The Flaming Buoy Filet Co.

American · Seafood · Key West, FL

4.6 (1,040 · Yelp ) ·$$$ ·American · Seafood ·

About

The Flaming Buoy Filet Co. sits away from the Duval Street bustle, a local's find in Old Town. Owners Scot and Fred personally serve each table, offering light banter and detailed menu explanations. The seafood-focused menu leans American with Caribbean touches, and dishes often carry a spicy kick that justifies the 'Flaming' name. The crowd is largely gay but mixed, and the outdoor seating makes for a relaxed evening.

Dinner runs Wednesday through Monday, with hours starting at 4pm and closing between 9pm and 9:30pm depending on the day. A short wine list complements the food, and the lobster mac & cheese appetizer is a standout. Regulars appreciate the unpretentious vibe and consistent quality. If you're visiting, Blue Heaven nearby also draws a similar crowd for brunch.

The Flaming Buoy Filet Co. is located in Key West's Old Town neighborhood, just off Virginia St. It's a quieter area away from the Duval Street crowds, popular with locals and in-the-know visitors.

Features

  • Owners Scot and Fred serve you personally
  • Located off Duval Street, away from crowds
  • Lobster mac & cheese appetizer praised
  • Dishes with a spicy kick
  • Outdoor seating in Old Town

Cuisine

AmericanSeafood

Good for

Outdoor SeatingAfter Work

Practical

Mixed Gay/Straight
4.6

What people say

Rated from 1,040 reviews. 7 community ratings. View this venue on Yelp

From the community

“Good food, good service, fair wine list”

A group of five of us came for dinner based on other reviews, and we all liked our meals. Some dishes had a bit of spice, which fits the name, and the limited wine list offered some good options.

A visitor · Over a year ago

“perfect for sommeliers and those down with the cause!”

I told myself I wouldn't have wine on this trip since that's my usual thing... but then I found a spot to have some. They got me with the Tokaji. Frustrating!

A guest · Over a year ago

“Must eat here”

This place has amazing food! It's a bit off the main tourist path, so it's chill but still has trendy decor and some of the best food on the island. My partner and I dined here recently; the scallops were perfect, and the pineapple banana curry was the best I've ever had.

A recent visitor · Over a year ago

“Great date night eating”

I'm so happy I came across this restaurant. The owners are the servers and made us feel welcome with light conversation and great menu explanations. We had the lobster mac & cheese appetizer, which was tasty, and our mains were just as good. It feels more like a local spot, so tourists have to be lucky to find it off the main drag. My partner and I felt fortunate. Five stars.

A local visitor · Over a year ago

“mmmmm....filetco”

Owned by gay people!

A visitor · Over a year ago

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of cuisine do they serve? +

The menu focuses on American and seafood with Caribbean influences, as confirmed by Yelp categories.

What are the hours? +

The restaurant is open Monday and Wednesday through Sunday from 4pm to 9pm (9:30pm on Friday and Saturday). Closed on Tuesdays.

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