Bongo's Botanical Beer Garden and Cafe — Restaurant in Marathon

DELIGHTFUL ISLAND VIBE! Oh my gosh we just left this DARLING restaurant and I’m in love! We had an excellent breakfast on 2/21/2022. The cheese omelette was cooked perfectly with just the right amount of cheese, not too much and not too little. We also had the pan au chocolate (chocolate croissant) which came to us warm and the outside was the perfect amount of crispy layered yummy-ness that a croissant should be. I had an iced mocha that was delicious! I initially ordered the Nitro Cold Brew but didn’t like it and they graciously and quickly offered to exchange. Big Ben was THE MAN! He has a truly kind and lovely spirit. He makes you feel welcome in such a genuine authentic way. He was a one man show today and managed everything with grace and kindness and efficiency. Another VERY important element they have nailed is their music! Too many places think that louder is better. We don’t patronize those places. Bongo’s plays wonderful island style music at the perfect level to provide a great vibe and patrons can carry on conversation. Well done!!! And the grounds! So inviting and island-y feeling! Corn hole. Large size Jenga. Conversation areas with sofas. Hammocks. Walk in here and feel at home and your stress level drop. Well curated selection of beer. Wine also served. I give this fine establishment my highest recommendation! *Edited to add: One reviewer mentioned the lack of sides with the meal. In contrast I appreciated VERY much not being tempted by too many empty calories!!! I ate the broiled tomato and greens on my plate. Tasty and healthy! My waistline appreciates healthy choices! God Bless...

Bongos Beer Garden is a true hidden gem in the Keys, and I’m so glad we stumbled upon it! From the moment we walked in, the laid-back atmosphere and great music made it the perfect place to unwind. It has that ideal Florida Keys vibe — casual, welcoming, and full of character. The food here blew me away. The quinoa salad was honestly one of the best I’ve ever had — super fresh with bold flavors, and the candied walnuts gave it that perfect sweet crunch. I also loved the tuna bowl; it was packed with fresh ingredients, and the edamame added a great texture and flavor balance.

What really set this place apart was the fun family-friendly setup — they had a floating water pad for kids to play on, which was such a cool touch. We even got to watch people wakeboarding nearby, adding to the laid-back, adventurous energy of the whole place. Whether you’re looking for a spot to chill with friends, entertain the family, or just enjoy some really great food in a cool setting, Bongos delivers. It quickly became my favorite spot in the Keys, and we can’t wait to come...

I had a little time on my way from Duck Key to Fort Lauderdale and stopped at Bongo's for an early lunch. What a great call! They were already fairly busy with a brunch crowd when I arrived, but everyone was laid back, very friendly and welcoming. I ordered the fish sandwich (Mahi Mahi) with sweet potato fries and a hoppy G13. My food came out in 10 or 15 minutes while I enjoyed the lovely island vibe of the place. My server was engaging and I enjoyed chatting with him. He knew his job and seemed authentically proud of the food they serve. And he should - it was hefty and incredible! The sweet potato fries needed nothing but to be eaten. The Mahi was thick and cooked beautifully, seasoned well and generously portioned. It was the perfect lunch to keep me going on a long travel day. I'm going to remember that fish sandwich for...