Living in Key West: Island Stories Podcast. Michelle's Foundation Southernmost Mansion, Seaside Cafe

Donate to Michelle's Foundation

Stay at the Southernmost House

Eat at Seaside Cafe

The island of Key West is one of incredible stories and incredible humans. This interview with Michael Halpern is one that exhibits the beautiful spirit of the island with history, joy, and a helping heart for the people of Key West.

Michael is an attorney, business man, and philanthropist. We first met Michael while eating at his restaurant, The Seaside Cafe. Michael was a gracious and kind host, visiting our table. We were so impressed by his kindness and warmth during our brief interaction that we knew we wanted a chance to chat with him more. After our quick chat we learned that Michael is not only the owner of the Southernmost House (aka The Mansion here locally) and the Seaside Cafe but he is also the founder of Michelle's Foundation. Named for his late wife, Michelle's Foundation contributes to the education of the children and young adults here in Key West. Between their scholarship fund, their alternative high school (Somerset Island Prep), tutoring and contribution of food to help kids keep their bellies full even after school, Michelle's Foundation is giving academic opportunities that otherwise would be out of reach. In addition, the foundation contributes to supports local foster and adoption organizations and animal welfare and rescue organizations as well. 

Michael's passion for philanthropy and this island is palpable. His extreme care for the mansion, the pride in the restoration and preservation, his love of sharing the history and artifacts of the building, and his joy in welcoming guests in are inspiring. He glows when he speaks of his son and chef, Rafe's, ideation and creation of the Seaside Cafe and the delicious, high quality food they serve. To hear Michael speak of his wife's legacy, his love of this island, his "secret" passion for animals, the fun of taking time off to spend time with his children and grandchildren, the pride he has for the work of the foundation, and to be in the presence of someone who is constantly looking for opportunities to make the world around him a better place can't help but inspire you to go out and do the same.

We feel lucky that we had the opportunity to spend time with Michael and hear about his time on this beautiful island we call home. We also finally got a chance to enjoy the Seaside Cafe's world famous lobster pizza immediately after we wrapped. All we can say is: Run, don't walk, and get yourself this pizza. It's truly incredible.