Backyards of Key West Podcast with Mark Baratto

In this episode, Mark Baratto sits down with Analise Andrews, the owner of Key West Food Tours. We talk about how she was raised in her Cuban grandmother’s Key West kitchen and how Analise Smith pursued a career in the food industry by starting Key West Food Tours in 2014. Combining a love for food with her hometown of Key West, Analise created a 3-hour, highly entertaining narrative weaving the island’s history on a tasting walking tour, visiting five local mom-and-pop restaurants. Today, Key West Food Tours offers its signature Southernmost Food Tasting & Cultural Walking Tour, Seafood Lover’s Walking Tour, and the Key West Craft Cocktail Crawl, consistently receiving #1 in TripAdvisor’s Food and Drink category for Key West, as well as TripAdvisor’s Certificate of Excellence. More on Key West Food Tours Key West Food Tours was founded in 2014 to offer visitors of Key West a taste of authentic local culinary experiences while providing historical anecdotes, because, let’s face it, food tastes better whe

In this episode Mark Baratto sits down with Ben Teague of Ben Teague Design. We talk about how Ben took a leap of faith and went from working in a bank to doing what he loves. This episode has a ton of gems for those of you out there looking to escape the corporate world to work in a business you love to do. More on Ben Teague Design Calling Key West home for 15 years. Creating custom interiors for over 20 years. As a teenager, Ben’s mother foresaw his career path when he found a passion for home design and aesthetic while constantly rearranging his room. Today, only a couple of years later ;-) Ben is still following his passion while helping clients express theirs. Website: https://benteague.design Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/benteaguedesign/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/benteaguedesign/

In this episode, Mark Baratto sits down with Jess Forsythe and Mike Kenna of Kenna Construction. We talk about how Mike got into the business, how he went from a classically trained chef to an expert contractor. We also learn how Jess acts as the glue to keep everything together and is the businesswoman that keeps the ship moving in the right direction. More on Kenna Construction Residential Renovation From Key West to Cudjoe Key. Interior, Exterior, Excavating!! Kitchens, Bathrooms, Flooring, Fences, Driveways, Home Additions, Decks, Siding, and more. Call or message for free project walk-through and estimate. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kennaconstruction Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KENNACONSTRUCTION/

In this episode, Mark Baratto sits down with Grant Portier, the owner and chef of Poké In the Rear, an Asian-themed restaurant in its open-air backside bar in the famed Aquaplex. We talk about where he came up with the idea for the restaurant, and how he is taking a grassroots word of mouth approach to marketing. More on Poké In The Rear Some like it a little, others like it a lot! Poké, Naan Bread Pizza, Wings, and things... Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pokeintherear/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pokeintherear Website (coming soon): http://www.pokeintherear.com/ 504 Angela St, Key West, FL 33040 tel: +1-561-254-6798 Hours: 11:30 AM - 12:00 AM

In this episode, Mark Baratto sits down with Johnna, one of the owners of Cruisin' Tikis, and Captain Ryan. Johnna tells her story of going from the retired life to the Tiki life while actually on one of their famed Tikis. More on Cruisin' Tikis Key West ENJOY A TIKI CRUISE IN BEAUTIFUL KEY WEST, FLORIDACruisin' Tikis Key West offers a variety of cruises from 1 - 3 hours with THREE locations to choose from. We  also offer private parties and special events including but not limited to: Birthday Parties Bachelor / Bachelorette Parties Engagements Retirement Parties Sunset Cruises Sandbar Cruises  Corporate retreats and events Let your imagination design your TIKI CRUISE today! Want to get married on a Tiki Boat? Two of our captains are officiates... so if you are looking for a laid back tiki wedding let us know. Or contact Ana at Key West Wedding Day to help design your perfect wedding package.   www.keywestweddingday.com/ We provide bottled water, sodas, cups, a cooler with ice, blender, Bluetooth Radio, and

In this episode, Mark Baratto sits down with artists Marianne van den Broek to talk about her amazing sand sculptures found around town in Key West. We talk about how Marianne began her journey as a sand sculptor, and how she turned a "summer job" into a passion project with a full-time residence at Casa Marina, A Waldorf Astoria Resort. More on Just Sand and Water Marianne van den Broek has been a sand sculptor since 1999. She has participated in many events around the world, working with different sculptors, learning from the best and continues to work with awesome people. She moved from the Netherlands to Key West in 2005 and now runs her own sand sculpting business out of Key West Florida. In addition to being the artist in residence for the Casa Marina Resort in Key West, she is a part-time educator and serves as the vice-chair on the City of Key West's Art in Public Places Board. She loves being on the water and is a charter boat captain on the side. Website: https://www.justsandandwater.com Instagram:

In this episode, Mark Baratto sits down with Nance Frank, the director of the Gallery on Greene. This is perfect for all you Key West history buffs out there.  We dive deep into the history of Key West homes, the people and the art. We recorded this episode in the fall, before COVID-19 lockdown happened.  I am pleased to say that The Gallery on Green is fully operational and taking visitors on a daily basis. More on The Gallery on Greene The Gallery on Greene has consistently fomented curatorial and artistic practice through ambitious exhibitions programs, created in close collaboration with its artists with museums from New York, MCNY, AFAM, SSSM to Havana's National Museum of Fine Art. Our philosophy: The style pendulum swung away from overly furnished and cluttered interiors some time ago. The immediate reaction was one of clinical simplicity. We are now experiencing a hugely exciting period where key pieces of fine art or antiques are used to a stunning effect within contemporary interiors. This juxta

In this episode, Mark Baratto sits down with the owner of Salt Island Provisions, Laura Richardson. We talk about the origin story or Salt Island Provisions, how this island favorite is a hub for everything local; from salt to wine to honey to art. This spot is a MUST for every tourist and local alike! **Note that his episode was recorded before the COVID-19 lockdown, but I am pleased to say that Salt is still running at full steam! More on Salt Island Provisions SALT Island Provisions is a purveyor of fine goods handcrafted in and sourced from the Florida Keys. We offer the indigenous essences of sweet and savory: wild honey and sea salt, harvested in small batches from the sun-kissed islands. We believe in goods that are simple by nature and speak to the ‘spirit of place.’ It is our business to celebrate our island home by featuring local artists and artisans.  Website: http://www.saltislandprovisions.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/saltkeywest/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SALTKeyWest/ Yelp

In this episode, Mark Baratto sits down with Chief TuTu wearer, Jenn Stefanacci. We talk about how this Jersey girl made her way down to the Conch Republic and how she created her cult-classic bar, 22&Co. This was one of my favorite episodes I did, not only because of how cool 22&Co is but how cool Jenn is... bringing that NJ flavor all the way south. **NOTE** This episode was recorded before the pandemic, so hours are changed. As of September 10th, 2020 - their hours are: Monday - Thursday = 4pm - 12ish Friday & Saturday = 2pm - LATE Sunday = 12pm - LATE Light snacks served at the bar. More on 22&Co Fresh cocktails. Fun bartenders. Tutus. Flamingos. Unicorns. ...Need we say more? 22&Co Key West 504 Angela Street Key West, FL 33040 (305) 394-7244 Website: https://22andco.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/we_love_tutus/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/22tutuandCo/

In this episode, Mark Baratto sits down with Scott, the owner of Bluesail Vacation Yachts & Sailing Academy. We talk about how he made the shift from working in Chicago to running a full-time business in Key West and what happened to his business when the Corona Virus struck. More on Bluesail Vacation Yachts Website: https://www.bluesailcharter.com YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCkNQnB6TW6aq3F8tKEs-PVA Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bluesailcharters/ More information: https://linktr.ee/bluesailcharters 7005 Shrimp Road Key West, FL  33040 (813) 601-5243

In this episode, Mark Baratto sings down with musician Joal Rush to talk about his musical origin story (more than 20 years ago), the time he puts into his music, and where he is headed. We recorded this podcast for the Songwriters Podcast many months before the COVID-19 lockdown. More on Joal Rush Born & raised in Camden, South Carolina, Joal Rush began his musical quest at an early age(singing, drumming, playing guitar & bass, as well as dabbling on piano), and has been performing live for the past two decades, sharing the stage with nationally renowned artists Zac Brown Band, Jason Isbell, Darius Rucker, Lee Brice, Shovels & Rope, Sister Hazel, Drivin' n Cryin', Edwin McCain, Jay Clifford(Jump, Little Children), Jakob Dylan, Big Head Todd & the Monsters, Styx, and Foreigner, while releasing a handful of albums along the way(Delightful Things, Imagination, Wares). Rush relocated to Nashville, TN in the summer of 2014, to focus on writing/recording the songs for his upcoming album, Kaleidosco

In this episode, Mark Baratto sits down with the co-owner of The Green Pineapple at the Perry Hotel, Rebecca Schwab-Talpas. We talk about her career start in retail, why she decided to open up the shop at the Perry, her yoga teachings, and her cookbook club :). This episode was recorded months before COVID lockdown and since then, Rebecca has taken most of her yoga classes online, so make sure to check out her schedule https://mindbody.io/locations/salute-to-the-sol The Green Pineapple at the Perry Hotel The Green Pineapple offers a lovely blend of goods and services to help you feel happy and healthier. Our lifestyle boutiques feature men’s and women’s apparel, handmade jewelry, accessories and much more. Address The Perry Hotel 7001 Shrimp Rd, Key West, FL 33040 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/greenpineappleperry/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/greenpineapple_perry/ More on Rebecca Schwab-Talpas Rebecca is the owner of Salute to the Sol and has been teaching and practicing yoga in the Florida K

In this episode, Mark Baratto sits down with local artist Jasmine Jones. We talk about how she got started and how she is making a life for herself as an extremely talented artist. This interview was recorded before the March 2020 shutdown, so Jasmine's classes are on hold for right now, but all her amazing art is for sale! Shop: https://www.oceanbluesstudio.com/shop More on Jasmin Jones Hi there! My name is Jasmine Jones, I’m an abstract painter based out of Key West, Florida. I was born and raised here in Key West, growing up immersed in color. From the vibrant flora and fauna that thrive on the island, to the picturesque sunsets and ocean seascapes, there was always plenty for me to draw as a kid. The colors that occur naturally in the Florida Keys have been my main inspiration for painting. Whether it’s in the ocean or in the sky, the way the colors seamlessly blend and combine to create infinite and unique combinations is my favorite part of living in paradise. I create my artwork using a combination of

In this part 2 episode, Mark Baratto sits down with Jenny Lorenz, the Director of Marketing at The Perry Hotel Key West. We go behind the curtain in this interview, to get a first-hand experience of what all hotels had to go through during the pandemic, all the steps The Perry is taking to put their customers first, and how they continue to make changes for future growth. More on The Perry Hotel Key West Inspired by Commodore Perry, the father of the United States Navy, The Perry Hotel's easy, laid-back atmosphere has been thoughtfully cultivated to stay true to the seafaring roots of Old Key West. Discover a place transformed and a history reclaimed at the award-winning Perry Hotel, breathing new life into our beloved Stock Island. Some Hotel Amenities 100 guest rooms Water views all around Two restaurants, including pool/dockside bar Indoor/outdoor dining Waterfront swimming pool Outdoor fire pits Direct access to marina and ocean Water activities available onsite Dog-friendly hotel &am

In this episode of the podcast, Mark Baratto sits down with the Kiteboarder, Chef, and owner/creator of the Key West First Legal Rum Distillery, Paul Menta. We talk about how Paul took a number of chances when creating his rum distillery and how his "failures" help him find success. In a post-COVID-19 world, Paul saw how hand sanitizer was hard to come by, so made his own product mixing 140 proof alcohol with aloe and transmission gel, used in ultrasounds. Menta gave away the 3-oz bottles around town to service workers, retailers, mail carriers, and anyone else hard at work in Key West during high season for tourists. Key West First Legal Rum Distillery WHAT IS CHEF DISTILLED? For centuries, Distillers have been making the sweet libation...Rum.  Some legal, some not so legal. One common task shared by rum Distillers and Chefs alike is cooking sugar cane in big kettles or "stills." We are Chefs first and Distillers second, so our process is called Chef Distilled! This combination of skill brings out the best f

In this episode, Mark Baratto sits down with Square Grouper creator and owner Lynn Bell. We talk about how they got started, their expanding location plan, and how they are navigating the restaurant business in a new COVID-19 environment. More on The Square Grouper Bar & Grill The Square Grouper Bar and Grill is located at MM 22.5 Oceanside on Cudjoe Key, Florida. One of the Florida Keys most popular destinations for unforgettable fresh & local seafood, with an emphasis on consistency and quality. Lynn and her staff have a dedication to excellence paired with a focus on detail which has defined the Square Grouper Bar and Grill as a must-visit restaurant.  Come visit for a large selection of innovative small plates, ever-changing specials, homemade desserts, a boutique wine list, and a rotating selection of microbrews. The restaurant emphasizes being environmentally friendly and “green”, and all paper products and straws are made from corn products. Website: https://squaregrouperbarandgrill.com Instagr

This episode is brought to you by The Marquesa Hotel. The Key West Hotel Marquesa and Café Marquesa are the finest small Key West hotel and restaurant on our island. Set in the center of the historic district of Old Town Key West, the Marquesa compound is set around a lush interior garden and sparkling swimming pools. Time slows down at the Marquesa where a quiet retreat awaits those looking for luxury, privacy, excellent food and service. This episode is also brought to you by ME

In this episode, Mark Baratto sits down with owners and mother-daughter powerhouse, Jasmine and Morgan. We talk about how they got into the business, how they work together in a family business, and how their passion for the environment, spills into everything magical they do! *A little note that this episode was recorded before COVID hit, but they are still open and living the dream! More on AMRI We are an ethical and sustainable day spa, salon, and boutique located in the heart of Key West, FL.  We aim to always put people and the planet above all else. We accomplish this by thinking of the people involved in every area of our supply chain. From the people who make the products we sell, to our team members at our storefront in Key West, to you,  our guest! Our main priority is making sure Amri is impacting all of these people's lives and the planet in a  positive way. From making sure the factories our products are made in are up to code and the workers are getting a fair wage- to making sure the materials

In this episode, Mark Baratto sits down with owners Matt & Katie Wills of The Spice & Tea Exchange of Key West. This episode was recorded in December of 2019 and I wanted to wait for them to be back open after the COVID shut down. We talk about how they took a leap of faith to start a brand new business in Key West, how they work their family dynamic, and how a "little rub goes a long way

In this episode, Mark Baratto sits down with Steven, the food and beverage director for Matt's Stock Island Kitchen & Bar and the Salty Oyster Dockside Bar & Grill at The Perry Hotel. We discuss how these two restaurants get all their amazing food, the incredible brunch deal, and what the heck a fishmonger is ;). This episode was recorded many months ago and I'm happy to say that the brunch deal is still going on! More on Matt's Stock Island Kitchen & Bar At Matt’s Stock Island Kitchen & Bar, the ingredients speak for themselves. It’s American Coastal Comfort Food—simple, comforting, and delicious in a way you’d never expect. Whether you bring in your own fresh catch for us to prepare or come in to order just a few dishes, you’ll want to try everything on the menu. Plus, our gift cards make the perfect present for your favorite foodie Website: https://www.perrykeywest.com/eat-and-drink/matts-stock-island Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mattsstockisland Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/m