FOOD: Celebrating Conch Cuisine Exhibit Opening

Key West Museum of Art & History to Debut Smithsonian-Affiliated Exhibition on Conch Cuisine

Opening Reception: 5:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.

The Key West Museum of Art & History is proud to announce the opening of a landmark exhibition, FOOD: Celebrating Conch Cuisine, on Friday, February 27, 2026, with a free public reception from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.  This major cultural event marks a significant moment for the institution, as the exhibition is partially funded and inspired by the Smithsonian Institution, highlighting the national importance of Florida Keys food heritage.

Building on the foundation of the Smithsonian’s acclaimed Food History exhibitions—which explore the deep connections between food, culture, and identity—this localized version brings the rich culinary legacy of the Florida Keys to the forefront. “FOOD: Celebrating Conch Cuisine” explores the history, innovation, and resilience of island foodways, from Indigenous harvesting traditions and Afro-Caribbean influences to Cuban and Bahamian migrations that shaped what we now call Conch cuisine.

The exhibit offers an immersive experience through interactive displays, original artifacts, oral histories, and multimedia storytelling, all revealing how the Keys’ geography, climate, and cultural diversity gave rise to unique culinary practices. Visitors will discover how ingredients were sourced and preserved in an isolated environment, how recipes evolved across generations, and how food became central to both survival and celebration in island life.

More than just a regional food exhibit, FOOD: Celebrating Conch Cuisine reflects the Smithsonian’s broader mission to connect food with identity, memory, and meaning.  Developed in collaboration with local historians, chefs, and cultural experts, the exhibit tells a powerful story of migration, adaptation, and community resilience, making it not only a milestone for the museum but also a deeply rooted tribute to the people and traditions of the Florida Keys.

Don’t miss this opportunity to explore how what we eat reveals who we are—and to celebrate the enduring spirit of Conch culture through the lens of its bold, flavorful cuisine.