Barnacle Barney’s Tiki Bar & Grill – Captain’s Platter & Iconic Keys Sunset Cocktails

Alright, SoFloFoodies, gather ’round! We’re back in the Florida Keys, sun-kissed and ready to dive headfirst into the culinary goodness that makes this place legendary. And where did our taste buds lead us? Back to the vibrant, laid-back paradise that is Barnacle Barney’s Tiki Bar & Grill at 1688 Overseas Hwy in Marathon! This is a Keys institution, known for sunset cocktails and soaking up that quintessential tiki vibe. It offers bluegreen-level quality without breaking the bank, all set by the marina and boat docks.

We’ve sung Barney’s praises before, especially for the epic burgers like the Black and Bluegreen. But this visit? Barney’s upped its game! We kicked things off with a half-pound of peel-and-eat shrimp. Forget those rubbery imposters! These were plump, juicy, perfectly seasoned, and vanished faster than a tourist’s suntan.

Then, the main event! Doris and I went for the Captain’s Platter Fry. Picture this: perfectly blackened grouper, succulent fried shrimp, crispy conch fritters, and a medley of grilled vegetables. Every single bite was a testament to fresh ingredients and masterful cooking. The grouper was flaky, the shrimp were bursting with flavor, and the fritters were top-notch quality. Everything was delicious. Even our drinks, a Moscow Mule and a Jack & Coke, were on point as usual.

The atmosphere at Barney’s is pure magic. You get to enjoy your meal by the marina in a quaint location just beyond the main pool with the boat docks as your backdrop. This isn’t just a restaurant; it’s a Key’s institution steeped in local lore. The marina, buzzing with the sounds of the sea and the chatter of boaters, adds to the unique atmosphere that makes Barney’s a must-visit. The food is fantastic, the views are stunning, and the ambiance is pure relaxation. They even offer a “Hook and Cook” service for all you fishermen out there! Our next visit is already planned—we’re eyeing that Boneless Ribeye Platter and, of course, the Grouper Platter again.

The ultimate FOMO moment comes from delaying your visit and missing out on the succulent, perfectly seasoned peel-and-eat shrimp and the Captain’s Platter Fry, all while enjoying the stunning sunset view from the iconic marina-side tiki bar.

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