Blackfin Bistro - Key West, FL
There are lots of things to like about Blackfin Bistro. They use local seafood. They have a back patio that offers calm from the partying. Their staff is knowledgeable. They serve breakfast, lunch and dinner. And yes... most importantly, they have a solid wine list of varying price points.
Since I went for dinner, that's really all I can comment on. The menu is varied, and we sample well. We started with a charcuterie plate. It featured chorizo, salami, and two patés - pork and duck liver. The patés were truly wonderful. The pork was more to the country style and rustic, while the duck was creamy and smooth. Served with it were pickles and a little green. This was one of the best charcuterie plates I have ever had, probably because I am crazy about a good paté.
Since I write SpoonSaga.com, I have to try a little bit of everything. Next came the beet soup. Served chilled, but not overly cold, this soup had great texture even though it was pureed. There was a nutty taste to it, and I thought maybe walnuts were in the mix. I was told no though. They just roast the beets to give them a nutty taste. I loved it!
Last were the entrees. We sampled several categories on the Blackfin Bistro menu (click here for the link). From the sandwiches and burger menu, a fish sandwich was ordered. It looked crunchy and tasty. From the salad side was a grapefruit and greens salad. My friend didn't want the tuna on it, she wanted local Key West pinks aka shrimp. Blackfin was happy to make the change and she said the shrimp were grilled perfectly. I had the hogfish with chorizo, only hogfish wasn't caught that day so a fresh grouper was subbed. I loved being informed of the change and knowing that my dinner was super fresh. Everything was good, but the hearty fish and oily chorizo was a little heavy. Maybe it was the warm weather (the dish seemed a little winter) or maybe it was the fact that I ate soup and paté before hand! Either way, If you go and get this, don't over indulge before your entree!
Our server was pleasant and informative, but what I loved most about the staff can be found through a pass through window right on Duval. The Blackfin Bistro kitchen is right there! The chefs were happy to say hi as I thanked them for a wonderful meal. What a great way to end a night in Key West.
Posted by Lindsey Ann Waldrep at 6/4/2010 10:53 AM 
Categories: Domestic Dining - Florida
Tags: Key West Local Ingredients Seafood Bistro
Categories: Domestic Dining - Florida
Tags: Key West Local Ingredients Seafood Bistro
Lindsey, I've enjoyed looking at Spoon Saga. I LOVE Blackfin Bistro! The hogfish with chorizo is SO good.
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Thanks Kelly! I'm so glad you like the blog!
Blackfin wasn't terribly crowded for a weekend night. Although I don't want to have to wait to enjoy their delicious food, I hope fans of it like us can spread the word on how good it is!
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The guys who bought this place, formerly the location of Salsa Loca, have PERSONALLY done a great job fixing it up. They made those beautiful tables. All have excellent backgrounds from some great East coast spots & boy can they make a burger. Have enjoyed their steak as well, but one can never go wrong w/ fresh seafood in Key West. My husband loves this spot & the great folks who work there.
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