Taste on Taste on Taste!
We just got back from an amazing trip in the Florida Keys. Brandon and I spent 7 whole days driving through and stopping in different islands. Each day we woke up in a new part of the keys with so much to discover. One of my favorite parts of the trip was exploring new restaurants and eating their entire menu.
As we get older, some things are becoming more and more important to us. While we used to pick our restaurants based on the menu, we now are choosing restaurants based on their overall experience. There are a few things that this includes: setting, decor, atmosphere, customer service, and other diners. When we go to a restaurant we want to feel welcomed, not rushed, and invited to have a good time. At Ciao Hound in Islamorada, we got all of this and more.
I have never received this type of treatment before. While sharing some warm Italian bread, the manager, Chris came to our table with a bottle of champagne. He toasted us to our engagement and shared some of his menu favorites. He also recommended a few different places we should visit in the Florida Keys.
The Menu
When in the Florida Keys, you try everything Key Lime! Besides our champagne toast, we also tried the Key Lime Mojito. Surprisingly, it didn’t taste like a mojito at all! It was creamy and refreshingly sweet. It was perfectly balanced and not too ‘alcoholy’ – I don’t really like drinks where you can taste the booze.
Ciao Hound has a wide menu offering Italian and Island options. I loved that they had a few different options for vegans/vegetarians other than the typical salad. Italian food is my favorite, and we both love Parmigiana. So, tonight we tried the Eggplant Parmigiana and the Chicken Parmigiana. It was perfectly filling and I even had enough to bring back to our hotel.
We tried the Classic Tiramisu, Villa Dolce Gelato, and of course the 5 Layer Cake. The 5 Layer Cake was my absolute favorite. Being an Instagrammer there is nothing I love more than interactive plates. It’s served with a side of Ice Cold Malted Milk to pour over the cake. With or without the milk the cake is perfectly balanced and so delicious.
The Setting
Ciao Hound has both indoor and outdoor seating – however, the outdoor is much more favorable. They have both comfortable lounge style seating and typical table settings. If you’re in with a group of friends looking to share some drinks, apps, and laughs, I highly recommend sitting outside in their lounge section. Being in the Florida Keys with the beautiful weather, it was the perfect night to sit outdoors. Our table was nestled in the beautiful greenery and shade.
When you’re taking your road trip through the Florida Keys, be sure to stop at Ciao Hound in Islamorada, and tell them Monika sent you. You will be greeted with warm Italian bread, a cozy and inviting atmosphere, and a team that is warm and welcoming. Don’t forget to try the 5 Layer Cake, like I wish I had one right now…
