Kermit’s Key Lime Pie Shop on Elizabeth Street in Key West is more than just a dessert destination; it’s a slice of local history baked into every pie. For three decades, this iconic shop has been serving up authentic Key Lime goodness, becoming a must-visit for anyone exploring the flavors of the Florida Keys. But the story of Kermit’s began humbly, long before it became a Key West staple.
Kermit's Key Lime Pie Shop storefront in Key West with outdoor seating and signage
The journey started over 30 years ago when Kermit Carpenter, then a bookkeeper at Papa’s Restaurant, began his entrepreneurial venture selling smoothies from a small stand right outside the restaurant. Fate intervened when Papa’s head chef departed unexpectedly, pushing Kermit to consider a new path. Brainstorming with his sister Anita and her husband John, the trio decided to create something distinctly “Key West” and of exceptional quality. Gourmet food and the quintessential Key Lime flavor were the perfect ingredients, and thus, Kermit’s Key West Key Lime Shoppe was born.
The initial location at the corner of Elizabeth and Greene was a gamble. While the price was appealing, the shop found itself opposite a less-than-desirable sewage pumping station. However, its prime location on the bight, Key West’s vibrant waterfront area, offered promise. Recognizing the city’s redevelopment plans for the area, Kermit, Anita, and John believed that enduring the initial challenges would lead to a premier location in the long run.
Before officially opening Kermit’s Key Lime Pie Shop, Kermit and Anita embarked on a road trip to Maryland to visit their parents. During this drive, they conceived the master plan for Kermit’s ever-expanding Key Lime product line. They brainstormed and listed every conceivable product that could incorporate the tangy and unique Key Lime flavor. This list became the blueprint for the diverse and delightful array of Key Lime offerings that Kermit’s is now famous for.
By 2003, Kermit’s Key Lime Shoppe was thriving, exceeding its original shop’s capacity. John joined the business full-time as Managing Director after his military service. To accommodate the growing internet customer base and reduce manufacturing costs, they established a production facility and showroom in DeLand, Florida. This DeLand location, boasting 12,000 square feet, houses a shop, warehouse, and production kitchen. Crucially, DeLand became home to a dedicated team of employees who are now considered the backbone of Kermit’s Key West Key Lime Shoppe, efficiently managing website orders, wholesale partnerships, and supporting the Key West locations.
In 2011, Kermit’s expanded further, seizing an opportunity to open a location on Duval Street, Key West’s famous thoroughfare. This second Key West shop made it even easier for visitors to indulge in Kermit’s Key Lime treats, including their signature Key Lime pie on a stick, dipped in decadent Belgian chocolate.
The year 2020 presented unprecedented challenges with the Covid-19 pandemic, forcing Key West to close to non-residents for 81 days. Kermit’s Key Lime Shop navigated these turbulent times, relying on their online store and the unwavering support of loyal customers who sought comfort in the familiar taste of Key Lime, delivered directly to their homes.
October 2023 marked the 30th anniversary of Kermit’s, now known as Kermit’s Key Lime Shop. This milestone was celebrated with a beautiful refresh of their flagship Elizabeth Street location, promising exciting new Key Lime creations for visitors to enjoy for many years to come. Visit Kermit’s Key Lime Pie Shop at Elizabeth Street and experience the authentic taste of Key West history.
