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We Bring the Florida Keys Life to You!
Papa Joe’s of Islamorada is more than a brand—it’s a legacy. With roots dating back to 1969, Papa Joe’s has been synonymous with the rich flavors, vibrant culture, and laid-back lifestyle of the Florida Keys. Founded as Ev Fowler’s Caribee Basin, the business was rebranded as Papa Joe’s in 1969 by Joe Miller. In 1982, Mr. and Mrs. George R. Gehrkens purchased Papa Joe’s, transforming it into a celebrated hub for award-winning Florida Keys cuisine and heartfelt hospitality.
A Family Tradition of Excellence
Under the care of the Gehrkens family, Papa Joe’s became a beloved institution, serving the authentic flavors of the Keys to locals and visitors alike. However, due to economic challenges and family illness, the original Papa Joe’s location closed its doors in 2006 and transitioned to “Mangrove Mike’s on the Bay.” Despite this, the Gehrkens family preserved the heart of the business, continuing to serve Papa Joe’s Award Winning Florida Keys gourmet cuisine at festivals and events nationwide.
Today, the Gehrkens’ sons proudly uphold the family tradition, sharing the same award-winning recipes and commitment to quality that made Papa Joe’s a Florida Keys icon.
Important Notice: No Affiliation with Papa Joe’s Waterfront
We want to clarify that a new business, Papa Joe’s Waterfront, has been established at the location where our original business once stood. While the name may seem familiar, we want to stress that Papa Joe’s of Islamorada has absolutely no affiliation with this new business. Our legacy remains firmly rooted in the traditions and standards established by the Gehrkens family, and we continue to serve our loyal customers through our own operations, including festivals, events, and our expanding brand offerings.
Expanding the Legacy: Florida Keys Life
In addition to our cuisine, we’ve launched Florida Keys Life, a lifestyle apparel line inspired by the vibrant spirit of the islands. This collection captures the essence of the Florida Keys lifestyle, offering high-quality, stylish designs that reflect the beauty, adventure, and freedom of the islands. Whether you’re lounging by the water or embracing everyday adventures, Florida Keys Life helps you carry a piece of paradise wherever you go.
Preserving a Tradition of Excellence
While the original Papa Joe’s building may no longer stand, the Gehrkens family remains dedicated to upholding the high standards that have defined our brand for decades. From our award-winning cuisine to our tropical beachwear line, we proudly bring the best of the Florida Keys to you.
A Rich History, A Vibrant Future
Our story is deeply intertwined with the history and culture of the Florida Keys—a place of natural beauty, adventure, and relaxation. The Gehrkens family continues to honor this legacy with every dish we serve and every product we create.
Through Papa Joe’s World Famous Florida Keys Cuisine and Florida Keys Life Tropical Beachwear, we’re proud to share the flavors, style, and spirit of the islands with the world.
We Bring the Florida Keys Life to You
Whether you’re enjoying our bold cuisine or embracing the Keys lifestyle with our apparel, we invite you to be part of the Papa Joe’s story—a story of family, tradition, and the magic of the islands.
Taste the Islands. Wear the Life. Love the Keys.
Explore our Florida Keys Life apparel at www.flkeyslife.com and join us as we celebrate the rich heritage of the Florida Keys while carrying on the traditions that make Papa Joe’s of Islamorada a name you can trus
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© Papa Joe’s of Islamorada, Florida Keys is owned and operated by Papa Joe’s of Islamorada LLC. All rights reserved 2014-2024.