Discover the Flavors of Key West at the Island’s Newest Culinary Adventure
June 11, 2025 • KW Concierge
KEY WEST, Fla. — If you think Key West is all about sunsets and salty air, wait until you step into the sizzling heart of its newest attraction — the Key West Cooking School. Nestled inside a beautifully restored 1856 Navy building in Old Town, this isn’t just a place to learn how to cook — it’s where food, culture, and storytelling blend into one unforgettable “dinnertainment” experience.
Led by charismatic chef-storytellers, each demonstration-style class dives into the vibrant culinary heritage of Key West — a flavorful fusion of Bahamian, Cuban, Spanish, and New England influences. From mojo roast pork to grits-n-grunts, you won’t just learn about the food — you’ll taste its history.
Classes are held Tuesday through Saturday at 11 a.m., 3 p.m., and 7 p.m., with themed menus rotating daily. Whether you’re savoring jerk chicken during “Island Indulgence” or biting into the legendary Cuban Mix on “A Taste of Havana” day, each dish is prepared with flair in a retro-style demo kitchen full of Old Key West charm — think vintage turquoise appliances, a giant sauté pan chandelier, and a replica of the iconic Strand Theater.
Guests sit at long communal tables, following along with printed recipes and soaking in tales of shipwreck salvagers, Cuban cigarmakers, and the mysterious “Aunt Sally” who may (or may not) have invented Key lime pie. And when the last spoon is set down? You walk away not just full, but inspired.
There’s even Bar 1, offering cocktail classes to toast your inner mixologist.
Perfect for foodies, families, and friends, this hands-on slice of Key West heritage offers more than just delicious dishes — it’s a crash course in island soul. Reservations are required and spots fill fast, so plan ahead at keywestcookingschool.com or call 305-294-2665.
Ready to stir up something unforgettable? Book a class, raise a glass, and let the flavors of Key West tell you their story. Because here, every bite is a journey — and every dish is a passport to paradise.
