Fresh seafood is one of the best things about being near the ocean. When your fish has been swimming past you just a few hours ago, the flavor is better than anything you’ll ever get inland. In the Florida Keys, we have a wealth of native fish to enjoy. Here’s a look at some of the delicious fish you can sample while you’re here.
WHAT FISH ARE NATIVE TO THE FLORIDA KEYS?
With the ocean all around, it’s no surprise that there’s plenty of seafood to indulge in. Florida is home to diverse wildlife, and the fish are no exception. Here are some of the fish that are native to the region.
Grouper
This category includes several varieties of grouper, including red, black, scamp, and gag. Grouper generally has firm flesh with large flakes and is delicately flavored.
Mahi Mahi
This tasty white fish is also known as Dorado or Dolphin fish (don’t worry, this isn’t the loveable ocean mammal). The flavor is mild and faintly sweet.
Wahoo
A lean, firm, flaky fish with excellent flavor.
Red Snapper
Kids often enjoy Snapper because it doesn’t have a “fishy” flavor. It has a delicate, almost nutty taste.
Hogfish
A beloved fish in Florida, hogfish isn’t well known elsewhere, but it’s simply delicious. The flavor is delicate and adaptable to many dishes.
Triple Tail
It has a sweet, mild flavor and firm, flaky flesh. Some diners even prefer the taste of Triple Tail to the popular Grouper.
WHAT FISH ARE THE TASTIEST?
Ultimately, the best seafood is the freshest, so it’s always a good idea to opt for a native fish (with one exception– we’ll get to that in a minute).
You should choose the fish with the flavor profile you prefer. Do you like a mild, flaky fish? Stick with Mahi Mahi, Grouper, or Red Snapper. If you’re more adventurous, try Wahoo, Triple Tail, or Florida’s beloved Hogfish.
One option that we recommend that isn’t native to Florida is Lionfish. It’s found in Florida waters, so you can still have it fresh from the sea. The flesh is flaky and somewhat firm, with a buttery flavor. Lionfish is an invasive species, so people are encouraged to dine on it as much as possible to help keep the population in check. It’s an opportunity to treat yourself to a delicious fish dinner and simultaneously help out beautiful Florida Keys.
WHAT ARE SOME MEALS THAT ARE SPECIAL TO THE FLORIDA KEYS?
The unique blend of cultures in the Florida Keys has produced cuisines that make the most of local fish. You can tuck into Mahi Mahi tacos, a mouth-watering take on the popular street food. Grilled, blackened, or battered fillets are tucked in a tortilla, along with your favorite salsa and toppings.
Restaurants often serve pan-seared fillets with a wealth of flavorful additions, from bright citrus notes to earthy mushrooms. Fish also makes a delicious addition to chowders and fritters.
At Playa Largo Ocean Residences, we have four restaurants on the resort property to help you enjoy the Florida bounty of seafood. Try Sol by the Sea for classic seafood meals or Las Olas Ceviche Bar to indulge in ceviche, tapas, and sushi. La Marea marries local flavors with Mediterranean cuisine. Try Sand Bar, which specializes in drinks and tempting small bites, for a lighter nibble.
COME VISIT THE FLORIDA KEYS TODAY!
Treat yourself to a getaway that will delight the senses! The Florida Keys offers so much to explore, including the bountiful seafood. At Playa Largo Ocean Residences, we provide a home-away-from-home experience so you can relax and play. Come see us soon!
Image Credit: Tatjana Baibakova / Shutterstock
