Walking by Sarabeth’s on Simonton, you want to stop and look at the menu. The smells floating through the air entices you to look, even though you may not be ready to stop and try. My wife and I have talked about Sarabeth’s several times when visiting Key West, and on this trip, we were fortunate enough to eat at this wonderful establishment.
After meeting with a business associate and friend at his Bed and Breakfast, the recommendation for Sarabeth’s lead my wife and I around the corner for lunch. One of our best friends joined us for lunch, which made the meal that much more enjoyable. Owner, David Case greeted and welcomed us to his restaurant and sat us at one of the outside tables. Our waitress was very pleasant and she immediately served us water and iced tea.
We started our lunch with Sara’s Velvety Cream of Tomato Soup, which was one of the best soups we have ever tasted. We asked if it was possible to get the recipe, and was jokingly told that we would have to be killed once we received it. Maureen chose the Key West “Pinks” Shrimp Roll, which was poached shrimp dressed in a light lemon mayonnaise with celery hearts and fresh chives in a split topped bun, topped with sliced avocado. This entrée was accompanied by a green salad.
Our lunch guest dined on grilled fresh Dolphin served with a salad of baby lettuce, avocado, snap peas, cherry tomatoes and sliced new potatoes, dressed with citrus soy vinaigrette. I chose the same but opted for a sautéed lump Crabmeat and Key West Pink Shrimp cake served with the salad.
All three was in agreement that the meal was wonderful. Too full to each try a specialty dessert, we shared strawberry biscuit shortcake with sweet whipped cream. We could tell that the biscuit was homemade and had sugar garnished on the top, which made this dessert worth coming back for.
Sarabeth’s originated in New York in 1981, when Sarabeth and Bill Levine opened a tiny bakery-kitchen to make and sell her preserves and baked goods. The little store became an instant success with New Yorkers and it expanded to an East and West restaurant serving Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner. David had been working with Sarabeth for many years and she offered him a store at a location of his choice. He chose Key West, and the success began.
While visiting Key West, please take time to dine at Sarabeth’s. They are open for Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner and any of the meals are well worth the visit.
Sarabeth’s Restaurants
530 Simonton Street
Key West, Florida 33040