Santiago's Bodega

Santiago's Bodega sits at 207 Petronia Street in Bahama Village, which means you have to want to find it. That is the first good sign. The space is dark, sensuous, and intimate in the way that great tapas bars should be. Founded in 2003 by Jason Dugan, it has become the spot that local foodies mention when tourists ask where they actually eat. The concept is globally inspired small plates, and the move is to order two to three per person and share everything.

Here is the surprise: Santiago's Bodega has one of the most varied wine lists in Key West. The staff travels to wine regions to curate the selection, which means you are not getting a distributor's greatest hits. The by-the-glass program is strong, and during happy hour (3 PM to 6 PM daily) wine is half-priced. That happy hour alone makes this a mandatory stop. Beer and wine only, no spirits, which means the wine list gets the full attention it deserves. They also make their own sangria, which is worth trying alongside the tapas.

The Yellowfin Tuna Ceviche with citrus, avocado, mango, and cilantro is the table-setter. Beef Carpaccio with truffle oil and shaved parmesan. Filet Mignon with Gorgonzola butter for when you want something substantial. And the Croissant Bread Pudding for dessert is the kind of thing that does not sound like it belongs on a tapas menu until you eat it and realize it was the best decision of the evening. Regular plates run $18 to $26, happy hour specials drop to $5 to $7.

Open daily 11 AM to 10 PM. Happy hour 3 to 6 PM with half-price wine and $5-$7 tapas specials. Reservations recommended, especially for groups of six or more. Fodor's calls it "a secret spot for local foodies in the know," which it was until everyone found out. Go early, grab the happy hour wine deal, and order more tapas than you think you need. Call (305) 296-7691.