Alright, food fanatics! Doris and I were feeling that insatiable SoFlo craving, and our intel led us to a legend: Herbie’s Bar & Chowder House in Marathon. Tucked away at 6350 Overseas Hwy, this long-running seafood joint practically drips with old-school charm and the laid-back Keys energy we all crave. This isn’t just a restaurant; it’s a freakin’ goldmine and the definition of a Keys classic that’s been doing it right for years.

Old-School Charm and The Perfect Brew

Herbie’s Yard itself is a vibe. Picture the salty air, the outdoor seating, the family-friendly atmosphere, and a history steeped in feeding hungry folks. While we focused on the chowder house, their tap beer selection is massive, and it includes all your favorites—a true joy for any hop-head.

But enough about the ambiance—let’s dive headfirst into the main event: the Drunken Clams! You choose your shellfish (we went clam-tastic) and your booze (we chose traditional). These clams immediately secured a spot in my top three drunken clam dishes of all time!

The sauce on those clams is pure, unadulterated, briny brilliance. It’s reminiscent of a Mussels Billi Bi but without the cream, allowing the ocean’s essence to truly shine. The secret weapon? A whisper of basil or tarragon that just POPS!—the finishing touch that elevates the dish from delicious to transcendental. Prepare to be amazed.

While we were blissfully slurping, our eyes caught a sign: a Guy Fieri Shoutout! Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives recently featured Herbie’s signature dish: the Chicken & Smashed Potato. This comfort food masterpiece features a perfectly juicy, crispy-skinned chicken, flattened and expertly cooked, served atop a dreamy smashed potato.

Overall, our experience confirmed that the rumors were NOT exaggerated. Herbie’s is a testament to simple truth: sometimes, the best food comes from the places that have been doing it right for years. We’re already planning our return trip specifically for that Smashed Chicken.

The ultimate FOMO moment comes from delaying your visit and missing out on the transcendental Drunken Clams and the Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives-featured Chicken & Smashed Potato, which define this Keys classic.

Essential Details

Cuisine Old-School Seafood, Classic American, Chowder House
Address 6350 Overseas Hwy, Marathon, FL 33050
Contact Phone: 305-743-6373
The Hook Drunken Clams (briny, basil/tarragon pop), Chicken & Smashed Potato (Guy Fieri featured), huge selection of on-tap beers, and laid-back Keys charm.
Tip Enjoy the huge selection of on-tap beers. Look for the live music in the yard. Don’t forget to check out the merch. Something for everyone on the menu.