Two miles off route 1 on the bay side of Big Pine Key, somewhere around mile marker 28, you will find the No Name Pub, the oldest bar on Big Pine Key. Built in 1936, the No Name Pub has a long history. Originally a general store, the business expanded into an upstairs brothel in the late 1930’s. By the 1940’s, the brothel closed and a bait and tackle shop was added to the general store. The late 1950’s brought a restaurant addition and the No Name Pub was born.
A typical “Dive” bar is what you will think as your car meanders to this establishment. What brings the locals, and tourist from all walks of life is the quality of food, good drinks, lots of fun, and the chance to hang a dollar bill on the cluttered walls. Since the mid 1980’s, patrons have been writing names, notes, or any thing else they can think of on dollar bills and staple them to the walls.
The pizza is world famous, the fried shrimp basket is fabulous, and the grouper sandwich is awesome. On my many visits to this fun filled bar, I’ve always had one of the three dishes listed above. Our visits to the keys would not be complete without a visit to the “No Name Pub”. You immediately feel welcome and can tell that everyone is having a good time.
Once you find this hidden treasure, be prepared to sit and relax outside while waiting for a table. On most nights during the high season, you can expect up to an hour wait. But it is worth every minute. Come to the No Name Pub and experience the Keys the way they were years ago.
No Name Pub
Big Pine Key, Florida
1-305-872-9115
www.nonamepub.com