Fine dining after fishing

End of the Line

February 2026

Article and Photos by Polly Dean

It’s only fitting that your options for dining experiences at Hawks Cay Resort would include a culinary experience with an island flair. The restaurant self-describes as “offering the impeccable quality of Michelin-starred chef Jeremy Ford and his creations rooted in the connections between land, sea and fire.” The dining experience is one that combines refined flavor and texture with coastal bohemian charm.

The menu includes a variety of options and preparations of local fresh seafoods. We were fortunate in that our visit was during Florida’s open stone-crab season. We sampled a half-dozen of the sweet delicately-flavored claws prior to our main course of the expertly grilled local catch of the day. It was the perfect ending and way to satisfy our appetite we gained from enjoying a day of saltwater angling.

The creative appetizer selection includes items such as crunchy truffle potatoes, Key West pink shrimp and roasted beet salad. The Raw Bar selection offers delicacies such as oysters prepared in a variety of ways, coconut tuna ceviche, and the afore mentioned stone crabs in season.

The main entre menu includes dishes for seafood lovers, as well as those that prefer a land-based meals Included are a selection of steaks, tenderloins, ribs and burgers. Side dishes offered are jerk charred carrots, three cheese mac’n cheese, or charred gratitude garden mushrooms. Pizzas and pasta are also available for diners that desire. Desserts include roasted summer blueberries served on an olive oil cake with pastry cream, candied pistachio and lemon sorbet, chocalate lava cake, Key lime tarts or milk & cookie for those with a simpler taste.

The dining room at Salt & Ash.

The décor features panoramic views of the lush garden surroundings and palm trees rustling in the island breeze. The restaurant has rustic, yet tasteful and polished décor that allows the beautiful tropical character of the island to be the star of the show.

Salt & Ash is open for dinner daily and offers a brunch on Sundays. Reservations are recommended, and required for parties of 8 or more. Salt & Ash invites you to “Settle in for coastal-inspired dishes, thoughtful cocktails, and an easy, unhurried way to savor your time in the Florida Keys.”

To visit their website for more information, click here.