Nation’s Best Pie by the American Pie Council.

Kermit’s Key West Lime Shoppe

Said to be among the best on the island, Kermit’s Key West Lime Shoppe is located on the shopper’s haven of Duval Street in Key West. Made with all-natural ingredients and a delicious crust, this pie can also be served frozen, dipped in Belgian chocolate, and put on a stick.

Porky’s Bayside Barbecue

This Marathon-based shop takes its Key lime pies to the next level. At Porky’s, you’ll find the pies are deep-fried in oil and served with a crispy outer crust and a subtly sweet filling.

Pepe’s Café

When you visit Pepe’s (established in 1909), the oldest eatery in Key West, your Key lime pie will be served in a bowl. The pie here has a crunchy crust, a tart taste, and is served with enough whipped cream to last you a while.

The Blonde Giraffe

Here you can get another famous chocolate-dipped Key Lime pie on a stick. Not only can you get one of the most delicious slices around, but you can also watch the pies being made.

Blue Heaven

This institution sells a Key lime pie made with 100-percent graham cracker crust and a light and airy filling, all piled high with fresh meringue.