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Key West › Key West › Mary Ellen's Bar & Restaurant
Mary Ellen's Bar & RestaurantBWorth Trying
420 Appelrouth Ln, Key West, FL 33040
· American restaurant, Bar
· 4.7/5 Google (1280 reviews)
Reservations · Delivery · Takeout
Lively Old Town bar serving standout comfort food and frozen Irish coffees, great for late-night bites; expect counter ordering and occasional event-night crowding.
Why it gets a B for overall quality
Mary Ellen's delivers solid neighborhood bar dining with strong food quality anchored by signature comfort plates and a celebrated frozen Irish coffee that builds genuine loyalty. Cozy side-street charm and warm bartender rapport create appeal, but quality variation in takeout orders and crowding on event nights prevent grade A territory. A reliable local favorite worth seeking out, especially for events and late-night bites.
Restaurant Summary
Tucked off Duval on a side lane, this spot feels like a cozy time capsule—think eclectic old-bar decor, low lights, and a friendly crowd that leans local but welcomes visitors. Bartenders often come off as warm and on point, and the signature frozen Irish coffee gets rave reactions like "that drink made my day." Event nights can be wild in the best way. The cooking skews comfort-first bar food—grilled cheese with creamy tomato soup, jerk chicken quesadillas and tacos, wings, and a filet steak sandwich—done with care and a few playful twists. It suits diners who want tasty, unfussy plates with solid portions more than culinary theater. Counter ordering keeps things casual; on busy event nights, patience helps. Families can do well here earlier in the day: kids tend to like grilled cheese, tenders, sliders, and fries. It is a bar setting, so evenings and events get loud and packed. There is no dedicated kids menu noted, but many straightforward items will work for less adventurous eaters.
At a Glance
- Signature frozen Irish coffee is a must-try crowd favorite
- Comfort-food menu delivers satisfying late-night bites
- Fun events (trivia, charity races) create a lively scene
- Counter ordering can confuse first-timers expecting table service
- Event nights bring crowding and limited seats; reservations/tickets needed
What Sets It Apart
- frozen_irish_coffee_signature
- weekly_charity_vibrator_races
- eclectic_old_bar_decor
What People Love
- That frosty Irish coffee indulgence
- Grilled cheese and tomato soup combo
- Laid-back locals bar energy
- Reasonable prices for Old Town
Points of Concern
- Service can be uneven during rush or events; some reports of being ignored at the bar
- Event seating is limited; reserved areas can frustrate walk-ins
- Delivery/takeout quality less consistent than dine-in
- Bar-focused environment can be loud; not ideal for quiet dinners
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleCounter With Seating
Average Cost$28-40 per person
ReservationsRecommended
What to Order
- Pair grilled cheese with a tomato soup cup for balance
- Choose jerk chicken items if you like moderate spice
- Opt for wings or sliders as shareables before events
Perfect For
- Late-night comfort food run
- Casual drinks and a snack off Duval
- Trivia or event night with friends
- Solo bite at the bar
Location Insights
Area: Historic Old Town lane off Duval, nightlife-heavy with bars and casual eats; draws tourists and locals.
Safety: Busy nightlife zone with steady foot traffic; generally safe but crowded late.
Nearby: Steps from Duval Street; near bars, shops, and attractions; popular pub-crawl stop.
Old TownOld Town is the historic heart of Key West, featuring charming architecture, bustling streets filled with bars, restaurants, and shops. The dining scene is diverse, ranging from casual seafood shacks to upscale eateries, often catering to tourists and locals seeking a relaxed yet lively atmosphere.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday11:30–02:00
Tuesday11:30–02:00
Wednesday11:30–02:00
Thursday11:30–02:00
Friday11:30–02:00
Saturday11:30–02:00
Sunday11:30–02:00
Available: Reservations, Delivery, Takeout
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