You’ve probably driven right past it a dozen times if you’ve ever done the trek down to Key West. That neon sign with the turtle wearing a chef's hat. It’s a bit of a relic, honestly. But the Green Turtle Inn on the Overseas Highway in Islamorada, FL is one of those rare spots that actually lives up to the "legendary" tag people throw around.
It isn't just a place to grab a bite. It’s a survivor.
The building sitting at Mile Marker 81.2 today isn't the original one—hurricanes tend to have a say in that—but the soul of the place hasn't budged since the 1940s. Most people think the "Green Turtle" name is just a cute Florida trope. Actually, it’s a nod to a time when turtle steaks and soup were the primary draw. Back then, Sid and Roxie Siderious (the couple who put this place on the map in 1947) actually ran a cannery nearby. They were processing hundreds of turtles a week. Kinda wild to think about now, right?
The History Nobody Talks About
Before it was the Green Turtle, it was OD King’s Rustic Inn. That was 1928. It survived the 1935 Labor Day Hurricane, which is basically a miracle considering that storm flattened almost everything else in the Upper Keys.
When Sid and Roxie took over, they turned it into a full-blown social hub. It wasn’t just a restaurant; it was the "it" spot for fishermen and travelers who needed a soft place to land after a long day on the water. They had a gift shop, they had the cannery, and they had a vibe that attracted everybody from local lobster trappers to Hollywood elite.
You’ve got to appreciate the walls in there. They’re covered in memorabilia that isn't just "junk on a wall" like you’d see at a corporate chain. It’s real history. You’ll see photos of the old cannery and snapshots of famous faces who’ve slid into these booths over the decades.
- Mickey Mantle used to hang out here.
- John Belushi and Gilda Radner were regulars back in the day.
- Legend has it Belushi even played "host" for a bit, greeting guests at the door.
Basically, if you were anyone in the 70s and 80s and you were in the Keys, you were at the Turtle.
What to Actually Order (and What to Skip)
Let's get real about the food. People come for the Turtle Chowder. It’s the signature dish. It’s meaty, savory, and has that distinct "old Florida" flavor profile. If you’re squeamish about eating turtle, they also do a killer conch chowder that’s equally iconic.
But honestly? The brunch is where it’s at lately.
The Lobster Benedict is usually the star of the show. It’s indulgent, sure, but you're on vacation. They don't skimp on the lobster, and the hollandaise is actually made right—not that powdered stuff from a bag. If you’re more into sweet stuff, the Monkey Bread or the giant cinnamon rolls are basically a requirement. They’re huge. Like, "don't plan on eating lunch" huge.
For dinner, the menu shifts into more sophisticated territory. You’ll find things like:
- Macadamia Encrusted Snapper (Classic Keys preparation).
- Bacon-Wrapped Love (Their version of meatloaf, which sounds basic but is surprisingly good).
- Shrimp and Grits (Southern style, very creamy).
One thing to keep in mind: it’s not the cheapest spot in Islamorada. You’re paying for the history and the quality. If you’re looking for a $10 burger, there are plenty of roadside stands for that. This is more of a "treat yourself" kind of afternoon.
Why It Feels Different Than Other Keys Spots
There’s a specific "Keys-casual" energy that a lot of newer places try to manufacture. They put up some driftwood, hire a guy with a steel drum, and call it a day. The Green Turtle Inn doesn't have to try.
The current owners, Bob and Mindy Rich, took over in 2004 and had to navigate the aftermath of Hurricane Wilma. They rebuilt the place but kept the original footprint and the "conch cottage" aesthetic. It feels solid. It feels like it belongs there.
You’ll notice a mix of people. You’ve got the tourists who saw it on Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives (yeah, Guy Fieri was here), but you’ve also got the locals at the bar who have been coming here since the 80s. That’s usually the sign of a good restaurant—when the people who actually live in the zip code show up.
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Logistics for Your Stop
If you're planning to visit, don't just wing it during peak season. Islamorada gets packed, especially on weekends.
- Location: 81219 Overseas Hwy, Islamorada, FL 33036.
- Parking: There’s a lot, but it fills up fast.
- Hours: They’re usually open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, but check their schedule because they sometimes close on Mondays or Tuesdays depending on the season.
- Pro Tip: If you can’t get a table, check out "The Nest." It’s their adjacent sports bar/lounge area. It’s a bit more laid back and usually has some live music or a game on.
The Bloodline Connection
For the TV buffs, Islamorada became world-famous because of the Netflix show Bloodline. While a lot of the action happened at The Moorings or Robbie’s, several scenes were filmed right here at the Green Turtle. It fits that "dark secrets in a sunny place" vibe perfectly. Even if you aren't a fan of the show, the atmosphere is undeniable. It’s moody in the best way possible.
Is It Worth the Hype?
Look, no place is perfect. Some days the service might be a little slow because, well, it’s the Keys. Life moves slower there. And yeah, the price point might surprise you if you’re expecting a greasy spoon diner.
But if you want to experience a piece of Florida history that hasn’t been sterilized by corporate interests, the Green Turtle is a must. It’s a link to the 1940s, a testament to surviving hurricanes, and it still serves a mean bowl of chowder.
Actionable Insights for Your Visit:
- Go for Brunch: The lobster eggs benedict and the cinnamon rolls are the most consistent winners on the menu.
- Look at the Walls: Spend ten minutes actually walking around and looking at the photos. It’s a free history lesson on the development of the Florida Keys.
- Check the Gift Shop: They sell their famous chowder in cans. It makes a way better souvenir than a plastic flamingo from a gas station.
- Combine Your Trip: Since you're at MM 81, you're right near the Florida Keys History & Discovery Center. Hit that up afterward to round out your history-heavy afternoon.
Don't just drive past the turtle next time. Pull over. Grab a stool. Order the soup. You’ll get it once you’re inside.