Half Shell Raw Bar
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Fun spot to enjoy a drink in nice weather. The bucket of clams was so delicious and flavorful. The rest of the meal was just ok. For the price point, I was expecting so much more. Everything was very dry and over cooked. I'd come back to enjoy the ambiance and chat with the waiters - they were so kind and attentive.
This review is for HAPPY HOUR only! From 4:30-6:30, half shell raw bar is packed!!! I went right at 4:30 to beat the crowds. Luckily we didn't have to wait, but every table filled up quick after us. The waitress was awesome rushing around across multiple tables. We placed a huge order all upfront, because we ordered a bunch of appetizers that were 50% off during happy hour, plus multiple types of oysters. I love the smoked fish dip and the sweet lips apps, which are cream cheese filled jalapeño poppers. My husband got wings which he loved it came with 10, for only $9. My father got Conch ceviche and Conch Fritters, both were very delicious, all 50% off. We also got a dozen of Louisiana oysters on happy hour price for $2 each, and Canada oysters on happy hour price for $3 each. Also got garlic oysters, which were not on happy hour. All were delicious. The oyster shooters are soooo good, IMO Much better than the neighboring oyster bar down the boardwalk! I was impressed that kettle one vodka is also 50% off during happy hour, for my husband who doesn't like to drink beer! Overall amazing happy hour, if you can get there early before the crowds go on a wait. I don't think I would pay full price here given most of it is fried food or raw bar, which is my only hesitation giving 5 stars. But I'll definitely be back for happy hour!!
Toward the end of our week in Key West, we stopped in for lunch after a long morning walk. Food: The menu offers plenty of choices, especially seafood, which is no surprise in this setting. We ordered the Tuna Poke and the Lobster Tacos. The poke was a flavorful combination of seaweed salad, sweet soy dressing, avocado, pickled ginger, and fried wontons. The portion was generous and well balanced, although it could have used a lighter hand with the soy dressing. The chips were very good and disappeared quickly. We ended up asking for a few more to finish the dish. The lobster tacos were also a good choice. They featured nice pieces of lobster, lettuce, and pico de gallo. I added avocado, and the portion was generous. Like the poke, the tacos could have benefited from less sauce, as it made the dish a bit too wet. The accompanying rice and beans were surprisingly fresh and better than what is often served as a side. Service: We were seated right away. Our server was pleasant and helpful, though not especially warm. Drinks and our food order were taken promptly. After the food was delivered, however, we didn't see the server again until we were nearly finished. That's when we requested more iced tea and additional chips for the poke. Overall, the service felt a bit inconsistent. Atmosphere: The venue has a strong seaport feel, rustic and casual. We sat outside and enjoyed watching the fishing boats return, unloading both passengers and their catch. Pelicans and seagulls hovered nearby, adding to the waterfront experience. It was a pleasant setting for lunch. For the atmosphere alone, it's worth visiting, and with a lighter touch on the sauces and more consistent service, it could easily become a repeat favorite.
Half Shell Raw Bar was exactly what we were looking for that afternoon. The location right on the water is hard to beat. Grab a seat, order a cold beer, watch the boats come and go, and enjoy some seafood. Sometimes that's all you need. We stopped in for a pitcher of beer and a few bites. The clams were fresh, the seafood was good, and the service was friendly and attentive without hovering. What I liked most was that the place doesn't try to be anything other than what it is. No frills, no gimmicks, just a dockside seafood spot serving cold drinks and fresh seafood with a great view. I've heard they're known for happy hour, but we didn't make it for that. Based on our visit, I'd happily come back and give it a try next time. If you're looking for waterfront dining without all the fuss, this place is worth a stop.
After knowing our boat excursion was canceled due to the heavy rain, we decided to catch Happy Hour here because oysters & conch were on our minds. We sat almost right away although it was pretty busy & everyone was watching FIFA. We ordered 1/2 dozen of 2 types of oysters (1 type was smaller but flavorful & the other was bigger & juicier), conch ceviche (chewy but so good with the crunchy tortillas & pico de gallo, clam chowder (red-base with potatoes), side of yellow rice (comfort food), & 2 rather strong margaritas to seal the deal. Service was appreciated! Just letting you know, you have to walk past the merchandise bar, past the main bar, down a long hallway to get to the restrooms, but at least they were clean. Thank you Half Shell Raw Bar for making up for the canceled excursion.
We were waiting for our uber to the airport and said..."we've got 5 min. Let's get some oysters. There's always time for oysters! " We sat at the outdoor bar and shot down a dozen! They were cold. Tasty and fast with great 5 min service. Ambiance??? I have no idea. lol So yep, they were calling our names when we got through TSA. We ran to the gate (swimsuits under our clothes) and just made it in time! So when you wonder...Do we have enough time for some oysters? Hell yeah we do! See you soon!
You simply can't beat a table with a water view, cool breeze, cold beer and a variety of fresh seafood catch with a laid back vibe!! Its well run history started as a shrimp warehouse and the restaurant was established in 1972. We popped in for a light bite and were greeted with smiles and a helpful server! Both the Steamed Shrimp and Broiled oysters were fantastic! I'll certainly return when back in the Keys!
The location of Half Shell is great! On the marina in Key West. The place has a super fun vibe with two separate large bars, outdoor and indoor open air seating. We came with a larger party, so we all were able to try several items on the menu. To be fair, no one in our group tried the raw oysters, but we did have: drinks, appetizers, salads, and a variety of items off their dinner menu. The calamari and crab fritters were just okay, with the tomato dipping sauce being weird. The entree's were very disappointing. My daughter ordered the Rib Eye, which was paper thin 1/2" or less and flavorless. My wife had blackened grouper topped with crab, she felt the fish was fresh, but lacked any flavor enhancements that could make it better. My son ordered the fish sandwich which he said was just okay. We split a green salad that had one tomato, the lettuce was not cut, the croutons were stale. I ordered the Garlic Shellfish Combo. The combo was supposed to have clams, mussels, crab, lobster, shrimp, corn on the cob, red potatoes, garlic Cuban bread. I had one edible clam, the others did not open, it had 2 shrimp, three potatoes a crab claw in a garlic broth. Everything was Luke warm at best. The server smiled briefly but was curt with our large party. This is a popular place, but I don't get the hype. I'm hoping maybe next time I come to Key West to visit again.
I came here for a guys trip and I was impressed with the oyster selection. I tried the steamed and raw oysters. The Rockefella oysters were good too but they had a little too much cheese on them. The main course was this fish sandwich which was decent but could have used a unique sauce. The service was good for how busy it was. Our server lived in the area for many years and seemed to be able to suggest many different dishes. The inside seemed to be designed like other seafood spots
Tuna poke was swimming in toooo much sauce , sad because it looked like great tuna. Everything else was just okay
Had a lovely lunch here with nice service and good food. I enjoyed the fish and chips basket which was plentiful and came out piping hot. The atmosphere inside is relaxing and the view of the marina is pretty.
Food was great very fresh and tasty. The service was amazing. She was super sweet and nice! I will be back when I come back around here. Try HOT LIPS!
Great place to pass the day away. Try to sit closest to the marina and watch the boat traffic, look down and you can see fish in the water as the water is so clear. Listen to the great music being piped in. Jimmy Buffett was on it. It was perfect. This is Key West at its finest. Just sitting here you could forget your own name. Service was attentive, polite, and fun natured. For lunch, the seafood appetizer consisting of fritters, shrimp and calamari, hit the spot @ $17.95 I loved the local draft beer on tap Parking can be a little pricey, but what else isn't in Key West. You can park right in front, $6.00 for two hours. This place is also good for groups or families. Great music being piped through. This had the island vibe at 100%. This is always one of my favorite stops when in Key West
3 days ago
20 days ago
Service 5/5 Food Freshness 5/5 Location 5/5 Ambiance 5:5 Sit next to the water and you can see all the different fish swimming by, what a great place to have oysters and conch fritters. Everything tasted fresh and delicious. And the staff was extremely friendly. The garlic oysters were my favorites here. read more
Fun spot to enjoy a drink in nice weather. The bucket of clams was so delicious and flavorful. The rest of the meal was just ok. For the price point, I was expecting so much more. Everything was very dry and over cooked. I'd come back to enjoy the ambiance and chat with the waiters - they were so kind and attentive. read more
7 months ago
This review is for HAPPY HOUR only! From 4:30-6:30, half shell raw bar is packed!!! I went right at 4:30 to beat the crowds. Luckily we didn't have to wait, but every table filled up quick after us. The waitress was awesome rushing around across multiple tables. We placed a huge order all upfront, because we ordered a bunch of appetizers that were 50% off during happy hour, plus multiple types of oysters. I love the smoked fish dip and the sweet lips apps, which are cream cheese filled jalapeño poppers. My husband got wings which he loved it came with 10, for only $9. My father got Conch ceviche and Conch Fritters, both were very delicious, all 50% off. We also got a dozen of Louisiana oysters on happy hour price for $2 each, and Canada oysters on happy hour price for $3 each. Also got garlic oysters, which were not on happy hour. All were delicious. The oyster shooters are soooo good, IMO Much better than the neighboring oyster bar down the boardwalk! I was impressed that kettle one vodka is also 50% off during happy hour, for my husband who doesn't like to drink beer! Overall amazing happy hour, if you can get there early before the crowds go on a wait. I don't think I would pay full price here given most of it is fried food or raw bar, which is my only hesitation giving 5 stars. But I'll definitely be back for happy hour!! read more
Toward the end of our week in Key West, we stopped in for lunch after a long morning walk. Food: The menu offers plenty of choices, especially seafood, which is no surprise in this setting. We ordered the Tuna Poke and the Lobster Tacos. The poke was a flavorful combination of seaweed salad, sweet soy dressing, avocado, pickled ginger, and fried wontons. The portion was generous and well balanced, although it could have used a lighter hand with the soy dressing. The chips were very good and disappeared quickly. We ended up asking for a few more to finish the dish. The lobster tacos were also a good choice. They featured nice pieces of lobster, lettuce, and pico de gallo. I added avocado, and the portion was generous. Like the poke, the tacos could have benefited from less sauce, as it made the dish a bit too wet. The accompanying rice and beans were surprisingly fresh and better than what is often served as a side. Service: We were seated right away. Our server was pleasant and helpful, though not especially warm. Drinks and our food order were taken promptly. After the food was delivered, however, we didn't see the server again until we were nearly finished. That's when we requested more iced tea and additional chips for the poke. Overall, the service felt a bit inconsistent. Atmosphere: The venue has a strong seaport feel, rustic and casual. We sat outside and enjoyed watching the fishing boats return, unloading both passengers and their catch. Pelicans and seagulls hovered nearby, adding to the waterfront experience. It was a pleasant setting for lunch. For the atmosphere alone, it's worth visiting, and with a lighter touch on the sauces and more consistent service, it could easily become a repeat favorite. read more
3 months ago
Half Shell Raw Bar was exactly what we were looking for that afternoon. The location right on the water is hard to beat. Grab a seat, order a cold beer, watch the boats come and go, and enjoy some seafood. Sometimes that's all you need. We stopped in for a pitcher of beer and a few bites. The clams were fresh, the seafood was good, and the service was friendly and attentive without hovering. What I liked most was that the place doesn't try to be anything other than what it is. No frills, no gimmicks, just a dockside seafood spot serving cold drinks and fresh seafood with a great view. I've heard they're known for happy hour, but we didn't make it for that. Based on our visit, I'd happily come back and give it a try next time. If you're looking for waterfront dining without all the fuss, this place is worth a stop. read more
After knowing our boat excursion was canceled due to the heavy rain, we decided to catch Happy Hour here because oysters & conch were on our minds. We sat almost right away although it was pretty busy & everyone was watching FIFA. We ordered 1/2 dozen of 2 types of oysters (1 type was smaller but flavorful & the other was bigger & juicier), conch ceviche (chewy but so good with the crunchy tortillas & pico de gallo, clam chowder (red-base with potatoes), side of yellow rice (comfort food), & 2 rather strong margaritas to seal the deal. Service was appreciated! Just letting you know, you have to walk past the merchandise bar, past the main bar, down a long hallway to get to the restrooms, but at least they were clean. Thank you Half Shell Raw Bar for making up for the canceled excursion. read more
11 months ago
We were waiting for our uber to the airport and said..."we've got 5 min. Let's get some oysters. There's always time for oysters! " We sat at the outdoor bar and shot down a dozen! They were cold. Tasty and fast with great 5 min service. Ambiance??? I have no idea. lol So yep, they were calling our names when we got through TSA. We ran to the gate (swimsuits under our clothes) and just made it in time! So when you wonder...Do we have enough time for some oysters? Hell yeah we do! See you soon! read more
You simply can't beat a table with a water view, cool breeze, cold beer and a variety of fresh seafood catch with a laid back vibe!! Its well run history started as a shrimp warehouse and the restaurant was established in 1972. We popped in for a light bite and were greeted with smiles and a helpful server! Both the Steamed Shrimp and Broiled oysters were fantastic! I'll certainly return when back in the Keys! read more
The location of Half Shell is great! On the marina in Key West. The place has a super fun vibe with two separate large bars, outdoor and indoor open air seating. We came with a larger party, so we all were able to try several items on the menu. To be fair, no one in our group tried the raw oysters, but we did have: drinks, appetizers, salads, and a variety of items off their dinner menu. The calamari and crab fritters were just okay, with the tomato dipping sauce being weird. The entree's were very disappointing. My daughter ordered the Rib Eye, which was paper thin 1/2" or less and flavorless. My wife had blackened grouper topped with crab, she felt the fish was fresh, but lacked any flavor enhancements that could make it better. My son ordered the fish sandwich which he said was just okay. We split a green salad that had one tomato, the lettuce was not cut, the croutons were stale. I ordered the Garlic Shellfish Combo. The combo was supposed to have clams, mussels, crab, lobster, shrimp, corn on the cob, red potatoes, garlic Cuban bread. I had one edible clam, the others did not open, it had 2 shrimp, three potatoes a crab claw in a garlic broth. Everything was Luke warm at best. The server smiled briefly but was curt with our large party. This is a popular place, but I don't get the hype. I'm hoping maybe next time I come to Key West to visit again. read more
I came here for a guys trip and I was impressed with the oyster selection. I tried the steamed and raw oysters. The Rockefella oysters were good too but they had a little too much cheese on them. The main course was this fish sandwich which was decent but could have used a unique sauce. The service was good for how busy it was. Our server lived in the area for many years and seemed to be able to suggest many different dishes. The inside seemed to be designed like other seafood spots read more
3 months ago
Food was great very fresh and tasty. The service was amazing. She was super sweet and nice! I will be back when I come back around here. Try HOT LIPS! read more
Great place to pass the day away. Try to sit closest to the marina and watch the boat traffic, look down and you can see fish in the water as the water is so clear. Listen to the great music being piped in. Jimmy Buffett was on it. It was perfect. This is Key West at its finest. Just sitting here you could forget your own name. Service was attentive, polite, and fun natured. For lunch, the seafood appetizer consisting of fritters, shrimp and calamari, hit the spot @ $17.95 I loved the local draft beer on tap Parking can be a little pricey, but what else isn't in Key West. You can park right in front, $6.00 for two hours. This place is also good for groups or families. Great music being piped through. This had the island vibe at 100%. This is always one of my favorite stops when in Key West read more
3 months ago
Annette at the AC bar was great! Very attentive and keep our group laughing and on our toes. We look forward to our next Sunday visit! read more
10 months ago
This restaurant/bar is located at the far end of the marina. It has a great locals vibe but the tourists seem to find their way here for delicious seafood. I knew they offered an Oyster Shooter in a take home souvenir shot glass and since I collect shot glasses on vacation, I had to order that first. I sat at the bar right next the the guy shucking the oysters and clams so I actually watched the fresh oyster being dropped into the bottom of the glass. Next went in was a spoonful of their cocktail sauce finished off by a 1oz. shot of their housemade jalapeño vodka. Down I gulped and it was so good. I happened to be dining on Thanksgiving Day at their bar so everyone was extra friendly and in a holiday spirit. The couple next to us ordered the Clams Casino and shared it with all of us. I thought they were well cooked but a little heavy on the garlic. The Blackened Black Grouper sandwich served on Cuban Bread was fantastic and the homemade dill pickle was so good as well as the Cole Slaw. The Conch Ceviche was tender with a decent amount of fresh conch but it was way overpowered by red onion. After a few bites, I had to start to knock them off my fork because it was just too much. I liked that the red and green peppers were fresh cut and with a little of their own branded hot sauce, it was something I might order again. They take reservations and have plenty of open air inside seating and booth stay seating outside. They also sell TShirts, Koozies, and other restaurant branded items. read more
3 months ago
If you're lucky enough to have Annette as your bartender, you're in for a great time! She's hilarious, keeps everyone laughing, and somehow always knows exactly when you need another drink. Her service is fast, friendly, and she makes everyone feel welcome. Great personality, great attitude, and she definitely makes the experience even better. Highly recommend sitting at her bar!t read more
Food, drinks, ambience and service all was good! We love the place! If you like the sea food you have to visit Half Shell Raw Bar. The place near by sea but the sun and weather doesn't allow you to watch out. They have curtains to protect. There is no AC, too much fan blowing it makes you feel better. Otherwise you can sit anywhere. We took oysters, conch, shrimp, grouper! All was pretty delicious, fresh. . Again you can bring your fish and they cook it for you! . Aida look after us. She was nice and kind! Thank you to her! . Happy hour every day between 4:30-6:30pm . The banana cream colada was tasty! İ dont know how much calorie is this! . There is also patio on the front. This is also nice place for sit there... read more
Half Shell is a picturesque spot on the water that serves unbelievably fresh seafood and raw bar options at a typical price point for the area. While the food is great and the view is spectacular, the only downside is the price point aligns with higher options like the steak and seafood houses in the area. The only thing that keeps it from 5 stars unfortunately... but you are paying for the location and view as well as the food. Our server was fantastic, friendly and full of recommendations as well as helping us with the curtains to block the sun but not our view. To us, the price was worth the experience to dine waterside and have the fresh catch of the day. While we enjoy cold water oysters to the gulf ones, they were large and meaty. I can see why people are not happy with the price point but I think it's still a great option for food with a view. No complaints from us. Key lime pie was a bit too sweet vs tart for my taste but I had to try it! read more
7 months ago
Good menu and seafood Choices. Had the fresh tuna salad and oyster po boy. Tuna salad could've been colder but personal choice. I should had opted out of the cheese on the poor boy and the oysters were delish after removing the cheese. Michelle our server was the best. Her service was what made this visit great. The place is exactly what we expecting from Key West. Here is the menu. Sat inside by the dock. Enjoyed the view. read more
Had really no time to spare, but wanted to get a quick half dozen oysters before we ran to airport. Bartender was super happy to oblige, and we had our sea slugs out in less than five minutes. In less time that that we were checked out and out the door! Much appreciated fast friendly service and tasty mf'in osyters!! read more
3.5 stars because we had two different experiences on two different visits. Located on the busy Mallory Square in Key West, half Shell Raw Bar is a boisterous dive bar/Tiki hut with terrible drinks in my opinion but some really fresh seafood. On both visits, we tried their fresh oysters, which were amazing including delicious sweet cold water oysters from the East Coast, as well as the plump Gulf oysters, Served with a great mignonette. We also tried their oysters Rockefeller and they were equally delicious with nice lemony, spinach and Parmesan cheese on top. We also tried their steamed mussels , which were just OK and we had a half pound of the peel and eat shrimp which I didn't care for because they were a little bit mushy & had no seasoning . Also had the Deep fried snapper sandwich was also average a As it was smothered in way too much cheese for my taste. Not sure that I would return and their cocktails definitely need some work. Service was basically good. read more
4 months ago
Oysters and clams were great. Lobster egg rolls and calamari were fantastic.conch ceviche was on point. Our server gave service with a smile. Ambiance is like an old oyster shack . We will be back. read more
15 days ago
6 months ago
We came here based on the recommendation of a local and it did not disappoint. The location is good and near the harbor. You will get some outdoor breeze if you sit near a window or door. It can get warm and humid inside, so try to get a seat with some air flow. The drinks were good and flowed frequently when we visited during happy hour. The seating at the bar can get busy because this is the spot to go to. I really enjoyed the casual and friendly service from the bartenders. They were nice and welcoming to visitors. My favorite item here was their raw oysters (from north and local). read more
11 months ago
4.5 stars. Love love this spot. Come for happy hour and sit by the bay. Must get: Gulf oysters. So fresh. Get at least a dozen Clam in a bucket. So fresh and tasty with white wine sauce SOLID: Conch fritters. Worth trying given that it's a big deal in keywest but it's decent. SKIP: Steamed mussels: we sent it back given that it was rubbery. Viognier by the glass was excellent. read more
5 months ago
Excellent Seafood, i've been coming here for years in Key West, FL. Always get the fish dip and Seafood Platter. read more
5 months ago
We had a week in Key West in April 2026. We went here the first day and fell in love with the garlic steamed clams as well as the friendly and helpful staff. We came back two more times to play the shuffleboard table. It is not full 22 feet, maybe 18. But it is nicely adjusted and has consistent speed with good powder. They had run out so we brought our own. The table is dead flat. You can throw straight down the rail, both sides, both ends. The folks we played with were fun and good players. Meanwhile the drinks and seafood were excellent. read more
5 months ago
We had the catch of the day which was Mahi and Yellow Grouper. Very fresh and the mahi was outstanding. We sat outside and threw our shrimp peels to the waiting grouper swimming around. The frozen drinks weren't the best in the world so I'd skip those and get something else! Overall we really enjoyed it read more
3 months ago
7 months ago
Great atmosphere at this Oyster Bar that is situated right on the marina in Key west. The drinks and food were great. I highly recommend the 5 O'clock Somewhere from the signature drinks. They also offer a Kenny Chesney signed fishbowl! The oysters were delicious and not miniatures at all. The excellent natical decor including license plates all over gave the right feels for a destination beach town experience, that was perfect for a beautiful Florida day. read more
10 months ago
This place gets so many average reviews and I am shocked and cnnot figure out why. We went twice while on our trip to Key West, both times at happy hour. We had great drinks and the oysters were some of the best we have ever had - and half price!! The service was great and we sat close to the water. Fabulous time. We will be back when in Key West again. read more
2 months ago
9 months ago
Rough. I get it, it's a touristy place and expectations should be low. But everything we ordered - scallops, conch fritter soup, calamari - terrible. Couldn't eat any of them. The redskin potatoes were good....the ear of corn was good. Until we saw it was rotted at the end of the ear. That was the final straw. read more
10 months ago
Great little place on the water to enjoy some Oysters and peel and eat shrimp. Service was great and friendly I would recommend this place to anyone heading to Key West. read more
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More info about Half Shell Raw Bar
231 Margaret St
Key West, FL 33040
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(305) 294-7496
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http://www.halfshellrawbar.com
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Ask the Community - Half Shell Raw Bar
Is this close enough to the cruise port to walk or do you need to catch a taxi?
Yes. A couple blocks away.
Is this a place to watch an NFL GAME. IF NOT, what the most upscale sports bar in downtown?
It's a good place to watch a game. I wouldn't call it upscale but it had plenty of tv's, good view, and great food.
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