Louie's Backyard, located at 700 Waddell Ave, Key West, FL, is a culinary landmark with a rich history and a reputation for fine dining. Established in 1971 when Louie Signorelli's oceanfront Victorian home was converted into a restaurant, it initially seated only 12 guests and employed a single waiter. The restaurant underwent a significant transformation in 1983 under the new ownership of Phil and Pat Tenney. They renovated the building, preserving its historical integrity, which led to its inclusion in the National Register of Historic Places. Today, Louie's Backyard is managed by Phil Tenney and his son Jed, continuing the establishment's long-standing traditions and commitment to excellence.
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Chef Doug Shook: With 30 years at Louie's Backyard, Chef Doug Shook is the mastermind behind its innovative cuisine. He brings global culinary influences, changing the menu four to five times annually. His dedication to quality and creativity is evident in every dish, from the perfect blend of calamondin juice in a yellowtail snapper to the creation of new salad varieties.
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Cuisine: The restaurant prides itself on dishes made to order, emphasizing fresh, local seafood like grouper, hogfish, snapper, swordfish, and the local Key West "pinks" shrimp. They also serve freshly caught Florida Keys lobster, alongside other offerings such as fine steaks, heirloom pork, double lamb chops, and free-range chicken.
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Signature Dishes: The dinner menu at Louie’s Backyard includes a variety of enticing entrees. Options range from Crumb Crusted King Salmon with Zucchini-Couscous Salad and Tzatziki, Seared Sesame Crusted Tuna with Red Miso Broth, to Grilled Swordfish, Double Lamb Chops, and Grilled Filet of Beef. Each dish is priced around $42 to $48, showcasing the premium quality and craftsmanship in each offering.
Louie's Backyard has evolved from a small dining establishment into a gourmand's playground, offering a cafe-style dining experience against an oceanfront backdrop. It's not just a restaurant; it's a Key West tradition, blending culinary artistry with historical charm.
Louie's Backyard, Key West "Oh, if only for a backyard as beautiful as the spectacular oceanfront setting offered by this Caribbean-American restaurant, Key West's Most Popular destination, where you can dine on incredible cuisine served by a professional staff on either the fabulous multilevel deck or in the elegant dining room; it's many folks' idea of heaven…" – Zagat
