Nestled in the heart of Old Key West, Florida, on Petronia Street, you’ll find Blue Heaven, a restaurant with a captivating history as rich as its Caribbean flavors. This iconic blue building on Thomas Street has been a cornerstone of Key West culture for over a century, evolving from a spirited saloon to the beloved dining destination it is today.
A Storied Location in Old Key West
Long before it was known for its exquisite seafood and vibrant atmosphere, the Dade County Pine structure that houses Blue Heaven was a hub of local life. A century before artists Suanne and writer Richard first opened its doors as a restaurant, this location was already serving the Key West and Florida Keys community. In its early days, it was a place to acquire spirits, a vital commodity in the island chain.
From Spirits to Scraps: Early Days
The property’s history is as colorful as Key West itself. Beyond being a place for spirits, it was rumored to host cock fighting events, clandestine gambling, and even Friday night boxing matches. Adding to its legendary past, Ernest Hemingway, a famous Key West resident, was said to have refereed some of these boxing bouts. The courtyard, now a charming outdoor dining area, is paved with slate pool table tops, remnants from when the downstairs served as a billiard hall and ice cream parlor.
Alt text: Vibrant outdoor dining area at Blue Heaven Key West, featuring colorful picnic tables shaded by lush tropical foliage, embodying the restaurant’s relaxed Key West atmosphere and historic charm.
Upstairs, the building has seen even more transformations. It has been a dance hall, a bordello, and even a playhouse. Today, the second floor is home to the Bordello Gallery, a nod to its past, where visitors can still peek through the sliding peep holes of the tiny rooms, offering a glimpse into the building’s intriguing history.
Picnic Tables and Tropical Dreams: The Beginning of Blue Heaven
The modern chapter of this historic location began in September 1992. With limited resources but abundant creativity, artist Suanne and writer Richard embarked on their restaurant venture. They started humbly, cooking and serving simple yet flavorful meals of black beans, rice, and fish. Their dining room was the open-air courtyard, furnished with painted picnic tables under the shade of a sprawling tropical almond tree.
Alt text: Exterior of Blue Heaven restaurant Key West on Petronia Street, showcasing its iconic blue building and historic architecture, a landmark dining destination in the Florida Keys.
Operating from their houseboat on Christmas Tree Island, Suanne and Richard commuted daily to their Key West restaurant, slowly nurturing their lunch counter business. They expanded to breakfast and introduced a $2 special, gradually building their clientele. However, the outdoor nature of their restaurant meant they were often at the mercy of the weather, as rain could disrupt their operations and their commute.
Chef Dan’s Culinary Magic
After a year and a half, a significant turning point arrived with the addition of Richard’s brother, Dan. A formally trained chef who had honed his skills at the prestigious Carolina Inn in Chapel Hill, N.C., Dan brought his culinary expertise to Blue Heaven. He quickly took charge of the dinner menu, elevating the cuisine to new heights. The simple “fish plate” was transformed into dishes like Black Grouper seared with dried herbs, accompanied by a key lime honey glaze and a refreshing warm cucumber and red onion salad.
Alt text: Chef Dan at Blue Heaven Key West expertly preparing dishes, highlighting the restaurant’s commitment to culinary excellence and fresh, flavorful Caribbean cuisine.
Chef Dan’s dedication to quality and flavor was evident in every dish. Former kitchen staff consistently attest to his meticulous approach to food preparation. Blue Heaven’s menu is characterized by Caribbean cuisine, fresh seafood, and flavorful vegetarian options, catering to a diverse palate.
Accolades and Ambiance
Blue Heaven’s unique charm and exceptional food have garnered praise from around the world. Journalist Charles Kuralt famously declared that Chef Dan’s scallop sauce “would make cardboard taste good,” a testament to the restaurant’s culinary excellence. Accolades have poured in, recognizing Blue Heaven as a truly unique and must-visit Key West dining experience.
Beyond the food, Blue Heaven offers an unforgettable ambiance. Diners are surrounded by the restaurant’s rich history and the natural beauty of Key West. While enjoying their meal, guests are reminded to be mindful of the natural surroundings, including falling almonds, Spanish limes, coconuts, and the restaurant’s resident roosters that freely roam the courtyard. And finally, a playful reminder: no swinging from the water tower on the rope swing!
Blue Heaven on Thomas Street in Key West, FL, is more than just a restaurant; it’s a living piece of Key West history, offering a delicious taste of the island’s past and present.
