Break Loose From Your Chain

Island Dogs introduces a new night of chic to laid back Key West

2012-01-27T13:12:00.000-05:00

KEY WEST, Fla. (January 27, 2012) -- Kick off the flip flops and slip on some stilettos. Switch out the shorts for a little black dress. It's time to play dress up for Key West's hottest new night of chic!

Island Dogs introduces the Little Black Dress Party, the place to be the second Wednesday of every month from 8 p.m. starting Feb. 8. Sponsored by Ultimat Vodka, the sophisticated monthly event will feature $5 Ultimat Martinis all night and dance music by DJ Chaka.

"We're billing this as a night for local ladies to dress up and get out and party. You don't get a chance to do that much in Key West--dress up, that is," said general manager David Thibault. "Plus, it's for a good cause."

Each party features a raffle; 100% of raffle proceeds will benefit a local charity. On Feb. 8, the raffle will include a gift basket of Paul Mitchell hair and spa products, $100 gift card to the Pier House Caribbean Spa and a bottle of Ultimat Vodka.

Proceeds from the first event will go to the Key West Shrine Club, which supports treatment and transportation of Key West children to Shriner's Hospitals for Children. The hospitals treat pediatric medical cases at no cost.

Super Bowl football action at Island Dogs with the SoMo New England Pats Fan Club!

2012-01-25T12:15:00.000-05:00

KEY WEST, Fla. (January 25, 2012) -- Join the Southernmost New England Patriots Fan Club at Island Dogs for a Super Bowl Party -- New England style.

Only 61 pre-sale tickets are available at $75 per seat. Sale ends Jan. 31. Tickets after Jan. 31 will run $100.

Here's what you get:

A seat of your choice reserved (first come; first pick)
An official Super Bowl program from the actual game(!)
A bucket of Budweiser, Bud Light, Miller Light or Coors Light
A Maine lobster dinner with lobster flown in fresh from New England from Fresh Catch in Mansfield, Mass., the official seafood supplier of the New England Patriots(!) Dinner includes corn on the cob and baby red potatoes

Fresh Catch in Mansfield, Mass., is also the official seafood supplier for Island Dogs for the Super Bowl. It's going to be a Wicked Pissa Super Bowl Party at Island Dogs!

For more info on the event, come into Island Dogs for details or call 305-509-7136.

Little. Black. Dress.

2012-01-20T11:59:00.000-05:00

Ladies, get ready to rock that little black dress Key West style. Stay tuned next week for details!

Wicked Pissa Saturdays

2012-01-09T15:32:00.000-05:00

We're overnighting Ipswich clams straight from the Fish Market in Massachusetts just for the Pat's game this Saturday. That's the freshest catch flown straight to Key West. Know any other bars in town that do that?

And you're not just here for your good looks. Eat! Enjoy a bucket of beer and pissas special. The farther Pat's get the more fresh Ipswich clams you can expect.

In Ipswich's wild and beautiful coastal areas, clammers dig them from the flats by hand using simply a clam rake and a strong back -- just as they have for hundreds of years. These sweet softshell clams are beyond compare, traditionally steamed and served with their own clam broth. If you've never prepared this delicacy at home, it's very easy. We'll enclose foolproof directions for preparing your clam feast. Try steaming your clams in white wine or beer for a different taste. From the Ipswich Fish Market Site (so's the pic)

Yes, we love you guys.

Ugly Sweater Holiday Party 2012!

2011-12-23T11:37:00.000-05:00

In which you marvel at the ugliness of it all...

Hot ladies!

American Idol finalist Kristen McNamara to rock Island Dogs

2011-12-01T11:51:00.000-05:00

From the American Idol finalist stage to opening for the likes of Lonestar, Kenny Chesney and Winona Judd, Kristen McNamara--KMAC--is bringing her eclectic pop/adult contemporary/Country mix to the Island Dogs stage December 3 and 17 at 8 p.m.

KMAC

It's a fitting spot for the artist who's been compared to Stevie Nicks; KMAC, a prolific songwriter, drove to Key West from California in 2010 to write the song, Duval Street. She's now made Mile 0 her home.

This free-spirited northern California farmgirl left the ranch at 16, taking her four-octave range to top finalist spots in a slew of national competitions, including CBS' Star Search, USA's Nashville Star, and FOX's American Idol, and performing at Disney's Country Tonite. She recently did guide vocal work for Cher in the movie Burlesque and has spent several years in Nashville, holding underground singer/songwriter nights.

With five albums under her belt and over 10,000 record sales from the back of her car, McNamara is now working with New York production team, Peter Macchia and David Andronico, and traveling wherever inspiration, music and art take her and her teddy bear Ophelia.

Look out for more performances by KMAC at Island Dogs in the coming months.

Featured Drink: Key Lime Pie Martini

2011-11-25T14:51:00.000-05:00

Our signature drink was featured on HDNet's Drinking Made Easy. Want to try one on your own? Go for it!

Key Lime Pie Martini

Makes 3 drinks. Chill Martini glasses with ice and water. Add into a shaker:

4 count of Vanilla Vodka
Long pour Coconut Rum
3 count Lime Cream Liqueur
Splash of Lime Juice

Use fresh Key Lime wedges on the edge of the glass and coat with graham cracker crumbs. Garnish with lime wedge.

Fans howling for new Island Dogs Bar online store

2011-11-14T10:07:00.000-05:00

KEY WEST, Fla. (November 14, 2011) -- Rolling up to the Island Dogs Bar for some official swag is now possible from anywhere in the world with the launch of our new online store.

Now anyone with Internet access, spare change, and great taste in clothing can visit The Island Dogs Shop for Island Dogs paraphernalia, including T-shirts, ladies tank tops, the infamous Castro hat and even an Island Dogs tumbler with our nifty, standout logo.

"We gotten so many requests for Island Dogs stuff from new and loyal customers in Key West and abroad who can't make it to the bar to buy and we really wanted to meet that need," said Island Dogs General Manager David Thibault.

So what are you waiting for? Go get it!

Featured Halloween Drink: Black Martini

2011-10-31T13:27:00.001-04:00

You probably celebrated Halloween over the weekend, instead of leaving the tricking for today, but there's no reason you can't commemorate the day with a drink!

This Black Martini is really easy to make. You can find this recipe and others on About.com Cocktails.

This Black Martini replaces vermouth with either blackberry brandy or black raspberry liqueur (Chambord is a good choice). The drink will be dark, but not black-black, so another option is to make a Vodka Martini with Blavod, a black-colored vodka.

Black Martini

Photo Credit: Colleen Graham/About.com

Black Martini

Ingredients:
3 1/2 oz. gin or vodka
1/2 oz. blackberry brandy or black raspberry liqueur
Lemon twist for garnish

Preparation:

- Pour the ingredients into a cocktail shaker with ice.
- Shake well.
- Strain into a chilled cocktail glass or serve on the rocks in an old-fashioned glass.
- Garnish with a lemon twist.

Island Dogs rolls out new menu crafted by Chef Pat Dunn and launches outdoor oyster bar

2011-10-24T11:53:00.000-04:00

Chef Pat Dunn and Island Dogs' managers have been working tirelessly in the kitchen to perfect the bar's new and improved menu of munchies. This week, it launches.

"A lot of work, fun and taste-testing went into the new dishes' flavor combinations and we're happy with what we came up with," said General Manager David Thibault. "I think our customers' taste buds will be happy, too."

Vegetarian Pizza

Along with the new menu, Island Dogs customers will have their pick of fresh, char-grilled and Rockefeller oysters at the bar's new outdoor oyster bar on its breezy front porch.

The new menu features a host of new items:

- Soft Shell Crab Sandwich with Key Lime Mustard
- Jerk Chicken Sandwich with Mango Jalapeno Aioli and Rum-Soaked Onions
- Conch Fritters
- Rare Tuna Tataki with Asian Ginger Boiled Calamari and Seaweed Salad
- White Conch Chowder
- Key West Pizza with White Lobster-based sauce, Pepperoni, Shrimp and Pineapple

Leading the culinary side of the menu re-vamp was Chef Pat Dunn, also chef at Pat Croce's Rum Barrel.

"More than anything else, I'm excited to see customers' reactions when they taste what we've created," Dunn said. "It's just that good."

A Northeast Philadelphia native, Dunn made a name for himself as protege of Iron Chef Jose Garces
at Garces' acclaimed Latin-Asian restaurant Chifa in downtown Philly. Dunn is a graduate of The Culinary Institute of America. He joined Island Dogs in 2010 with a focus on crafting innovative and delicious cuisine with only the freshest available ingredients.

Island Dogs makes national TV on HDNET’s Drinking Made Easy

2011-10-17T12:06:00.001-04:00

Lamprey and Friends roll into the Conch Republic to Uncover Unique Drinking Specialties and Time Honored Cocktail Traditions in Key West -- Wednesday, October 26 on HDNet!

Island Dogs' Key Lime Pie
martini featured on the show

Pat Croce's Rum Barrel, Island Dogs Bar and the iconic The Green Parrot will all be featured in a new episode of HDNET's Drinking Made Easy with cult sensation Zane Lamprey, which airs Wednesday, October 26, at 8 p.m. ET.

"You'll see the show, but we had a blast!" Croce said. "Wait for when Steve's speech starts to slur!"

In this episode, Zane visits Key West, where he stops at several bars, including Croce's, sampling a Key Lime Pie Martini at Island Dogs; Rum Barrel's intimidating Kill Devil bucket cocktail; and a dangerous Bloody Mary at the Green Parrot, a Key West institution.

OFFICIAL KEY WEST VIEWING PARTY:
Where: The Rum Barrel Quarterdeck, 528 Front Street, Key West, FL 33040
When: Wednesday, October 26, from 7:30 p.m. ET
What: Extended $5 Happy Hour on food and drinks; 10% off the Kill Devil featured on the episode; stay to hear Colorado-based Celtic Pirate-Folk Rock Band Potcheen and Tony Baltimore

The show will also be shown live at Island Dogs and the Green Parrot.

The HDNet series features Lamprey and his drinking buddy Steve McKenna as they travel the U.S. in search of the local drinks and drinking customs that have contributed to the birth, growth and distinction of our great country. Definitely a road trip unlike any other, Lamprey and McKenna travel to cities like Monterey, Miami, Tampa, Cape Cod, Washington, D.C., Seattle, Santa Barbara and Aspen among many others. "Drinking Made Easy" airs Wednesday nights at 8:00 p.m. ET on HDNet.

HDNet networks are available nationally via DIRECTV and Dish Network and locally in Key West on Advanced Cable Communications, AT&T U-verse, Atlantic Broadband and Hotwire Cable Florida. Check your local listings for channels and more information.

Another version of this post also appeared on Rum Barrel's blog

Featured Drink: Caicos Cooler

2011-10-14T12:33:00.000-04:00

Here's a quick fact about rum: While there are rum producers in places such as Australia, India, Reunion Island, and elsewhere around the world, most rum production occurs in and around the Caribbean and along the Demerara River in South America.

Caicos Cooler

2 oz. Rum
1 oz. Cointreau
1/2 oz. Vodka
1/2 oz. Banana Liquor
2 oz. Orange Juice

Combine ingredients with ice in cocktail shaker and shake well. Pour into cocktail glass. Garnish with a maraschino cherry and a pineapple wedge.

A Tribute to Steve Jobs: The Steve Jobs Drink

2011-10-07T11:52:00.002-04:00

RIP, Steve Jobs

This week, the world lost a visionary and a change-maker when Steve Jobs died at 56. We came across this libation tribute to Jobs on Drink Philly and we're honored to share it with you.

The Steve Jobs Drink

4 oz. Apple Cider
2 oz. Whiskey
1/2 oz. Orange Liqueur (Combier preferred)
1/2 oz. Lemon Juice

Shake ingredients with ice, serve neat. Garnish with iPod Shuffle. Serve on an iPad.

Read the rest of the article on Drink Philly

The Lost Wedding Dress Cocktail

2011-09-23T16:46:00.002-04:00

You've probably heard about Sandra Scharf and her lost wedding dress adventure starring Island Dogs co-owner David Thibault.

Well, it inspired us to add a new drink to the Island Dogs menu--the Lost Wedding Dress! So without further ado, we reveal The Dress, created by our very own Liz Podlucky.

The Lost Wedding Dress

White wine

Ginger Ale

Topped off with Blue Curacao

Chilled served in a martini glass

Order one next time you stop by!

Dog Shoppe: Arrrooooo!

2011-09-16T11:56:00.000-04:00

We're in the middle of designing and launching our online Dog Shoppe so you can stock up on awesome Island Dogs gear even if you're not in Key West and without the ability to sidle up to the bar and drop some mulah down.

Anyway, here's a preview of just a couple things you'll soon be able to grab for yourself online. I've already ~~stolen~~ legitimately purchased a shot glass because it's honestly too cool for school. Lookit...

Bringing sexy back to shot glasses everywhere

Finding Bruschi

2011-09-08T10:15:00.002-04:00

After the whole wedding dress fiasco last week and the power of social media in reuniting the distraught bride with her lost dress, Island Dogs GM Dave Thibault went for a two-fer.

Bruschi. Arrroooo!

Thibault's adorable pup, aptly named Bruschi, was taken from his yard around 11 a.m. on September 3. Thibault posted on Island Dog's Facebook, asking fans to re-post on their walls and if anyone saw him to give Thibault a call.

When I checked in to see how things panned out, Thibault texted: "I did the same thing with Facebook as the dress. And it had everyone looking."

But Thibault's lovely wife Alysia ended up buying an Amber alert on FindToto.com (you can put an Amber Alert out for a pet. Who knew!) and Bruschi was returned within 20 minutes! The pup had only been missing for a day.

So it didn't quite work out again, trying to harness the power of social media, but it still had a happy ending!

If you're asking yourself, what's the point of this blog entry? Well, what's the name of the bar? Besides, we just wanted to post a picture of Bruschi. Welcome back, dude!

The tale of the lost wedding dress

2011-08-31T11:32:00.001-04:00

When David Thibault unzipped the unlabelled garment bag and a bit of white lace poked out, he came to the obvious conclusion: "Holy shiznit, it's a wedding dress!"

Sandra & Mike Scharf outside Island Dogs
moments after finding Sandra's dress

Moments before, a couple of tourists came into Island Dogs Tuesday afternoon where Thibault is general manager, lugging the bag. It had fallen off the back of a truck on Front Street just outside the bar and into the street, they said.

"At first I didn't know what to do, but I knew someone had to know who the owners of the dress were," Thibault said.

So he took his hunt to social media.

"Everyone who is following us please retweet. Someone's wedding dress fell off a truck in front of Island Dogs. It's at the bar. Hanging up!" Thibault tweeted.

Then he updated Island Dogs' Facebook status: "Someone's wedding dress just fell off a truck in front of Island Dogs! Not sure if this will work, but if any of you know of a bride looking for her dress, we have it at Island Dogs."

It was an instant sensation among the bar's fans. And work it did.

Just a few hours later, newlyweds Mike and Sandra Scharf walked worriedly into The Rum Barrel across the street, carrying their toddler, with a note offering a $500 reward for the missing dress. (Coincidentally, former Philly 76ers president Pat Croce has interests in both bars.)

"I said, 'I know exactly where your wedding dress is! It's in that bar over there," said Rum Barrel server Julie Lynch, who had seen Island Dogs' Facebook status update that morning.

The Scharfs had been on their way out of the Keys on their return drive from their honeymoon in Key West when they realized the dress was missing, Thibault said. Sandra Scharf cried with happiness and tried to pay out a reward, but he refused.

"Next thing I know, they're snapping pics outside Island Dogs with the dress," Lynch said. "They stopped and kissed and then they were on their way."

"Just because of Facebook, this couple we'd never met was able to find us and find their dress," Thibault said. "That's the power of social media!"

Featured Drink: Bloody, bloody Mary

2011-08-25T13:07:00.000-04:00

Yes, we're featuring an alcoholic beverage two weeks in a row! Any complaints? Didn't think so. :-)

Introducing... *drum roll* the Island Dogs Bloody Mary:

Photo from untapped new york

Absolut Citron
Two Shrimp
Olives
Lemon & Lime
A Celery Stalk.
Add a Little Spice; try it with Absolut Peppar

Featured Drink: Orange Crush

2011-08-18T16:33:00.001-04:00

This week's featured drink is Orange Crush, made with none other than 4 Orange Vodka, the world's first vodka made with Florida orange. (Gotta support good ole Fla., right?)

Here's what you need to try Orange Crush at home:

4 Orange Vodka (doh!)
Muddled Mint
Lime
A splash of soda

How strong it is will all depend on your palate (or tolerance level). Mix and enjoy!

GO NOLES! Island Dogs hosts Somo Seminole Club this season

2011-08-11T13:01:00.000-04:00

This badass photo courtesy
the Somo Seminole Club
Facebook fan page. Go like!

Starting next month, Island Dogs will be the host of the Southernmost (FSU) Seminole Club this season. So start planning your action-packed football weekends now! (Here's the 2011 FSU Football Schedule.)

Catch all the FSU games in HD, full volume every Saturday with our famous Island Dogs munchies and awesome drink specials for all fan club members.

GO NOLES!

Island Dogs Featured Artist: George Victory

2011-08-04T11:35:00.000-04:00

George Victory brings some of the best world beats from Africa and the Caribbean, playing everything from Reggae, Funk, and Soca to Classic Soul.

Victory is an internationally known guitarist and vocalist from Trinidad, who has opened for Paul Simon and The Commodores. He has had two gold albums, played for the King of Morocco, at the Copa Cabana, and more.

George Victory performs at Island Dogs on Saturday night (August 6) at 8 p.m. til midnight, and again on August 13 and 27. Be there or be bitten!

Island Dogs on Single Minded Women (the website, that is)

2011-07-28T12:22:00.000-04:00

A Facebook fan posted an article on our wall recently: the Top 5 Cities for Single Travel on Single Minded Women, "the online destination for single women."

And imagine our surprise to find Island Dogs front and center as the main picture for the article! We're tickled as pink as a Skinny in the City.

The infamous photo from SingleMindedWomen.com

How to keep beer chilled on the beach

2011-07-22T08:53:00.001-04:00

Here in Key West, it's OK to imbibe responsibly on the beach. If it's that way where you are, here's a great guide to keeping those beers cold using just a cooler, seawater, ice and rock salt.

Yeah, the guy's sort of creepy, but it's great chilling advice! (No pun intended.)

<a href='http://www.bing.com/videos/watch/video/how-to-chill-beer-on-the-beach/1iow1x7ay?rel=msn&cpkey=5c1bd319-52ff-44b0-b2d9-cad22cbcd1e8%7Chowcast%20beach%7Cmsn%7C%7C&src=v5:embed::' target='_new' title='How to Chill Beer on the Beach'>Video: How to Chill Beer on the Beach</a>

¡Cuba Libre!

2011-07-14T12:30:00.001-04:00

Cuba Libre

The Rum & Coke is not dead!

If you're in Key West looking for a drink that does the job and goes down smoother than your mom's Rum & Coke, this would be the one.

Or if you're at home dreaming of one, you just need a couple stellar ingredients. Here's our bartenders' special mix:

Cuba Libre

Ron Zacapa 23-year-old rum on the rocks (Side note: The barrels for this rum are supposedly stored 2,300 meters above sea level just below the upper slopes of the mountains and volcanoes of Guatemala, where the temperature averages 62 degrees Fahrenheit.)

A splash of Coke

A squeeze of lime

Island Dogs Featured Artist: Jeff Clark

2011-07-07T15:27:00.000-04:00

Jeff Clark

Jeff Clark has been a musician/entertainer for almost six years. Soul, folk, funk and pop are the backbone of his musical tastes and intentions.

He has toured with Boston-based original world beat ensemble, Entrain, and worked extensively throughout his home state of Pennsylvania, much of the northeast U.S., and across the country. (See below for a video of Jeff performing Michael Jackson's Billie Jean, acoustic.)

These days, you can spot Jeff riding his longboard with amps and guitars, to and from Old Town Key West gigs. Key West offers ample inspiration for creativity and collaboration, Jeff says.

"For the moment, I am happy to not have to drive anywhere and still have a full schedule," Jeff told us at Island Dogs.

Despite a busy gig schedule, Jeff makes sure to play with staple Key West musicians. Together they offer superb talent and a deep repertoire.

As his writing evolves, matures and simplifies, Jeff has received more and more positive feedback and higher demand for his music talent. Jeff says he's becoming more averse to the island grooves, reggae and dancehall, and right now, is working on developing original bands with fewer limits.

Jeff has also been jamming at Pat Croce's Rum Barrel since its inception, on the upstairs open air Quarterdeck, which he says sets a great stage for 4- and 5-piece bands and cool island breeze.

Jeff Clark performs at Island Dogs tonight at 8 p.m. and again on July 16 at 8 p.m. Be there or be bitten.

Visit Jeff on the web at jefff.com. To contact him for booking or to tell him how awesome his music is, shoot him an e-mail at jdcnb2@yahoo.com.

Mojito anyone?

2011-06-23T11:52:00.000-04:00

Gotta love a cold Island Dog mojito!

The Island Dog

2011-06-05T13:46:00.000-04:00

On my lazy Sunday morning reads, I came across this article about hot dogs styles in different cities in the U.S. But, lo and behold, there was no mention of Key West! What a crime.

Everyone who's anyone in Mile Zero knows that we have the best--and weirdest--hot dogs. And for all their off-the-wall ingredients, you'd better believe they taste damned good.

Don't believe me? Just check out the list of our signature hot dogs. Or get a gander of our Island Dogs below. Nommy nom nom.

This yummy Island Dog features a traditional chilli dog topped with fresh
mango salsa. Read it and weep, people. Read it and weep.

Island Dogs Featured Drink: Endless Summer

2011-05-31T15:00:00.000-04:00

In anticipation of the official beginning of summer (not that it isn't always pretty much summer in Key West), here's the tried and tested recipe to Endless Summer, one of our signature Island Dogs drinks.

Feel free to try and test it at home. Of course, if you'd rather have one of our bartenders make it for you, we'd love to liquor you up. That is, if you're not driving or operating machinery or reading the news live at 8...

Endless Summer

Absolut Mango
Lime juice (fresh squeezed optional)
Simply syrup
Mango puree with a float of cranberry (it sets like the sun)

Nommy, right?

Now, here's some music you can sip it to. For them 80s babies...

Things that make us blush

2011-05-26T15:55:00.000-04:00

From hellinahandbasket.net

Spotted on our FB wall...

From Brandi Buzinski:
"We come to Key West 1-2 times a yr & just discovered the joy of Island Dogs (though we're not sure the "joy" is supposed to be for non-locals). Tammy is a large part of what made our experience so good. This is the only bar we re-visited. Kudos!!!"

And Budd Buzinski:
"I will agree with Brandy, wife, this was a very clean and well designed establishment. Our pops, Brandy's, is a VERY picky dude and absolutlely loved it there. We can't wait for our next adventure to K-Dub next year with the Island Dogs in our sites!!!!!! Keep it real and keep it fresh."

Island Dogs Featured Drink: Skinny in the City

2011-05-09T13:07:00.000-04:00

The 'New Cosmo': Skinny in the City

There's no reason, in this day and age (as grandma would say before swigging the whiskey) to not have your cake and eat it to.

Which is to say, one should be able to imbibe and worry a little less about those calories.

And that's where Island Dogs comes in.

We figured we'd share a recipe with you guys of one of our more popular drinks: The Skinny In the City. It's only 64 calories, with no sugar and no carbs.

Do try this at home. And don't say we never gave you anything. Especially on a Monday!

SKINNY IN THE CITY

Absolut Rasberry
Raspberry Pomegranate Skinny Water

Mix as strong as you'd like and serve in a martini glass, chilled.

Check out the rest of our menu HERE

Island Dogs Featured Artist: Dan Adams

2011-04-25T13:17:00.002-04:00

Dan Adams (BMI) is an up and coming songwriter/artist with two cuts on the new solo release from Russell Hitchcock of Air Supply, and has several albums of his own.

Dan Adams

Songwriter/artist Dan Adams established himself as a "road-dog" musician, touring and performing across the Southeast United States in the late 90s and early 2000s.

Dan averaged more than 175 shows annually for more than 5 years. Now that's what we call dedication!

Since then, Dan carved out a niche as one of the most sought after up-and-coming writers in Nashville. In addition to co-writing with many of the most successful veteran writers in town, Adams hosts a regular Nashville songwriter showcase highlighting the talents of many of those writers.

This series has garnered him attention as both a seasoned writer and uniquely talented artist.

Adams has two cuts on the solo release from Russell Hitchcock of Air Supply that was released in March 2011. He's also releasing a new album this spring, a follow-up to his 2008 album The Hard Way and 2010's acoustic album, Straight Up.

Dan Adams performs Thursday, April 28th, at Island Dogs from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. And seriously: Why would you want to be anywhere else?

Check out Dan on ReverbNation. To contact him for booking or to tell him how amazing his music (and beard) are, email him at x1401@hotmail.com.

Creative Hot Dogs Inspired By Us

2011-04-21T14:39:00.004-04:00

We're in the Orlando Examiner this week! Check us out!

The hot dog we inspired food writer Connie Rice to make!

Jägermeister: Ride It

2011-04-14T12:47:00.001-04:00

Last night was our first SIN Wednesday and Heath won the Jägermeister bike! Check it out and weep, compadres.

Heath was one of many bar patrons, who donated to the
raffle to win the Jagermeister Beach Cruiser. Proceeds go to
the Masonic Youth Child ID Program.on Progr

SIN happens at Island Dogs every second Wednesday of the month and all proceeds go to local charities. So will you be there next month to give and imbibe? Hell yeah!

We love us some festie!

2011-04-11T14:58:00.002-04:00

Lee Brice = Total hotty

Just in case you weren't convinced that Island Dogs is rocking even harder since GM Dave Thibault took the helm, take a gander at this:

We're one of those "most popular watering holes and hot spots" hosting artists for Key West's Songwriters' Festival.

*pauses to sip mid-afternoon beer*

(Sorry, we're having a case of the Mondays--easy to remedy when you work at a bar. A blessing, I tell ya.)

On Saturday, April 30, these top-notch artists will take to the IDB stage:

Lee Brice
Jeff Clark
Megan Linville
Morgan Myles
Ruth Collins
Adam Ryan
Laura Washauer
Nick Norman
And the Better Angels Music Songwriters

Yes, yes. Wipe up your country-flavored drool and take a listen to Lee Brice singing "More Than a Memory", the hit song he wrote for Garth Brooks, before you see him live at IDB. Because you're coming, right? :)

Feeling sinful?

2011-04-07T12:32:00.000-04:00

Spring Break is OVER and it's time for Key Westers to get back out and party!

It's the return of SIN Wednesday at Island Dogs.

WHAT: Service Industry Night (S.I.N.)

WHERE: Island Dogs Bar, 505 Front Street

WHEN: Every 2nd Wednesday of the month. Kicking off April 13.

TIME: 9 p.m. til close

SPECIALS: $2 Jager shots

Proceeds from SIN contests and giveaways go to local charities. Raffle tickets go on sale today for the Jagermeister Beach Cruiser; proceeds go to the Masonic Youth Child ID Program. Winner announced at SIN Wednesday next week.

MYCHIP (Masonic Youth Child Identification Program) has identified more than 275,000 children since its inception in 1988, and it continues to assist families today by providing tools to help authorities find and identify a lost or missing child.

Island Dogs Featured Artist: Tony Roberts

2011-04-05T09:09:00.005-04:00

Tony Roberts

Tony Roberts' unique sound is best described as "islandreggaebluesgospel". And he couldn't have found a better home for his music than Mile 0.

A troubadour in the truest sense, Tony has toured the U.S., Canada, and Europe. He's lived and played in Key West, London, Vancouver, and his hometown of Boston, Massachusetts, where he started out at Berklee College of Music as a songwriting major.

Tony's lyrics are confessional, visual and inspirational, from the intensely emotional, to rhythms that you just can't help but move to. He has written, recorded and released 10 albums on his own record label, Broken River Records.

In 2009, Tony's song, Rise, was used by the New York Yankees as a theme for their Hope Week campaign. In 2010, his song, Love Songs and Melodies, was used on the Current TV Network and various television networks in Korea and South America.

His latest album, The Long Lost Ocean Blues, produced and recorded by Tony and released in December 2009, features musicians from Key West, Nashville, and Boston.

Right now, Tony is working on the soundtrack and production for Welcome to Today, a Barbados-based surf video due to be released in 2011. Check out the trailer.

Tony lives and performs regularly in Key West, Fla.

Tony Roberts performs tonight at Island Dogs at 7 p.m. Catch him again in April on-stage at The Dog on April 12, 19, and 26. All performances at 7 p.m.

To contact Roberts for booking or to give him a pat on the musical back, shoot him an e-mail at tmindflow@aim.com. He'd love to hear from you!

It seemed like a good idea at the time

2011-03-28T10:58:00.002-04:00

Just chillin' at The Dog

Island Dogs Featured Artist: Tim Charron

2011-03-23T15:38:00.002-04:00

Tim Charron's entry into the entertainment field started as a teen in Warwick, R.I., singing, writing and performing in rock bands. His career continued as a pop rock artist in Miami and then to Nashville, Tenn., where he’s now based.

Tim spends his time touring the country, hence the moniker: Rock & Roll Gypsy. He has opened for country music's 10-time platinum selling artist Clint Black; Shooter Jennings, country music and Southern Rock singer/songwriter; performed with members of Brooks & Dunn, and on many a stage and at festivals from California to Tennessee.

“When I tour, I stay with local friends, fans or I camp and get immersed in the local culture: food, art, sports, people,” Charron told us.

Tim recently stayed at a hippie commune in Venice Beach, Calif., and on a houseboat in Key West, Fla. He’s an avid volleyball player and plays at beaches all over the country on his tours. He also recently began surfing in California.

“Many times, I’ll write songs that reflect those places,” Charron said.

Like a lustful ballad inspired by a stormy day on Miami Beach ("Desire"), meeting a girl at the ocean's edge in Costa Rica ("Tequila Talk") and “Roadside Road”, an ode to life on the road, touring, and taking the road less traveled. His music reflects his working-class upbringing and his nomadic, jet set lifestyle, he said.

Tim's music and shows are heavily influenced by the likes of Kenny Chesney, Keith Urban, John Mellencamp, Sheryl Crow, and Jack Johnson.

Tim Charron's last performance for March at Island Dogs is tomorrow night, March 24, at 6 p.m. Be there or be bitten.

To contact Charron for booking or to tell him how awesome his music is, shoot him an e-mail at nashevillehits@yahoo.com or give him a call at 305-772-7870.

This post also appeared on The Rum Barrel Bar blog.

Free shots of Jameson?

2011-03-17T11:58:00.000-04:00

No, really. Free shots of Jameson today at 3:17 p.m. After all, it's 3/17. Stop by!

Feeling irie lately?

2011-03-16T16:54:00.000-04:00

So have we!

This week's featured phood is our one and one signature hot dog spiced to perfection with jerk seasoning and topped with delightfully sweet plantains.

Hey, we never said we were ordinary! Stop by when you're ready to step outside the Key West culinary box... ;)

What's goin' on at the RB in March?

2011-03-13T17:06:00.002-04:00

Harley and Roberts rockin' the dawg

2011-03-09T12:20:00.000-05:00

Top U.K. slider guitarist Martin Harley (left) accompanies
well-known Key West singer and songwriter Tony Roberts
on the Island Dogs stage March 9.

Last night, Martin Harley took to the Island Dogs stage to accompany Key West's own Tony Roberts. And tonight, Harley will make his U.S. debut with a solo performance at The Dog.

The story of how the two musicians met is actually pretty cool. Harley ran into Roberts in Barbados while surfing; the two were actually both on the island to perform their own gigs at the Virgin Holiday's Music Festival. They hit it off and ended up doing an impromptu "show" then and there for surfers and islanders alike. Then they did a set at the music festival together.

We're stoked to have Harley at Island Dogs tonight! See you there?

The Perfect Storm

2011-03-07T15:41:00.002-05:00

Though it may seem we're obsessed with Malibu,
it's really just good times in general. Really.

Ask Island Dogs' David Thibault (the coolest managing partner there ever was) what's his favorite drink served up at Island Dogs and he'll tell you it's The Perfect Storm.

Want to make one at home? Here are the 'ingredients'. Mix and match to your tastebud's and tolerance's desire!

The Perfect Storm
Served in a 32-oz. bucket and no bib

Coconut Malibu
Passion Fruit Malibu
Banana Malibu
Pineapple Malibu
Melon Malibu
Fresh OJ
Pineapple
Lime Juice
Topped off with 151

Top UK performer Martin Harley makes U.S. debut at Key West's Island Dogs

2011-02-28T11:51:00.000-05:00

The Martin Harley Band

KEY WEST, Fla. – The Martin Harley Band has been rocking the UK charts with its signature mix of hot-blooded blues, jazz and rock rhythms. Now its leader Harley, one of UK’s top slider guitarists, brings his ballads to Island Dogs in Key West.

“These guys are huge on the British acoustic scene and we’re just so excited that Martin has chosen us to perform in the U.S. for the first time ever,” said Island Dogs managing partner David Thibault.

Martin Harley will take to the Island Dogs stage March 8 with well-known Key West singer and songwriter, Tony Roberts. In an interesting twist of fate, Roberts met Harley—also one of UK’s top blues songwriters—while surfing in Barbados, before memorable performances at the island’s Virgin Holidays Music Festival. Roberts later joined Harley for the popular guitarist’s solo festival set.

Roberts and Harley will perform as a duo and with special guest musicians at Island Dogs Bar and the Rum Barrel Bar March 8 through 12.

Located just off the beaten Canal Street path and under new ownership since July 2010, Island Dogs at 505 Front Street offers a risqué menu and cool island vibes with a breezy outdoor porch, and a cozy indoor bar and entertainment area. It’s a popular hang-out spot as one of the last kitchens on the island to close at 4 a.m.

For more information, call Island Dogs at 305-509-7136. If you're a member of the media, contact Kari Cobham at 386-405-1196.

Zac Seemiller and friends rockin the Dog

2011-02-18T17:42:00.002-05:00

Aooooooo!