There are moments when I wonder whether we should stop trying restaurants that are new to us because if we like it, that just makes it harder to choose when we’re going out. However, we had been wanting to try Chef Michael’s in Islamorada for a long time and as we said to the waiter, manager, and one of the chefs, it lived up to it’s reputation. (http://www.foodtotalkabout.com/) That does not for one moment take away from other places that we enjoy, but it does add another that we can happily recommend.

Their menu truly should have something for everyone even though their extensive fresh catch selection prepared in a variety of ways is a focus. I chose lionfish, “Ponchartrain” which was lightly blackened, topped w/crawfish & shrimp in a piquant Creole cream, and my husband selected hogfish Ambassador” sauteed w/ crabmeat, shiitake mushrooms, capers, & key lime butter. Other dishes that went by us looked equally as delicious, and there was a woman who was a vegetarian and we listened as the manager discussed the standard items and then came to a decision about a dish they would create for her.

Since this was a special occasion, we split a dessert that while as with most restaurant desserts was a very large portion, it would not have traveled well and we polished it off with excellent coffee. Now, and I say this with a definite degree of affection, we all know that service in the Keys can be spotty. That was not an issue, although it was also not crowded and so I can’t speak as to how it might be if the restaurant is at capacity. The atmosphere is cozy with more seating on the screened in porch and we almost chose to eat out there. The meal was a thoroughly enjoyable experience.