Heading down to the Florida Keys

Might as well stop in mainland Florida for beer before heading to the Keys..that would make the most sense.

BTW, haven't been to Marathon in years but absolutely loved that place. Stayed in Hawk's Kay for 5 years in a row.

 

What is route you're taking? If you're driving then a few places coming to mind while you pass through Miami. Once you're down in the keys there isn't much in the way of craft beer.

 

When I went to the Keys last summer they really didn't have anything special.

 

Keys = Rum. It was all rum all the time. Craft was limited to Sam Adams and...that's was about it when I was there last time, at least where I visited. That and, well.....Landshark. Yeah. There's probably some Monroe county gems with craft. I did not find them

 

Cigar City is getting more and more distribution. I see it in grocery stores more often when in Florida and not just places like Total Wine.

 

I saw Stone and Dogfish at the stores there.

 

I was more referring to bars I visited, so good to know it's not a total wasteland! Thanks!

 

stop at any publix supermarket and youll find all fresh canned core cigar city (jai alai, maduro, cracker, helles, invasaion)

 

If you're in ft. lauderdale already you have to check out Funky Buddha in oakland park...on the way down to the keys Wynwood is pretty cool (its got a very Miami vibe)...once you get off the mainland you have miami brewing which is on the same property as schnebly winery..i have never personally been there..but i heard its very nice.

 

I'm down in Duck Key (right outside Marathon) right now. Flew into Ft. Lauderdale and picked up some brews from the Total Wine there, but was also able to grab some two week old Jai Alai from the Publix in Marathon. Stopped at Funky Buddha after leaving the airport and second the opinion of having to check it out (their Last Snow was phenomenal, like a liquid coffee Almond Joy).

There's a couple good craft bars in Key West if you make the trip down there, but other than that it's pretty slim pickings for craft beer at restaurants.

 

Right before the 18 mile stretch into Key Largo there's a a place called Checkers Discount Liquors. It's on the south end of Florida City. They have a decent selection. Martinis in Islamorada got Puppy's Breath, white Oaks and Humidor Sour and I seem to be the only one buying them. Puppy's Breath is all gone though.

 

Also this may be helpful.

http://www.vtinfo.com/PF/product_finder.asp?custID=04827

 

Last year it was scarce at this time, but after they expanded the brewery (September?) it became easier to find through out the state.

 

Walgreen's in Marathon had Jai Alai, Maduro & Cracker last time I was down.

 

I've seen many at the FBB.