First Flight Island Restaurant & Brewery

The restaurant has a unique historical atmosphere and a pleasant setting, which makes the visit memorable. The food was tasty and well-presented, and the service was attentive and friendly. However, the prices are on the higher side, so it may not be the best option if you are looking for a casual or budget-friendly dining experience. Overall, it is a nice place to visit for the atmosphere and quality, but be prepared for higher costs.

We really enjoyed our recent dinner at First Flight while on vacation. We started with their DI PARMA flatbread which was phenomenal. I chose their fish tacos for main dish. They were a little spicy but tasted great. My husband had their swordfish & was very happy with his choice. The atmosphere is so enjoyable & they have a beautiful outdoor seating area. Service was a little slow off the start, but I didn't have to cook or wash dishes! There was a wedding taking place upstairs which was neat to watch. Definitely recommend a visit.

Great food! Loved the presentation of the corn appetizer! Beer was pretty good. Seating area outside was really nice, but could have used some additional fans. Would eat there again!

Loved the outdoor seating, Sitting under banyon trees. We opted for appetizers for a light lunch. Smoked fish dip was so good, and was the tuna poke. Great service, not rushed

Stopped in for a light lunch in this delightful, shaded outdoor courtyard. We shared a few appetizers which were all excellent. The outdoor seating was very shady and comfortable. The service was excellent, attentive but not rushed. Highly recommend.

Came here on a family trip and celebrating our 10 year wedding anniversary. Relaxing but lively brick open courtyard, refreshing drinks and beers, great service, food and vibes. Highly recommend!

If you’re looking at this review don’t hesitate to go to this great restaurant! Everything was great! Bathrooms were clean and atmosphere was perfect!

Great vibes and super easy going. We sat in the courtyard on a beautiful day and enjoyed several of their locally crafted beers. The Bavarian pretzel was fresh and warm and the breaded jerk wings were delicious. We will definitely come back the next time we are visiting Key West.

The restaurant sign says "Birthplace of Pan American World Airways". American style food with a brewery inside. Loved the airplane propellers and old black & white airplane walls photos. While customers wait to be seated they can browse a room of merchandise called the Hangar (like an airplane hangar) filled with shirts, hats and even glassware bearing the First Flight logo. Ordered the Brewery Burger and fries. The burger was big and juicy and the steak fries were presented in a metal cup. Huge outside patio perfect for big parties, which we had here four years ago. Tonight did not need a reservation and six of us sat inside due to the extreme humidity on the patio. Lots to look at with moderately priced food. The servers are called "Flight Crew". The bathroom was clean with two urinals, a separate closed stall and a modern deep white sink.

First Flight has a cool vibe and a great atmosphere--definitely a nice spot to unwind in Key West. The food here is absolutely top tier. I had the deviled eggs and the brisket mac & cheese, and both were fantastic. The pretzel bites were also on point. Props to the chef--seriously, they're crushing it in the kitchen. Drinks were good too, and the happy hour prices made it a solid deal overall. I also tried the key lime pie. It was good, but it didn't have that classic, traditional key lime pie taste you expect down here. Still enjoyable, just a little different. Now for the downside: the service. Happy hour runs from 4-6 PM but only applies if you're at the bar or high-top tables--which they don't tell you until after you're seated. It's not posted anywhere, and that's super frustrating. On top of that, no one gave us a happy hour menu--I had to go find one myself. Honestly felt like we were an inconvenience more than guests. If they tightened up the service and were more upfront about happy hour rules, this place could easily hit 5 stars. But for now, 3 stars for great food and drinks, with some clear room for improvement.

The ambience and service was great. The food tasted amazing But the cons were you get eaten alive by mosquitos, and you have to fight off the swarm of flies from landing on your food. The worst part is being careful not to eat any pork due to allergic reactions, only to vomit everything when I got back to my hotel room.

Neat little area this brewery is tucked into! There's shops and other restaurants around, also plenty of little sites to see. Beer is good, but they seem to be more into cocktails and such. Didn't try the food, but the menu looked good! Service was really nice. Parking is on the street.

Excellent snack stop and great service! Igor was an excellent bartender and we loved the atmosphere.

I wish I could give 3.5 stars, because we really enjoyed ourselves and the pretzel was fabulous! The service was adequate too. It was the beer that left much to be desired. As a beer snob, I have a hard time giving it a rave review. It wasn't bad by any means but definitely not great. Don't take any high expectations with you about your taste buds being blown away by the brews.

Great location just two blocks off Duval street. The Pan Am themed restaurant has vast history and has a full service brewery. Love the scenery for excellent Instagram videos and pictures. The fish tacos were fresh and tender and the Tito's cocktail was tasty. The server was polite but basic condiment requests were too confusing. The money was worth the atmosphere alone.

The ahi tuna poke appetizer was fresh and was served with plantain chips that were slightly crispy but kind of chewy. The mahi fish tacos with beans and rice were substantial enough for two people to share. The IPA beer was slightly bitter but the key lime cider was very good. The decor with the aviation theme was like walking into a museum. The server was friendly enough but messed up our friend's order. Overall, it was a good experience worthy of repeating.

Place is great menu is great! My date was extra and really enjoyed it! If that tells you anything! I thought the place was lovely great food and drinks but the extra was even loving it more and more Welcome to the xtra and well done I'll be going to another place soon

I was really craving a burger and swung by First Flight late one evening. The courtyard is gorgeous and the vibes were so good! I was seated immediately and my server came by within 2 minutes. I got the brewery burger which was solid. I think it needed something like more greens or a tomato for added freshness but the crispy onion ring and bacon were really good! The steak fries were not my fave but that's not my fry preference. If you are into beer they have a ton of options!

During our trip to Key West, we made reservations for dinner at the First Flight Island Restaurant and Brewery. It was a wise decision! We loved our meal! We sat outside in the back courtyard, watching the chickens and roosters roam for crumbs. It's a gorgeous lush backyard that makes each table feel private. Since it's a brewery, we needed to try some beer. I went for the passion fruit and pineapple version. The smaller cups are only $5! So affordable! For dinner, we all enjoyed our meals. I got the burger and fries, which were cooked to perfection and very tasty. The burger comes with an onion ring on it, which I find delightful. I also love the history of the restaurant, tying into PanAm's first ticket sale for an international flight between Key West and Cuba. So fun!

4.5 stars. Service was excellent, food was very good and not terribly priced for the area. Only reason it looses a star is because a handful of options were not actually available. Awesome location being in the original Pan Am building!

First flight was a fun experience The fish tacos and tuna poke was very very good. Their IPA beer was extremely refreshing I would hikely recommend stopping in and look at the aviance of the First Pan Am American international flight office from 1927 , then grab some lunch or dinner.

Long time visitor first time reviewing! We have been coming to First Flight since before its name changed. (Kelly's). Whenever I am asked for where to eat or drink- this is where I tell people to go. The waitstaff are amazing- especially at the bar. The restaurant itself is beautiful and exactly what you think of when imagining a bar in Key West. So tropical and relaxing. Omg I want to be there right now! I love the bruit rose and their beer is great. Brisket Mac and cheese is a must here. I also recommend the wedge salad and any of the flatbreads. The pretzel is huge and their deviled eggs are also delicious. A word of caution: drinks are amazingly fantastic but strong. Slippery slope! We visited twice this trip and I would have gone again. Make this a must go on your list.

This place is a gem! This building is the location of the original Pan Am Airways ticket office "back in the day". Now, it is an inviting microbrewery that serves incredible food. We had the fish tacos and key lime pie. Yes, to die for! Key lime pie was the best I've had in KW, ever! Pain Killer was incredible (rum drink). Service was great and wait staff very friendly. The atmosphere gives you the vibe of getting ready to board your flying boat for a journey deep into the Caribbean Ocean and S America. Great place to try!

Nice outdoor patio with a wide selection of food choices, especially for a brewery. We arrived at our table and within 30 seconds of each other, two waiters arrive. They then decide to passive aggressively fight over the table for the first 20 minutes. Then latee, neither seemed all that interested in it. Tile fish special was good, but $50. The fish and chips were okay. However the beer was a little flat and not at all cold. I wish I had gone elsewhere.

Been here many times and always a great experience! Their craft beer is really good. Tonight I had a special, which was swordfish on rice with broccolini and it was very tasty. My wife had the Seafood Fettucini and all but licked the bowl! Service was efficient. Didn't dig the music they were playing, soft club-type music, but the was my only gripe. To me, this place evokes a soft jazz or light piano or Frank Sinatra tunes.

Love the theming of this place. The building is an old Pan-Am airline ticket office and they have kept the airplane theming as well as some historical artifacts around the restaurant. Love the prop plane ceiling fan! Great happy hour menu too.

This is a great stop for a food and beer or just to be at the original ticket office for the first international Pan American Airlines flight to Havana. The food was incredible and you will not be disappointed with your decision to walk a short distance off Duval Street.

Soo disappointed with this place. Loved the idea of the theme in the old historic building, but the food was not good. Most of it tasted microwaved (including the steak. Yuck). Buffalo wings were crazy hot. Brisket Mac n cheese was not appetizing and luke warm. Giant pretzel was probably the best part of the meal. Even the beers were not great. Not very cold and options limited for a brewery. Our server was very nice but slow. If I were to do it again, I would stick to the bar area and stay with more bar-type food (and the happy hour which you can't take advantage of in the dining area). It's not a good spot for sit down/more formal dining in my opinion. Way overpriced for what you get and again, food is not appetizing at all.

Food was overpriced and not good at all. Limp salads and dry meat. The service was subpar. Server disappeared for long period of time. The ambience is lovely under beautiful trees close to Mallory square. I will not return

We have never been here before but we had tickets during Fantasy Fest to watch the main parade on their front porch. Tickets included a buffet-style dinner and an open bar from 6-9. The view was perfect for my wife and I in a 2 seat table but there were other couples that had 4 in their party and they enjoyed the view just the same. The food was amazing for labeling it a 'buffet'. We had salad, roasted chicken, sweet plantains, grilled Mahi, grilled vegetables, and a roasted pig that they turned into pulled pork. I couldn't believe it, as usually when we go to 'things like these' the food is terrible and the drinks are worse. Here is was the complete opposite. When we come back down to Key West, we are coming back for either lunch or dinner. The place is nice, huge and the staff was nothing shy of awesome. I truly encourage you to give them a try!

All the way from Texas, I recommend you stop in! Get you the Key Lime Pie, and a Micro Brew. Havana Red is an excellent beer to start your afternoon. Excellent staff and I will come back! RF 2025

My favorite thing about First Flight is the laid back atmosphere, outdoor bar scene with a TV! I was able to enjoy drinks, the NCAA men's basketball tournament and also take in nature simultaneously. The drinks were okay, appetizers and burgers very tasty! The fish dip was delicious as were the raviolis (both on Happy Hour menu) as well as the deviled eggs. The fries are thick cut, crispy and tasty! Parking is a bit difficult to find but that's a given in Key West. There is a parking lot just diagonal on Caroline St. The service was decent. They could be a bit friendlier. Maybe next time.

Were on our walk to another restaurant and traipsed by this looked and the menu and saw that it was also a brewery and changed our minds. We had brisket mac and the deviled eggs and jalapeños and red amber beer. Service was quick and frequently checked on us and refilled glasses. Food was great, the deviled eggs are a must. This dude apparently works here making sure guests don't leave messes

Beautiful beer garden, friendly service. We went for happy hour, had two different beers and a couple bites. Pretzels and fried ravioli were both wonderful. The beer was ok, we're from northern CA beer country so we have specific taste and this didn't quite match. Would still go again for food and atmosphere.

Great food, beers and wonderful outdoor Key West vibe. One of favorites to hit up when we visit. Lots of beers meld with a tropical vibe. Personally love the Havana Red. Friendly staff who are always attentive and accommodating.

Sat at a bar table. Bartender took our order then never came back. Both bartenders looked at their phone the whole time. Someone else brought our food. We got up to refill our water. No one ever asked how everything was or checked on us until the bill came. Good food terrible service. Would not recommend.

The service was not very good at all! Waitress did not speak English and it was her first day on the job! Food was alright. Burgers were undercooked and there were birds, wasps and spiders all around us on the inside. We were practically watching a bug show. I will never come back and she charged extra for a drink we didn't get and even after messing up our orders 3 times she still charged for everything!

"J" (yup from MIB) he's got such a nice smile was our server. Great Ahi tuna and we hate everyone's. We'll be back!

Great bartender! Cold drinks. Tropical feel. At midday it was the coolest place to be and still be outside.

The scallop appetizer which has a chorizo risotto w/ street corn was one of the BEST dishes I've had in a really long time! Please don't take it off the menu!

I wrote a review last year when we first stumbled upon First Flight, but I needed to write a follow up! We came across First Flight when wandering through downtown Key West looking for a cocktail and a snack. We walked in and sat the bar, first thing you notice is all the Navy inspired decoration and the beer mugs hanging everywhere. Fun fact: these mugs belong to the Navy pilots stationed at the base there! We enjoyed FF so much, that we came back many more times and brought family along too! Every food item and drink we tried, were delicious. The atmosphere is super fun and cool. If you're looking for a chill place to sip a cocktail or have a meal/snack in Key West I highly recommend First Flight!

First flight was very good, great place to go later in the evening as the outdoor atmosphere is very nice. Ordered the salad, which was fantastic. The shrimp was black and perfectly. Also had the taco, it was middle of the road, I know the type of fish they use is hard to get very flavorful. I would go back again for sure !

We had a great experience as we were exploring, Key West, and we were lucky to find this place! If you were looking for good appetizers, unique beverages, and a chill place, this is your spot! Our waiter was very attentive, and we appreciated his recommendations! Try: brisket mac & cheese

Great location but importantly a historic location. You'd think they'd play up the PanAm history much more but I wonder if it's a trademark issue Regardless, central and easy to get to from the main drag in Key West. Prompt service and great patio seating. You must try the large pretzel. It's delicious and fresh and such a great snack and appetizer. The sandwiches are average to above average but the location and friendly service adds to an overall memorable experience

Our bartender Nick was awesome! We went for their amazing happy hour. Had margaritas, fried ravioli, fish, dip, hummus, deviled eggs, and pretzel bites. Went inside for dinner afterwards, lol. Everything was on point!

We visited First Flight on Christmas Eve and had a great experience! It's a really casual, comfortable space inside with fantastic staff. Carolyn was our waitress but EVERYONE who works in the dining room is extremely friendly and attentive to every table. The food was fantastic ... we started off with the Deviled Eggs (comes with deep fried jalapeños) and some excellent Clams in an amazing beer broth. Definitely grab the clams! For dinner we had the swordfish which was very good BUT the whole fried Red Snapper was OFF THE CHARTS! The best flavor ever, and unbelievably moist! Highly recommend First Flight -- and we'll be back!

This is a good bar it is not a good restaurant, especially not for dinner. The dinner menu is overpriced and they are not prepared to deliver on that level of cuisine. Stick to the flatbread, do not attempt anything more grand. You will end up with an overpriced pile of garbage. The seafood fettuccine had tiny bits of shells. The $50 steak was chewy. The lobster tail was frozen, like from Publix, and overcooked. Save yourself and stick to the flatbread. Head to Duvall for a cocktail instead.

Bartender was extremely rude. We went there Monday April 21,2025. My friend asked for a hazy beer, he gave her a sample of one that he said was a hazy. she said it was OK and asked for one that was a hazy unfiltered beer(which apparently they don't have, which is fine) he looked at the bartender next to him and said "I don't give a shit,It's the end of the night. I don't make the beer,l just sell it." We couldn't believe how rude her was and we promptly walked out! Not sure how you can have people work for you like that!

Yes yes yes!!! Go go go!!! Ambiance - absolutely beautiful. Ask for a table in the outdoor courtyard. The waitress was very nice, and really went out of her way to speak to the kitchen about gluten free alternatives. Our favorite dishes was the appetizer- scallops. And the main course - the lobster. The only item they didn't have as a gluten free option is dessert. That's the only reason why I gave it 4 stars. It's not hard to at least have ice cream for gluten free choice. But overall - we will go back.

Four of us were just seated for dinner. Water was poured and we all decided on our desired meals. However, after pouring the water, we were never acknowledged. Nobody even took a drink order (which is disappointing because I have heard good things about their beer). We were ignored for 20 minutes (while other tables, who arrived after us, were allowed to place both food and drink orders) and then decided to leave, without ever having the opportunity to order one thing. We mentioned the issue to someone on the way out; I'm sure he did not care. On a positive note, it smelled amazing. If you're not hungry, it might be your kind of place.

The food here was inedible. Staff was nice and removed the items from the bill that were not good. The brussel sprout appetizer and the risotto that came with the lobster specifically were not good. The price point for well below average food is criminal at this place. Also, a simple gin and soda was made very poorly, which is nearly impossible for a two ingredient drink.

Had a nice meal here- the brisket Mac and cheese is yummy as well as the fish dip and the fish tacos were okay (there are better in KW). But the ambiance and beverages and our server Sofia - on her first day- were terrific. Recommend!

Really cool restaurant and bar in Key West. Based at the first office for United airlines. As an aviation buff I found that really cool! Great outdoor seating area. Service was good. Beer was great! We got some of the appetizers at the table. Everything was great! I will come back here for sure when we are back in Key West!

The chicken was rubber, (in my 45 years. I have never tasted chicken like that ) and the fish had no taste - out brie appetizer was even worse if that's possible. Tourist trap.

A disappointment. We were getting acclimated to slow service as a norm but this really dragged! And the food was uneven at best. Fish tacos were dry and flavorless. Chicken on the salad tasted microwaved. The apps were better - we had the wings and scallops. Overall too pricey for the quality and service. H

Outstanding food and service. We were so impressed how the staff handled the Xmas slam, they filled the restaurant all at once and did it with grace, delicious food, cocktails and ambiance. Greatly appreciated the hard work and wonderful experience. Cheers to the entire staff.

Cool decor/theme and a lovely patio -- what more could you want in Key West? The service was friendly and they accommodated a group of 8 people on short notice. Not the quickest, but they were busy so it's a pass. I also had one of my best meals in Key West here. The food actually tasted like it had high-quality ingredients and was fresh. Definitely would go back.