The other night a friend and I were having a conversation and for some reason, one of us mentioned Key Lime pie. We agreed that Key Lime pie is the best of pies. Better than apple, pumpkin, or pecan. I’ve always assumed that Key West must be home to the best Key Lime pie because, duh, they both have the word Key in them. It’s so obvious that it couldn’t be coincidental, right? (Me nodding my head because I know that you agreed with me.) Being me though, I’m not going to settle for that. I’m going to go to Key West this weekto “research” Key Lime pie. First though, I’ll give .you a little Key Lime Pie history. Then I’ll give you my contestants for my trip there this week.
Key lime pie originated in Key West, Florida, in the late 19th century. (That just blows me away. The late 19th century means it was created in the 1800’s.) I’m going to start a rumor now that the revolutionary war in the late 1700’s for our countries freedom from England was just actually a battle to see who would get to keep the territory that had all the Key Lime pies. The first Key Lime pies were created by local “conchs”, or sponge fisherman who combined key lime juice, egg yolks, egg yolks, and sweetened condensed milk. It was a “no-bake” creation born of necessity, as the acid in the lime juice cooked the eggs, providing a nutritious dessert without refrigeration.
I’ve got to say, that green Key Lime pie is a little off-putting. So, as my friend and I talked about our love for key lime pie, I remembered that I’m off work this week and have no other obligations. I checked my Delta Skymiles, looked at flights and found that I have enough SkyMiles to fly roundtrip free to Key West. So…tomorrow morning I’m flying to Key West and I am going to eat a lot of Key Lime pie just so I can tell you where to get the best piece of Key Lime pie in the world.
Here are the contestants that I plan on visiting:
Blue Heaven: Famous for their “mile high meringue.”
Kermits Key Lime: I like the sound of this one. You can’t go wrong by adding a Muppet to your business’ name. Apparently their Key Lime pie is served as chocolate covered frozen slices! And their motto is “it’s Pie-O’Clock Somewhere”.
Moon Dog Cafe: Named after my college roomate, shout out to Moon Dog Bill! The Moon Dog Cafe has previously won the Key Lime crown. The cafe is known for it’s tangy flavor. I love tangy Key Lime. Without that, who cares?
Key Lime Bakery: They are known for their unique coconut Key Lime pie. I can’t wait to try that one!
El Meson de Pepe: With a name like this, it’s got to be great Key Lime pie! It’s a Cuban restaurant that’s also known for mojitos and live salsa music. This is my kind of place.
Pepe’s Cafe: Pepe’s is known as the “Oldest Eating House in The Keys.” President Harry Truman was known to visit here as often as possible.
The Lobster Shack Key West: In addition to making a kick a## Key Lime pie, The Lobster Shack is also known for a fantastic Lobster Roll.
Mangrove Mamas: They were originally constructed as a rail stop and residence for station agents working for Flagler’s “overseas railroad” in the early 1900’s. In addition to their reknowned Key Lime Pie, they also bring in the evening crowds with lots of live music.
Banana Cafe: In addition to one of the islands best Key Lime Pie, they are open for breakfast, lunch and dinner! I’m definitely heading here for breakfast.
That’s it folks. My nine contenders for The Phil Factor best Key Lime pie in the world. I’ll be having three pieces of Key Lime pie in Key West Wednesday, Thursday and Friday this week. Hmm… is Key Lime pie poisoning a thing?
Follow me at PhilliversTravels on IG to see my posts throughout the ordeal. Have a great Tuesday! See you tomorrow. Thanks for reading! ~Phil
