Backspace Bar & Kitchen
320 Grinnell St, Key West, FL, 33040
Backspace Bar & Kitchen Menu
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Visit below restaurant in Key West for healthy meals suggestion.
Visit below restaurant in Key West for healthy meals suggestion.
Visit below restaurant in Key West for healthy meals suggestion.
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Address :
320 Grinnell St
Key West, FL, 33040 - Phone (305) 440-2668
- Website https://backspacekeywest.com/
- Click To Get Directions
Opening Hours
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Specialities
- Takes Reservations : Yes
Delivery : No
Take-out : Yes
Accepts Credit Cards : Yes
Accepts Bitcoin : No
Good For : Dessert
Parking : Garage, Street
Bike Parking : Yes
Wheelchair Accessible : Yes
Good for Kids : Yes
Good for Groups : Yes
Attire : Casual
Ambience : Casual
Noise Level : Average
Good For Dancing : No
Alcohol : Full Bar
Happy Hour : Yes
Coat Check : No
Smoking : Outdoor Area/ Patio Only
Outdoor Seating : Yes
Wi-Fi : No
Has TV : Yes
Waiter Service : Yes
Caters : No
WE SERVE THE FOLLOWING STATES
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Matt S.
If you're looking for a fresh piece of fish, Backspace is the place to find it. Don't be fooled by the lack of a crowd; it's off the beaten trail and is a relatively new addition to the Key West dining scene. Once it's discovered, this will be one of the hottest dinner spots in town. I rarely post reviews, but my meal at Backspace was absolutely fantastic. The two "catch of the day" entrees were among the best meals I've had in a long time. I travel frequently on business and have eaten at some of the highest-rated restaurants in the nation. Backspace's food is right up there with the best. Their Hogfish and Yellowtail Snapper entrees were extremely fresh, perfectly cooked, and perfectly seasoned. They had a nice kick of heat, but not enough to completely overwhelm the delicate fish. The only reason this restaurant is rated at 4 stars is because a few local residents gave them poor ratings because they liked the place that used to be in this location and are upset it's gone. As a visitor passing through, I am confident we chose the right location for our only dinner in Key West.
(5)Randolph B.
Well, the mainland new owners have taken a place where I would regularly dine (and sometimes listen to local music) in a friendly pub setting and transformed it into just another touristy-island place: generic setting, over-priced nothing-special food. The outside seating area makes me think of my high school cafeteria . . . utilitarian without any KW feeling. Won't be back as long as this wannabe is on the corner.
(1)Elizabeth F.
Service was above average, tad annoying but we were the only customers. Good drinks, try the banana drink & the absinth drink. Conch fritters were good, 1st time eating conch tbh
(3)Jim M.
Went for dinner this past Saturday evening and was greeted nicely at the door. That was the end of the pleasantries for this evening since shortly after being sat, a live performer started up and we were having difficulty talking. The hostess should have said there is a live performer beginning shortly, so that we could have had the option of moving further away. Menu looked decent, so we ordered. I ordered the shrimp and grits, and my partner ordered the Hawaiian ribs. When the food arrived my partner could not cut his ribs apart and had to send them back into the kitchen to have them separate the sections. My shrimp and grits was over powering with spices that tasted like something from Outback Steakhouse and the grits were completely inedible resembling a pool of oatmeal floating with milk. I ate the shrimp and set the dish aside. The waitress came back and asked about the dish and I said the grits were really not good, her response was " well it is one of our best sellers", which must mean there was something wrong with me. I tried to save the meal by ordering desert which was again a big let down. NOW HERE IS THE KICKER. AFTER THIS MEAL ABOUT 6 hours into the evening I became violently ill and spent the next 8 hours vomiting. A classic case of food poisoning! I would avoid this place like the plague, and as a local I learned that most locals already avoid this place. There are far too many great places to eat at here in KW to have to put up with a place that does not take pride in their food or the cleanliness of their kitchen
(1)Deidra B.
Okay so first of all this place gets major points for letting us order from the kitchen less than five minutes before they shut it down. The hostess was very friendly and our waiter was okay (poor guy was the only one working all the tables so I took that into consideration). Hubby ordered the gumbo and said it was good - nice roux, sausage and rice; only the chicken was a bit bland. We ate earlier to I ordered desert: that banana pie is hands down one of my top three deserts - it was THAT good! Think of a banana pie with more of an apple pie texture and a perfectly crispy crust that wasn't overly sweet - the perfect desert. Seriously I'm currently searching for the recipe. Now onto the drinks - hubby's Pimms's cup was superb and my Rum Sidecar was nothing to sniff at. Both were fresh handcrafted cocktails. Needless to say I will return for the pie!
(4)Frank G.
Been here for a week and this was the best dinner! We each got the catch of the day. Hogfish almondine on a bed of coconut milk rice. Snapper on a bed of red beans & rice. Specials were $25-30 each. Had a couple boys with us. One got a burger with fries. I didn't have burger, but fries were best on the island! Service was top notch! Thanks Brian for the drink recommendations!
(5)Gail C.
Amazing food. Really nice menu with variety and featuring fresh catch. Staff so super accommodating it was a real treat. Definite worth the visit. Great food, great staff and really cool vibe.
(5)John J.
Reading the previous positve reviews, as locals, we tried out a new place.. The people who wrote these reviews are paying $350 to $700 a night for rooms. This location is off the beaten path and 3 days old. The bar is American.Tiki. The drinks we tried off the Tiki menu were not even close to the original recipes. Well drinks cost $7... Gumbo was acceptable, Ceviche good, Squid smelled like bait. The rest of the menu was on price with the 3 Star restaraunts in town, without being on the ocean. Late night menu, 5 shrimp for $12.. NOLA prices in KWF !! We catch Key West pinks here ! As a place that will require local support, the management needs to do their homework. If they think they can charge more the Louie's Back Yard's bar for drinks, then fare thee well !!
(2)Diana U.
I love what they have done with the place! I've been to Key West a few times and frequently peaked inside the restaurant before the opening and visited to have lunch after the opening. The interesting facts on the walls, the pictures, the nice and helpful staff, and that beautiful bar, all add to the fun atmosphere. Justine was my waitress and she was great. She visited the table many times to see how we were doing, and always made sure our drinks were filled. In addition to this, I really enjoyed their burger. Since having it, I crave it! I can't wait to try their other menu options, and will have to visit Key West again to check them out!
(5)Abe C.
As a local, I decided to write here. I very rarely do. Went with a group of eight. Tried to make reservations on Open Table App does not work. Called in made reservation that worked. Arrived sat down as soon as we got there. General Manager came over talk to us. Very nice guy (Eddie). Explained allot of the inner Key West issues and workings, asked us to patient as it was there first SAT night. Okay no issues. You have to work out the kinks.We ordered, food came. Not the best not the worst. Here are my three suggestions. Take them or leave them. I have been here for 15 years and usually my predictions are correct. 1. Get a busboy for 10 bucks an hour, just to do water and clean up. John our waiter was very nice but could not keep up. Just a suggestion. 2. Put out some bread. It's cheap give folks something to munch on while you guys are still figuring it out in the kitchen. Just a suggestion. Bread is cheap. 3. Add a fan over by the big table in the back. Very warm, all were complaining. Lastly, Eddie, you have to do something about the level (height) your tables are at verses the Old Finnegan's booths. I'm 6'4 and felt like I was in a high chair. Everyone else chins were on the table. Food, was okay, came out cold. Except for the burger, that was hot and I think I was only one that was really happy. Everyone kept saying "wish I would have ordered that. Eddie, i know you said you had worked at Louis Back Yard. Brother, this was not Louis quality. I am willing to chalk it up to just starting jitters and room for improvement. For what you guys are giving, it's not worth the money. I can go to 10 other places within 2 miles of you and get the same as we got and for half the price. If you want to see a Skirt Steak, Take a ride to the Square Grouper. That's what you need to be working towards . Again Burger is awesome. I think I was the only one who said they would give it another shot. I will since I only work around the block. But for now probably for lunch. So that's 7 locals lost with big mouths that are not coming back. Finally, I wish you guys the best and really do hope you make it. Change up your menu soon, do something to attract the locals or your not going to make it past this time next year. After May, if you don't have the locals, it's going to be crickets.
(3)Anthony G.
Highly recommend this bar/restaurant. Live music, super friendly staff, and fantastic drinks. Try the smoked rum old fashion. Best drink I've had on the island.
(5)Len P.
Nice Caribbean vibe. Good food and drinks. Staff was very accommodating. Great Key Lime pie.
(5)Wes T.
A delightful dining experience! Wonderful food, good service, very pleasant atmosphere - with mellow yet modern live music. This easily rates among the best in Key West.
(5)Tanya W.
This is exactly what we were looking for when choosing a place for dinner. Quality, creative and delicious food, fun yet romantic atmosphere and in a perfect location in super close proximity to our central hotel in Key West. We walked by and were intrigued by the restaurants interior and lively music. After checking out the menu, we were convinced. The rum punch, conch balls, short ribs and shrimp and grits were ALL phenomenal. The staff was super friendly and helpful. We had an awesome experience here and are so sad that we are leaving tomorrow! Definitely a great place to stop in while in Key West!!!
(5)Michael B.
We don't review often but the server and manager asked us to so.... Arrived about 9:30 on a weekend night, the place about 75% empty. The remodel from the former pub was very nice. Not too sure about the concept they are going for, the writer's/ New Orleans/ Tiki bar theme, but who am I to judge, other than it felt a bit confused. Anyway, we were promptly seated and quickly tended to by our server. Ordered a couple of cocktails which were mixed fine and served in good sized glasses. The small menu is also a bit confused as far as the cuisine, there is no real one. It's a really odd mix of styles. We ordered a couple of appetizers, a salad and a hamburger. The Cesar salad was very good and even had anchovies. The fried calamari had no real seasoning and tasted quite greasy. The aoli that came alongside added nothing. The Thai shrimp were good but again, came with seaweed salad, which isn't Thai at all. The burger was pretty good. Cooked as ordered and on what looked like a fresh baked bun. The french fries were very tasty. The proportions were fairly generous. The service was attentive but a bit clumsy and unpolished. We mention this only because the prices are not in typical range in my experiences with pub food. This is an upper-mid price place and our expectations of service quality moves up according to what we're paying. It's a newly opened restaurant so we're sure the quirks of running a business in Key West are still working themselves out. In our 25 years living here, we've seen a lot of restaurants come and go. Hopefully, the owner's can keep this from happening.
(2)Jen S.
Our first meal in Key West .....liked it so much that we had our last meal here as well. Great variety on the menu. Service was great and the place was very clean. We loved our waitress, Kelly!
(4)C A.
My husband and I had enjoyed Finnegans and were interested in the changes being made to the establishment.. What the new owners have done is really inviting. It's now full of light and feels open and airy. It's nice to get true artisan cocktails at what we consider a reasonable price. Our bartender, Ben, was friendly and attentive, didn't treat us like people he'd never see again, the live music was awesome. We're looking forward to trying the food, but for now wanted to let people know that the drinks, ambiance and service are spot on.
(5)Brian B.
Have eaten here twice. Really enjoyed it both time. Amazing fries. Excellent fish and chips. Hawaiian ribs were fantastic and the jerk chicken was awesome. Great atmosphere, pet friendly, good service, and a nice drink selection. All around excellent. The only disappointment was the jicama slaw. Our was kind of dull. Highly recommended overall.
(5)Margaret M.
Walked by on their opening day and decided to try this new restaurant. The staff could not have been more accommodating or dog friendly. We ate outside with our two dogs and several staff came by to say hello to them. We ordered the calamari that came with a nicely balanced aioli, not too spicy and very tasty. The hamburger was delicious and the fries good but nothing special. We tried the key lime frozen dessert and it was the perfect ending to a very good meal. We would go back.
(4)Gregory P.
Wonderful high quality American and seafood.. More gourmet then your everyday place. Nice Earnest Hemingway atmosphere with old books and typewriters. Outside and inside eating and bar. Looks a bit like Tommy Bahamas. Fancy meals taken to the next level. The adult grilled cheese with avocado is amazing..
(5)Guy B.
We were lucky enough to walk by on their very first day in business. Backspace is awesome!! My husband and I split the Thai Shrimp which was wonderfully prepared. We split a roast beef sandwich that had fried oysters on it...really good. The Key Lime Baked Alaska was amazing. Our service was amazing and no glitches on their first. Can't wait to go back
(5)Nell D.
Got there before the rush. The Havana and Piña Coladas were outstanding. The table had the pancetta wrapped scallops and they were fabulous, shrimp ceviche, Caesar salad, adult grilled cheese and snapper with coconut rice. Finished with banana pie and pineapple upside down cake. Everything was great and there were no leftovers!
(5)Sean O.
Thought this place was great. Small beer taps and wine list but very intelligent choices. Menu was nice, my fish special was super. Other meals at the table likewise were really good. Service was fabulous. I'd eat here regularly if I was a local. Chartreuse (green) at the bar is always nice but some better sipping rums would be great (can't mark down for that though).
(5)Lauren B.
Dinner was great. I had the coconut lime mussels and the chef's catch of the day. My husband had the ribs. Everything was delicious! After dinner we were about to leave then decided to stay after we heard the band. We ended up staying there most of the night. Try the key lime martini. You won't regret it.
(5)Sarah G.
From the door till you walk in the ambiance is great the employees are friendly. They take the time to care if your happy phenomenal menus & drinks. Definitely coming back. Usually pay twice the price for the same quality, service & ambiance.
(5)Christine N.
As a local, I am always on the lookout for "good eats" - the burger looked amazing and a friend gave the big thumbs up. I will try it next time. I had the chicken bruschetta - - yum! Looking forward to going back.
(4)Clark L.
Agreed with the other local reviewer.Went by last night for drink and to check out the menu. Used to eat at Finnigans Wake,previous restaurant in this spot,twice a month+/-.Ok spot for beer and "Irish food".Great beer choice then.Now?...not so much KW doesn't really need another $15 burger joint. Decor was great.Service was fine.Felt just like I was on Ocean Drive,Miami. Can't think of a reason to go back!
(2)Piper S.
Fair. I know they just opened and the decor looks amazing. My husband had the burger and it was delicious. I had grilled cheese. For $11 the bread needed to be buttered before it was grilled. It was a cheese sandwich on dry toast. The fries could have also used a few more minutes in the fryer. I will wait a couple of months before I go back.
(3)Greg S.
Basing this review on staff attitude and cocktails only. Wanted to avoid the main drag of Key West during our stay and found this new spot. Some solid, balanced cocktails and I work in the spirits business so I know a good cocktail when I get one. Wife had Key Lime Martini and was solid, but the Pain Remover was solid. Friendly staff and best drinks of our whole trip. Check this out if you want to avoid the crowds and get a great cocktail. Guess they have a spot in New Orleans as well.
(5)Suzi T.
BEST food during our visit to Key West. Relaxing atmosphere. Food was wonderful and fresh. Southern offerings, collards were terrific, not overcooked. Squash casserole was something new to me but so tasty. And the great service....Britt was so helpful in her recommendations. Highly recommend finding this restaurant.
(5)David S.
Went to Backspace for lunch we were greeted by friendly staff, the bar and dining room was bright and very clean. There were six of us and we all agreed that the food was excellent. As we were on our lunch break we were very pleased with the speed of the service, and a fair prices, Will be back for sure.
(5)Patricia S.
At first I was not happy...we loved when it was Finnegans Wake, but I have to say the staff is very friendly, the service great and the decor very comfortable. We have yet to eat there, but it's become our favorite spot for a nightcap. Waiting to see what happens on St Patricks Day... Good luck with your new restaurant...btw..food looks great!
(5)Shannen C.
Wonderful place with a great atmosphere, nice & friendly staff and very efficient. We enjoyed ourselves and the ambiance of the place for their grand opening. The 100% Angus Beef Burger is an excellent choice with Brie cheese that melts in your mouth. The Thai shrimp was very tasty and we will definitely re-visit next time we are in Key West. The drinks are good as well and served in various shaped tiki mugs with garnishments that allow for the feeling of being on Island Time, and not having a care in the world.
(5)Gary W.
great place. not your typical Key West restaurant that wants your money and you move on. great atmosphere and great food.
(5)