The Dining Room is three miles offshore on privately owned Little Palm Island. Fortunately they accept reservations from non-residents and guests when seating is available. It’s the perfect respite from raucous Key West crowds for a quiet, romantic dinner on the beach. Afterwards, enjoy a fantastic, unobstructed view of the sunset.
The Ferry and Monkey Hut
Arrive in style on the ferry, a 34 foot handcrafted wooden water limousine. It’s a replica of a 1920’s day boat and sets the tone for the evening with a leisurely ride.
Upon arrival at the dock, you’re led to the Monkey Hut for cocktails and relaxing “attitude adjustment” before dinner. Overlooking the Atlantic Ocean beyond the beach with with so few fellow diners redefines the meaning of calm.
Dinner at The Dining Room on the Beach
When the appointed time arrived, our server Claire led us to our beachfront table only a few feet from the gentle surf. We enjoyed Goldilocks weather with warm temperatures and a light breeze as we began dinner by Chef Ali Monge.
What better choice than fresh atlantic oysters to begin a romantic dinner evening?
A surprise for the table is a shareable golden berry burrata on sourdough with aged balsamic.
The soup course is cauliflower bisque with shaved black truffle, well seasoned with amazing flavor.
A refreshing strawberry lime sorbet amuse bouche re-set our palates for more.
Falling off the bone short-rib on cheddar grits with broccolini, roasted red bell pepper and truffled red wine aus jus.
Papas bravas with a spicy aioli is crispy on the outside and unbelievably creamy on the inside!
Well seasoned haricot vert with chili and garlic for the table.
Perfectly cooked yellowtail snapper on leek and saffron puree with scorched cherry tomato, zucchini and caviar beurre blanc. Add a side of green beans and papas bravas for a well rounded main.
Two satisfied diners with the monkey hut in the background.
Sunset and Evening Overlooking the Beach
Dessert at the Monkey Hut
Following dinner on the beach we retired to the monkey hut for sweets and a some mellow piano music.
Farewell to Little Palm Island
A final few photos of a memorable evening, never to be forgotten.
