It's Key Lime Time

As we say down here in the subtropics, "The lime doesn't fall far from the tree." At least, it doesn't if we're talking about Key limes and the Key Lime Tree (95231 Overseas Hwy., Key Largo, 305-853-0378, and 105690 Overseas Hwy., Key Largo, 305-453-1717). These kitschy little shops down in...

By Jen Karetnick

April 18, 2002

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As we say down here in the subtropics, "The lime doesn't fall far from the tree." At least, it doesn't if we're talking about Key limes and the Key Lime Tree (95231 Overseas Hwy., Key Largo, 305-853-0378, and 105690 Overseas Hwy., Key Largo, 305-453-1717). These kitschy little shops down in Key Largo stock a ton of only-in-the-Keys items, including alligator-shaped pasta and concoctions known as "swamp mustard." But for the most part, the shelves are dedicated to products flavored with this coveted citrus fruit: key lime-covered pecans; key lime-frosted graham crackers; key lime marmalade; key lime jellybeans. Diehards can even wash their hair with key lime shampoo and bubble up their baths with key lime soap. But the most obsessed among us probably won't even make it into the shop, given that the patio area contains dozens of potted key lime trees. The three-gallon containers go for ten bucks, and while you might not see limes on the limbs for a few years, it's a good investment nonetheless. Just keep it to yourself -- we wouldn't want the canker crowd to get fragrant wind of it.

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Jen Karetnick is an award-winning dining critic, food-travel writer, and author of the books Ice Cube Tray Recipes, Mango, and The 500 Hidden Secrets of Miami.

Contact: Jen Karetnick