Key West: Cafe Marquesa (May 2000)

In Key West, “nothing else touches” this “small”, “romantic” bistro attached to the Marquesa Hotel for its “impressive” and “imaginative” New American cuisine (its “big-city prices” are up near the top too): while some deem it “a little too formal” for the area, most say it strikes a balance of “hip and old-world elegance” – add to that mix “great cocktails” and “flawless”, “well-paced” service, and the experience is “unforgettable.” Top-dollar elegance in the tropics for high heels, not flip flops. Comes with a view of the kitchen, not the waterfront. Cooking is first-rate with an Asian accent. Chef Susan Ferry presents seven or more inspired entrees on her changing menu each night. There's also a fine selection of wines and custom martinis.No visit to Key West is complete without a trip to Cafe Marquesa. For a memorable Key West dining experience, Cafe Marquesa’s "Contemporary American Cuisine” does not disappoint. Diners at the 50-seat restaurant catch glimpses of kitchen theatre behind a hand-painted trompe l'oeil wall. Large mahogany-framed mirrors give diners a view of the entire restaurant. A cozy bar is available for drinks, light bites, dessert, and coffee or full meals.