What should I order at Half Shell Raw Bar?
Half Shell Raw Bar
Oysters
Oysters are highly recommended multiple times, praised for their freshness and variety including raw, garlic baked, and half shell options. Reviewers highlight them as some of the best in Key West, often ordering them by the dozen, especially during happy hour for great prices.
Bring Your Own Catch (BYOC) Fish Preparation
Several reviews mention bringing their own freshly caught fish to be prepared by the restaurant, with options like blackened, fried, or grilled. The preparation is described as outstanding and delicious, making it a unique and highly praised experience.
Stone Crab Claws
Stone crab claws are repeatedly recommended and described as 'to die for,' indicating excellent taste and quality. They are noted as a must-have item by repeat visitors.
Conch Fritters
Conch fritters are noted as a solid choice and worth trying since they are a local specialty in Key West. While considered decent, they are recommended by several reviewers.
Peel and Eat Shrimp
Peel and eat shrimp receive high praise for being fresh and flavorful, often highlighted as the 'star of the show' during happy hour and a favorite item to reorder.
Key Lime Pie
The homemade Key Lime pie is recommended as an excellent dessert option, appreciated for its quality and flavor by multiple reviewers.
Blackened Snapper
Blackened snapper is mentioned as a standout dish, especially during happy hour, praised for its delicious preparation and fresh taste.
Hours
| Monday | 11 AM to 10 PM |
|---|---|
| Tuesday | 11 AM to 10 PM |
| Wednesday | 11 AM to 10 PM |
| Thursday | 11 AM to 10 PM |
| Friday | 11 AM to 10 PM |
| Saturday | 11 AM to 10 PM |
| Sunday | 11 AM to 10 PM |
About Half Shell Raw Bar
Casual fish house with picnic tables & waterside seating in a former shrimp-packing facility.
Amenities & services
Service options
- Outdoor seating
- Delivery
- Onsite services
- Takeout
- Dine-in
Highlights
- Fast service
- Great beer selection
- Great cocktails
- Great dessert
- Serves local specialty
Popular for
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Solo dining
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible entrance
- Wheelchair accessible parking lot
- Wheelchair accessible restroom
- Wheelchair accessible seating
Offerings
- Alcohol
- Beer
- Cocktails
- Coffee
- Comfort food
- Happy hour drinks
- Happy hour food
- Hard liquor
- Healthy options
- Late-night food
- Quick bite
- Small plates
- Wine
Dining options
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Dessert
- Seating
- Table service
Amenities
- Bar onsite
- Restroom
Atmosphere
- Casual
- Cozy
- Historic
- Trendy
Crowd
- Groups
- Tourists
Payments
- Credit cards
- Debit cards
- NFC mobile payments
Children
- Good for kids
- High chairs
- Kids' menu
Parking
- Free street parking
- Paid parking lot
- Paid street parking
Pets
- Dogs allowed
- Dogs allowed inside
- Dogs allowed outside
Frequently asked questions
What is Half Shell Raw Bar known for?
It is best known for raw oysters on the half shell, especially during happy hour, when reviewers mention oysters for about $3 and half-price drinks and apps. People also come for conch fritters, stone crab claws, and the bay or pier views that make the seafood stop feel very Key West.
What dishes are most recommended at Half Shell Raw Bar?
Reviewers most often recommend the Gulf oysters or raw oysters, conch fritters, stone crab claws, peel-and-eat shrimp, and buffalo shrimp. Other frequently praised items include garlic baked oysters, conch chowder, fish and chips, lobster egg rolls, and homemade Key lime pie.
What is the atmosphere like at Half Shell Raw Bar?
The vibe is casual and dockside, with picnic tables, bar seating, license plates on the walls, and views over the water or near the pier. It works well for groups and tourists, but reviewers also mention it as an easy place for solo dining or a relaxed stop after fishing or before leaving Key West.
Is Half Shell Raw Bar good value? What is the price range?
The price range is $20 to $30, and reviewers often say the value improves a lot during happy hour because drinks and appetizers are half price. Even regular menu items like oysters, sandwiches, and burgers are described as filling, with some guests noting that a meal and dessert were enough to share.
When is the best time to visit Half Shell Raw Bar?
Happy hour is the most frequently recommended time, especially for cheaper oysters, drinks, and apps, and reviewers say the food and people-watching are strongest then. Lunch is also mentioned as less crowded, while sunset and waterside seating are popular when you want the view.
Is parking available at Half Shell Raw Bar?
Yes. Free street parking, Paid parking lot, Paid street parking is available.
Is Half Shell Raw Bar kid-friendly?
Yes, Half Shell Raw Bar is good for kids.
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