Florida Food Tour
Make all the “Florida Man” jokes you like; the Sunshine State is one of the most fascinating places in America for a road trip. It's home to stunning, white-sand beaches, thick cypress swamps, rich Cuban-American history, and maybe a couple of theme parks, too. All those things lend themselves to some world-class food, from its famous stone crabs and seafood to two versions of the Cuban sandwich. So pack your swimsuits, put the top down, and get ready for a food-filled road trip through Florida.
What to ask for
Cookies
Venture past the theme parks and into Orlando's neighborhoods, and you'll find the city is so much more than the Mouse. Areas like Audubon Park are filled with strip malls that have been reinvented as creative spaces, many of which are now home to local bakeries. Try a dream of a two‑inch thick cookie covered in chocolate chips, and you'll realize this was the wish your heart made all along.
What to ask for
Cuban Sandwich #1
An hour and a half down I‑4, you'll find yourself in Tampa, birthplace of the Cuban Sandwich. The sandwich originated in the cigar factories of Ybor City, Tampa's former Cuban enclave, where workers would pack smoked pork, ham, Swiss cheese, salami, and mustard onto bread for a quick lunch. Try the Cuban here so you can compare it to Miami's version down the road.
What to ask for
Stone Crab Claws
Plan your road trip between October 15 and May 1, and you'll be treated to the gargantuan Florida delicacy that is the stone crab claw. Many of the state's iconic pinchers come from Everglades City, a tiny fishing town deep in the heart of the swamp. The trip down US‑41 from Tampa to Miami takes you through the heart of the Big Cypress National Preserve. Stop in and try a couple of claws. Then, continue through one of the most unique and beautiful ecosystems in the world as you delve into the thick of the Everglades.
What to ask for
Cuban Sandwich #2
US‑41 ultimately becomes SW 8th Street in Miami, known locally as Calle Ocho. The epicenter of Cuban culture in Miami, this street is filled with cigar shops, abuelitos playing dominoes, and restaurants with salsa music pouring out onto the sidewalks. There's no shortage of great Cuban food here, but try Miami's take on the Cuban sandwich. Miami's version is similar to Tampa's, but leaves out the salami. And though debate rages between the two cities as to which one is best, you can decide for yourself.
What to ask for
Whatever the Catch of the Day Is
From Miami, it's on to the Overseas Highway and an adventure in the Florida Keys. The drive down US‑1 is one of the most scenic in America, as you'll cross towering bridges over turquoise waters, dropping into little islands with fantastically fresh seafood. In Key Largo, order up the day's catch fried, grilled, broiled, blackened, or jerked, and you'll get the quintessential Keys seafood experience.
What to ask for
Key Lime Pie
Key West is the end of the road, both literally and figuratively. The southern terminus of US‑1 drops you right next to Duval Street, one of America's great party streets and home to landmark bars. Key West is worth carving out a few days to get the full island experience, but make sure to grab some Key Lime Pie.
