In the furious world of Key West watersports, it’s better to be mellow.
Mellow Ventures, located on the edge of Old Town at 1605 North Roosevelt, is an oasis of a charter service in a desert of corporate competitors.
Specializing in custom backcountry 6-pack charters, paddleboard rentals and sales with brands like Pau Hana, Guide and Bote, and the Mellow Ventures Café featuring Death by Tako, Mellow is downstream from the mainstream.
And owner Rob Oliviero wouldn’t have it any other way.
“This is a tight-knit community and our mainstay are our locals,” Oliviero describes. “And we don’t believe in cookie cutter trips.”
There are numerous qualities that set Mellow apart from the rest of the charter and rental field, but perhaps the most unique is the aforementioned Mellow Ventures café which features their culinary counterpart, Death by Tako.
When you walk into the café, the paddleboard and charter rental aspect of the business almost becomes secondary to the presence of choice craft beer on tap, exquisite local art, a groovy bar and the good-humored staff.
Their patio area, dubbed the Beer Garden, overlooks Garrison Bight and has outdoor seating and grills.
And then come the tacos.
From carnivores to vegetarians, there is a salivating option for everyone.
“It’s healthy, easy, and simplistic,” Oliviero says.
For example, savory honey roasted golden beets are paired with tart and creamy goat cheese to form a divine partnership between a tortilla. Toss in some candied walnuts and the texture is truly heavenly.
Furthermore, the café offers up an extensive list of freshly made juices, salads and wraps.
So whether you’re returning from a backcountry paddle yoga trip or just happen to be passing by, the Mellow Ventures café should become a destination for all occasions, not just for when you want the best guided tours Key West offers.
Mellow Ventures is open seven days per week from 9am to 9pm and it’s exactly what you’re looking for.