Key Lime Pie at Hurricane Hanks: A Slice of Florida’s Favorite Dessert

If you’re on Anna Maria Island and craving a true taste of Florida, there’s only one way to end your meal: Key Lime Pie at Hurricane Hanks Restaurant in Holmes Beach. This iconic dessert is more than just a sweet treat—it’s a culinary symbol of Florida culture. Known for its creamy texture, tart zing, and perfect graham cracker crust, the Key Lime Pie at Hurricane Hanks is the perfect finale to any island meal.

The History of Key Lime Pie: Florida’s Signature Dessert

Key Lime Pie traces its origins back to the late 1800s in the Florida Keys. Before modern refrigeration, condensed milk was often used in recipes, and it combined beautifully with the tart juice from Key limes—a variety smaller and more aromatic than the Persian limes found in most grocery stores today. Early versions of Key Lime Pie didn’t require baking. The acid from the lime juice would “cook” the eggs, thickening the pie. Eventually, a baked version became the standard.

In 2006, the Florida State Legislature officially designated Key Lime Pie as the state pie of Florida, sealing its status as a beloved Sunshine State tradition. Since then, its popularity has grown nationwide, appearing on menus across the country and inspiring everything from martinis to ice creams.

Why the Key Lime Pie at Hurricane Hanks Stands Out

What makes the Key Lime Pie at Hurricane Hanks truly special? It starts with authenticity. Hurricane Hanks uses genuine Key lime juice for that unmistakable tart flavor. The filling is perfectly balanced—not too sweet, not too sour—with a silky, rich consistency. It’s nestled in a crisp graham cracker crust that offers just the right amount of crunch. Finished with a dollop of whipped cream and a lime twist, it’s an island experience in every bite.

Whether you’re wrapping up a seafood dinner or dropping in just for dessert, the Key Lime Pie at Hurricane Hanks is a fan favorite for locals and visitors alike. It’s the dessert that says, “You’re in Florida now.”

Drink Pairings: What to Sip with Your Slice

The perfect dessert deserves the perfect drink. Fortunately, Hurricane Hanks offers a stellar selection of beverages to complement the tangy sweetness of their Key Lime Pie. Here are a few must-try pairings from their craft cocktails and drink menu:

Key Lime Martini

Why not double down on the flavor? The Key Lime Martini from Hurricane Hanks combines vanilla vodka, lime juice, and a splash of cream to echo the flavors of the pie itself. It’s creamy, zesty, and incredibly smooth—like dessert in a glass.

Hank’s Hurricane

This signature cocktail is a tropical powerhouse made with rum, fruit juices, and a hint of grenadine. The sweet and fruity notes contrast beautifully with the tartness of the Key Lime Pie, creating a playful balance that keeps your taste buds dancing.

Fresh Margarita

Lime on lime? Absolutely. A classic margarita with fresh lime juice and tequila brings out the citrusy essence of the pie. It’s a zesty combo perfect for Florida weather and seaside dining.

Late Harvest Riesling

If you prefer wine, this slightly sweet Riesling pairs beautifully with citrus-based desserts. It enhances the pie’s creaminess while mellowing the tart notes with floral undertones.

Espresso Martini

For a more decadent pairing, try an Espresso Martini. The rich coffee flavors provide a bold contrast to the pie’s citrus profile. This is an ideal choice if you’re going for dessert and a post-dinner pick-me-up.

The Growing Popularity of Key Lime Pie Nationwide

While Key Lime Pie has always been a staple in Florida, its popularity has soared across the United States. Thanks to food shows, travel blogs, and social media, the pie has found a national audience. Restaurants from New York to Los Angeles now feature Key Lime Pie on their dessert menus, but many purists argue there’s nothing like enjoying it right where it began—along Florida’s Gulf Coast.

Foodies praise Key Lime Pie for its balance of flavors and nostalgic charm. It’s become a go-to option not only in diners and beach cafes but also in upscale restaurants and culinary festivals. In fact, entire events like the Key Lime Festival in Key West celebrate this classic dessert with pie-eating contests, cooking demonstrations, and even Key lime cocktails.

More Than Just Dessert: A Florida Tradition

Ordering a slice of Key Lime Pie at Hurricane Hanks is about more than just satisfying a sweet tooth. It’s about tapping into the cultural essence of Florida living. Every bite carries the flavor of island breezes, turquoise waters, and the easygoing vibe that makes Anna Maria Island such a special place to visit.

That’s what makes this dessert so enduring: it’s a piece of Florida you can taste. For locals, it’s a beloved comfort food. For visitors, it’s a must-try experience. And for Hurricane Hanks, it’s an opportunity to serve something that brings people together, one slice at a time.

Perfect Endings: What to Order Before the Pie

While the Key Lime Pie steals the show, don’t sleep on the dishes that come before it. Some of the most popular dinner entrees that set the stage for dessert include:

• Grouper Sandwich – A Florida favorite, perfectly grilled or fried.
• Fish Tacos – Light and flavorful, they leave just enough room for dessert.
• Hurricane Burger – Big flavor and the perfect balance of savory before something sweet.
• Crab Cakes – Rich and meaty, offering a beautiful transition to a citrusy pie.

Explore the full menu on the Hurricane Hanks website.

Come for the Food, Stay for the Pie

If you’re visiting Anna Maria Island—or lucky enough to call it home—Hurricane Hanks is the kind of place where locals and travelers gather for good food, refreshing drinks, and great company. And the Key Lime Pie is a standout star that never disappoints. Whether you’re enjoying it after a sunset dinner, grabbing a slice with coffee in the afternoon, or making it your go-to birthday treat, it’s a dessert you’ll come back for again and again.

And don’t forget, the rotating Whiskey Reserve Pour List and full craft cocktail menu mean you can always find a perfect pairing to elevate your Key Lime Pie experience.

Plan Your Visit to Hurricane Hanks

Located in the heart of Holmes Beach, Hurricane Hanks has been a staple of Anna Maria Island dining for years. With an inviting atmosphere, attentive staff, and a menu that blends casual comfort with coastal creativity, it’s the perfect spot for lunch, dinner, or just dessert and drinks.

To learn more, explore their full list of craft cocktails, wines, and mouth-watering dishes on their official website.

Final Thoughts: It’s Always Key Lime Time

There’s something magical about Key Lime Pie when you’re on island time. It’s sunshine on a fork, and no one does it quite like Hurricane Hanks. Whether you’re a seasoned local or a first-time visitor, make sure your meal ends with this Florida classic. And don’t be surprised if you come back for another slice tomorrow.

So go ahead—treat yourself to a sweet tradition. Order the Key Lime Pie at Hurricane Hanks, and taste the tropics in every bite.