Amigos Tortilla Bar
On the scene near Mallory Square since 2011, the brainchild of another longtime Key West character—tattooed, slightly scruffy, kite-boarding chef Paul Menta—is a boon for the budget conscious and fans of Mexican food (up until now I hadn’t been much impressed with the island’s offerings on this score). The central “gimmick” is a soft, fresh-made taco that’s square, which actually makes it easier to handle than many round tacos. Fillings are all delish—such as angus brisket with mole sauce, achiote-marinated pork, fish, or conch with mango chili sauce—and Menta makes a point to go the extra mile on quality by buying local and antibiotic/hormone-free, as well as keeping the menu as gluten-free as possible. If you’re feeling a little adventurous, try the nopal cactus gumbo. The wood-paneled joint itself has indoor/outdoor seating and a fun, cheery atmosphere very much in keeping with the lower Duval Street vibe.
On the scene near Mallory Square since 2011, the brainchild of another longtime Key West character—tattooed, slightly scruffy, kite-boarding chef Paul Menta—is a boon for the budget conscious and fans of Mexican food (up until now I hadn’t been much impressed with the island’s offerings on this score). The central “gimmick” is a soft, fresh-made taco that’s square, which actually makes it easier to handle than many round tacos. Fillings are all delish—such as angus brisket with mole sauce, achiote-marinated pork, fish, or conch with mango chili sauce—and Menta makes a point to go the extra mile on quality by buying local and antibiotic/hormone-free, as well as keeping the menu as gluten-free as possible. If you’re feeling a little adventurous, try the nopal cactus gumbo. The wood-paneled joint itself has indoor/outdoor seating and a fun, cheery atmosphere very much in keeping with the lower Duval Street vibe.
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