Key West Cooking School

An Authentic Culinary Experience Rooted in History

chef holding dish at Key West Cooking School

A Story Told Through Food

Key West Cooking School logo

Key West’s rich history is reflected in its cuisine, shaped by Bahamian, Cuban, and Caribbean traditions. At Key West Cooking School, each meal is a glimpse into the people and cultures that have defined the island. During chef-led demonstrations, guests will watch as expert chefs prepare signature dishes while sharing the stories behind the flavors that have shaped Key West’s rich food culture.

A Front-Row Seat to Island-Inspired Cooking

This experience is designed to be as engaging as it is delicious. Inside a meticulously designed 1950s-style demonstration kitchen, guests will be immersed in an environment that blends old Key West charm with interactive storytelling. The sights, sounds, and aromas of authentic island cooking fill the space, bringing the flavors of Key West to life.

guests at Key West Cooking School

A Meal Roasted In Tradition

Guests will enjoy a multi-course meal featuring locally inspired ingredients and traditional island flavors. Whether it’s ropa vieja, Bahamian coconut stew, or fresh-caught seafood, each dish highlights the influences that have been part of Key West’s cuisine for generations.

Cuban picadillo with rice

Bar 1

After the meal, guests can visit Bar 1, located inside a landmark Key West building with deep historic roots. Once a Navy sail-making workshop, today it serves as a cocktail bar that blends heritage with handcrafted drinks. The bar itself, built from salvaged wood planks dating back to 1856, provides a one-of-a-kind setting for sipping expertly mixed cocktails.

For those looking to enhance their visit, Bar 1 offers a Rum Cocktail Masterclass, where guests will:

  • Master the art of cocktail-making with guidance from expert bartenders.
  • Craft two signature cocktails and sample three additional handcrafted drinks.
  • Discover the history behind local rums like First Legal Rum, known for its smooth, rich taste, and Pilar Dark Rum, prized for its deep, spiced complexity.
guest being served cocktail at Key West Cooking School

An Experience That Blends Flavor and Storytelling

At Key West Cooking School, food is more than just a meal. It carries history, preserves traditions, and reflects the diverse cultures that have shaped the island. From the first ingredient to the final sip, every moment invites guests to explore the flavors, stories, and heritage that make Key West’s culinary scene so unique.