Finding a Haven at Blue Heaven

If you go to one place in Key West, this has to be it.  

When we were recommended this place by a local bartender at the Key West Pub, we were also warned there would be a long wait, especially for brunch.  If we know that going in -- and they have cocktails -- I can prepare my husband.  (Restaurant waits are one of the only times he is impatient.)  Our friendly bartender used to host here, so we got to hear stories about Kenny Chesney and Zac Brown visiting their favorite Key West place. 

As soon as we approached the restaurant, I knew we'd be fine to wait.  Just off of Duval Street, Blue Heaven is tucked behind gates that lead into an island paradise.  Trees and plants create a canopy over the patio, bar, and outdoor stage.  Even though it was ninety plus degrees and humid, this cover provided some need relief from the unforgiving sun.  Since it was a Sunday morning, we were entertained by a local artist on the stage.  

We ordered cocktails and found a seat at the bar.  Casey got the "Goose Driver" - the best screwdriver he has every had with Grey Goose Vodka and fresh squeezed orange juice.  I chose a Bellini.  Half way through the first round, Casey didn't ever want to leave.  He was plotting and planning to eat at least one meal at Blue Heaven for the rest of our trip.  And this was even before we ordered food.

As we waited, friendly chickens and roosters waddled around patrolling the restaurant.  Seemingly unbothered by the customers, they roamed around, engaging with each other in chatter and babble.

Then, there is the food.  The waiter greeted us and explained the specials.  As soon as Casey heard Lobster Eggs Benedict with Bacon, he was sold.  I ordered my avocado omelette.  The blueberry pancakes sounded too good to pass up, so we opted to split it.  It dawned on Casey as the waiter walked away that he probably just ordered a twenty-five dollar breakfast.  It was worth every penny.  

We couldn't leave without one last drink at the bar.  Our brunch just turned into a two and a half hour ordeal.  Casey truly enjoyed soaking up the atmosphere where his fave artists as played, while soaking up some vodka, too.