The Good Life (1100 Packer St., 305/296-8484, 6–10 p.m. Tues.–Sun., main courses from $18) is a quiet off-the-strip spot that newcomers may have a hard time finding, but the food here has developed such a reputation that it’s rumored that diners have been willing to make the trek from Miami just for dinner. The restaurant is run by two local artists, and the atmosphere is exceedingly laid-back; the food, however, is anything but. The menu selections are deceptively simple—fish tacos, seared scallops topped with goat cheese, chimichurri skirt steak—but the preparations are absolutely exceptional. Pasta dishes and vegetarian options are also available.

Alonzo’s Oyster Bar (700 Front St., 305/294-5880, 11 a.m.–11 p.m. daily, main courses from $10) is a good choice for those looking for raw-bar selections and a respite from the constant buzz of Duval Street. Located on the waterfront at Key West Bight and downstairs from the much fancier A&B Lobster House, the evening happy-hour specials and fresh bivalves draw a considerable crowd here. Beyond oysters, Alonzo’s offers soups, sandwiches (including a great lobster sandwich), and a standard array of fried pub grub.

Nine One Five (915 Duval St., 305/296-0669, 6–11 p.m. daily, entrées from $16) is a hip contemporary tapas restaurant with a range of plates that includes Thai beef salad rolls, steak frite, grilled short ribs, seared whole snapper, filet mignon carpaccio, and much more. The menu’s blend of meat, fish, and even vegetarian dishes has a little something for everyone, and the stylish atmosphere comes with an appropriately stratospheric price tag. Upstairs is Point5, a wine lounge with more than 20 wines available by the glass.