Food & Drink - LKLD Best Of 2025

Best Pizza

PALACE PIZZA DOWNTOWN

114 S Kentucky Ave, Lakeland

Every bite is a slice above the rest, with Neapolitan, Sicilian, or gluten-free crusts that rise to the occasion, sauce that’s pure amore, and ooey-gooey cheese, they’ve truly kneaded their way into our hearts. Palace is serving up supreme flavor that wins year after year. Whether you’re in for a quick slice or a full pie with friends, Palace Pizza is the big cheese, no contest!

2nd: J. Burns’ Pizza Shop

3rd: By The Chef Pizza

Best Burgers

GLORY DAYS GRILL

3790 Lakeside Village Ct, Lakeland

Each burger is grilled to perfection with juicy patties, fresh toppings, and freshly baked buns. Whether you like the classic All-American Cheeseburger, the Sliders, or the Glory Burger with Glory Sauce, bacon, pepper jack cheese, frizzled onion straws, and a soft fried egg, every bite is a win. They truly meat and exceed expectations by delivering a grill-iant burger that locals can’t get enough of.

2nd: Burger 21

3rd: Food+Beer

Best Tacos

TAPATIO’S RESTAURANTE

MEXICANO 734 E Memorial Blvd, Lakeland

In queso you didn’t know, Lakelanders love Tapatio’s. Their tacos, from hearty Tacos de Birria, overflowing with melty cheese, tender meat, and served with a rich cup of broth, to traditional tacos customized the way you like it, are nothing short of sensational. Combine that with friendly service that makes everyone feel like family, and Tapatio’s has really guac-ed their way to the top.

2nd: Mega Mercado Restaurant

3rd: El Gallo Tejano

Best Wings

CHAMPS SPORTS BAR & GRILL

6645 Florida Ave S, Lakeland

Champs has soared to the top. Their wings are cooked to perfection with sauces that range from your classic favorites to inventive & unique flavors like Lava or Golden Dragon! These wings are flying high with flavor. Pro-tip: this family-owned and operated sports bar posts specials on its Facebook page, check it out before you go.

2nd: Winners Circle Sportsbar & Grill

3rd: Beef ‘O’Brady’s

Best Sub Sandwich

PUBLIX

Floridians take their love for Pub Subs seriously, and it’s no surprise why. Crafted freshto-order on a soft, fresh-baked roll, each bite is pure satisfaction. The iconic Chicken Tender sub has its own devoted following, but even the classic options are irresistibly tasty. Ready in a flash, fully customizable, and ideal for lunch breaks, beach outings, or a Disney day, a Pub Sub isn’t just a sandwich, it’s a Florida tradition.

2nd: Subs ‘N Such

3rd: Uncle Nick’s Italian Deli & Bagel

Best Oysters

FISH CITY GRILL

1485 Town Center Dr, Lakeland

They are the pearl of Lakeland. The oysters on the half shell feature a selection of fresh Gulf and East Coast oysters, each a briny delight. The Mystic Mermaid Oysters are a proprietary oyster delivering a sweet finish served with a cucumber-lime mignonette. For a totally unique choice, the Oyster Nachos are served with fried oysters, chipotle tartar sauce & pico de gallo. Yum!

2nd: The Peach House

3rd: Gary’s Oyster Bar & Seafood House

Best Cuban Sandwich

DIVICIOUS DELI & COFFEE SHOP

128 E Main St, Lakeland

Divicious Deli has truly pressed its way to the top with its award-winning Cuban sandwich. This “Cubano” is a ham-dle of perfection, layering savory roasted pork, Swiss cheese, and tangy pickles between soft Cuban bread. Each bite is a delight, bringing together the best of Cuban-American flavors. Whether you’re a local or just passing through, this sandwich is a must-try for any foodie.

2nd: Ole’ Tampa Cubans

3rd: Sandwich Factory

Best Italian Restaurant

SCARPA’S ITALIAN

1833 E Edgewood Dr, Lakeland

Scarpa’s has pasta-tively earned its title as Best Italian Restaurant year after year. Since opening in 2013, this family-owned gem, led by Glenn and Ashley Scarpa, has been serving up amore on a plate with housemade pastas and fresh Florida seafood. Their Penne Bolognese and Veal Cannelloni are fan favorites. With a 4.6-star rating on TripAdvisor and a visit from Emeril Lagasse himself, Scarpa’s proves that in Lakeland, they’re the best.

2nd: Il Forno Italian Restaurant

3rd: Palace Pizza Downtown

Best Sushi Restaurant

SUSHI MASA

5700 Florida Ave S, Lakeland

Sushi Masa has rolled its way to the top, earning accolades for Best Sushi Restaurant for the second year. Their menu offers a sea of options, including raw or cooked rolls. With a 4.7-star rating and rave reviews highlighting the freshness and variety of offerings, it’s clear that they are the catch of the day. Whether you’re a sushi aficionado or a newcomer, Sushi Masa promises an un-roe-gettable dining experience.

2nd: New Moon Sushi

3rd: Tsunami Sushi & Hibachi

Best BBQ Restaurant

BLUE DOG CRAFT BARBECUE

640 E Main St, Lakeland (The Joinery)

Blue Dog has officially smoked the competition, earning its first-ever title as LKLD’s Best Barbecue! Pitmaster Max Miller has been perfecting Texas-style barbecue with a focus on quality meats like brisket, pulled pork, and ribs, all complemented by housemade sides like collard greens and mac & cheese. Voters say he has the best brisket in Polk County & the sides are just as good as the entrees. Congratulations!

2nd: Jimbo’s Pit Bar B-Q

3rd: Mission BBQ

Best Mexican Restaurant

MEGA MERCADO RESTAURANT & TIENDA

2009 George Jenkins Blvd, Lakeland 6645 Florida Ave S, Lakeland

Mega Mercado has wrapped up the title for Best Mexican Restaurant, and it’s no small fiesta! With traditional flavors, authentic dishes like tortas, tacos, and tamales keep locals coming back for more. The friendly service adds the perfect spice to every visit. Whether you’re craving a Super Burrito or fresh guacamole, Mega Mercado is the chip off the old block when it comes to Mexican eats. Congratulations on your win!

2nd: Azteca D’oro Mexican Restaurant

3rd: Sweet Cup Cafe

Best Thai Restaurant

SPICE THAI & SUSHI

3895 Florida Ave S, Lakeland

From their incredible Pad Thai, stir-fries, and curry, every dish at Spice Thai is a tasty love letter to traditional Thai cuisine using the freshest ingredients. Whether you’re craving a little or a lot of heat, they know how to rice to the occasion. You won’t wok away hungry, as one voter commented that it’s the best Thai food in Polk County! Congratulations on winning again this year.

2nd: Thai Oishi

3rd: Savory Thai

Best Greek/Mediterranean Restaurant

LOUIS PAPPAS FRESH GREEK

1318 Town Center Dr E, Lakeland

This family-owned gem has been serving authentic Greek cuisine since 1925 around South Florida. Diners rave about the classic gyros, crisp Greek salads, and the famous Pappas dressing. Whether you’re craving a hearty moussaka or a fresh spanakopita, Louis Pappas offers a tzatziki-filled experience that keeps locals coming back for more. It’s no wonder they’ve souvlaki-ed the competition! Congratulations on your first win!

2nd: Athenian Restaurant

Best Chinese Restaurant

PEKING HOUSE

2411 Florida Ave S, Lakeland

Peking House has once again wok-ed its way to winning Best Chinese Restaurant! This local favorite keeps customers coming back for more. From their crispy spring rolls to the egg-cellent General Tso’s chicken, every bite is a wok of art. Peking House truly knows how to stir-fry up the competition and keep you craving more! With their friendly service, it’s no surprise they’re the soy-perstar in Lakeland once again!

2nd: China 1

3rd: May Flower

Best Asian Restaurant

LING’S BUFFET

4320 Florida Ave S

This all-you-can-eat restaurant offers soy much variety, from sushi rolls that roll right into your heart to sizzling stir-fries that wok up your taste buds. Whether you’re craving Chinese classics or Japanese delights, the wide variety of choices at Ling’s Buffet deliver an egg-ceptional dining experience that keeps locals coming back for more. There is something for everyone!

2nd: Hakucho

3rd: Tilaw Asian Fusion

Best Seafood Restaurant

HARRY’S SEAFOOD BAR & GRILLE

101 N Kentucky Ave, Lakeland

Harry’s has reeled in the win again as the Best Seafood Restaurant! This New Orleansstyle restaurant has dishes that shell out big flavor. From Shrimp & Grits to the Crab Crusted Redfish Royale, Harry’s menu is a true sea-lection of delights. The friendly staff makes you feel like family, and they firmly believe “Laissez Les Bon Temps Rouler” which means “Let the Good Times Roll.”

2nd: Mister Fish

3rd: Fish City Grill

Best Vegan Menu

VEGETATION

1439 E Gary Rd, Lakeland

Vegetation has leafed the competition behind! This all-vegan café serves up fresh, minimally processed meals that are as nourishing as they are delicious. From their rotating weekly menu featuring dishes like the Teriyaki Bowl and Korean Tacos, to grab-and-go options like the Lentil Coconut Curry, every bite is a plant-based delight. With a 4.9-star rating across platforms, Vegetation proves that eating green is always in season. Congratulations on your continued success!

2nd: Bandidas Bake Shop

3rd: The Juice Box

Best Donut Shop

HOLE IN ONE DONUTS

2076 E Edgewood Dr, Lakeland

They have glazed their way to the top year after year! Hole In One Donuts is a great way to start any day, with flavors like classic glazed to crullers and filled donuts, every bite is pure delight. Whether you’re grabbing a quick morning pick-me-up or a special treat, they continue to be the top spot for donut lovers. Their donuts are holeheartedly delicious, and I’ve heard that a few sprinkles a day keeps the doctor away! Or something like that.

2nd: Parlor Doughnuts

3rd: Charlie’s Mini Donuts & Coffee

Best Ice Cream Shop

BRIGHT ICE SCOOP SHOP

1200 Florida Ave S, Lakeland

Bright Ice has scooped up the title of Best Ice Cream Shop for the first time! This super cute shop has been delighting locals with its small-batch, handcrafted flavors made fresh weekly in Pinellas Park. With 19 signature flavors, including vegan options and unique flavors like Oat of This World with oatmeal cream pies, Bright Ice offers that sweet escape we all need. Whether enjoyed in a waffle cone or a cup, every treat is a chill celebration of flavor.

2nd: Mayday Handcrafted Ice Creams

3rd: Mootown Scoops

Best Bakery

BANDIDAS BAKE SHOP

1755 E Edgewood Dr, Lakeland

Bandidas Bake Shop has whisked its way to the top, winning Best Bakery for the first time! This Latin-inspired gem began as a pop-up and blossomed into a beloved brick-and-mortar spot. Their menu is a sweet and savory symphony of treats like the Coconut Carrot Layer Cake or the irresistible Hippie Scones. With a cozy atmosphere and a menu that’s baked in love, it’s no wonder they’re the crème de la crème of bakeries!

2nd: Born & Bread Bakehouse

3rd: Meraki Bakehouse

Best Coffee Shop

ROGUE COFFEE

307 W Main St, Lakeland

Rogue Coffee has brewed up a win! This sweet spot is the grounds for all your caffeine cravings, serving up delicious drinks that perk up Lakelanders. From silky lattes and matcha to bold cold brews, every cup is bean-tastic and made with love. The friendly baristas stir up smiles along with every pour, so it’s no wonder they’re the new favorite for local coffee lovers.

2nd: Black & Brew

3rd: Concord Coffee

Best Breakfast

FAT JACK’S DELI & PUB

2940 Florida Ave S, Lakeland

From fluffy Western omelets to golden pancakes stacked high, their menu is a real treat. Crispy home fries, sizzling bacon, and their famous corned beef hash will have you bacon for more. The warm, nostalgic diner vibes make every visit feel sunny-side up, and the friendly staff always greets you with a smile. Congratulations to Fat Jack’s for winning year after year!

2nd: Bandidas Bake Shop

3rd: Sweet Cup Cafe

Best Brunch

THE TERRACE GRILLE

329 E Main St, Lakeland

With dishes that are truly egg-stra special like the Lake Mirror Benny or the Toast Francaise made with thick brioche soaked in a sweet custard of green cardamom and served with whipped mascarpone, every bite is a celebration. Their bottomless mimosas and Bloody Marys make it easy to sip into the weekend in style. Whether you’re there for a leisurely morning with friends or celebrating something special, Terrace Grille is the jam to your toast. Congratulations on their first win!

2nd: Frescos Southern Kitchen & Bar

3rd: Nineteen61

Best Fine Dining

NINETEEN61

215 E Main St, Lakeland

Nineteen61 has polished the silverware and claimed Best Fine Dining yet again! This Latin culinary gem serves up classics like Arroz con Mariscos, Ropa Vieja, Picanha, and empanadas, and each bite feels like a five-star affair. The elegant atmosphere and impeccable service make every guest feel like royalty. With flavors that dance and a presentation fit for a gala, Nineteen61 is fine dining at its best.

2nd: The Terrace Grille

3rd: Hakucho

Best Casual Dining

VEGETATION

1439 E Gary Rd, Lakeland

Vegetation has bean crowned Best Casual Dining, truly sprouting ahead of the competition! From the ever-changing weekly menu, to the grab-and-go favorites, every bite is a peas of plant-based perfection. The owner’s journey into whole-food, plant-based living inspired Vegetation: a 100% vegan café dedicated to nourishing, minimally processed meals crafted with love, for healthy food that tastes as good as it looks.

2nd: Frescos Southern Kitchen & Bar

3rd: Cob & Pen

Best Diner

FAT JACK’S DELI & PUB

2940 Florida Ave S, Lakeland

With warm, nostalgic vibes that keep things sunny-side up and a staff that’s always buttering you up with smiles, it’s no yolk, this diner truly takes the (pan)cake. Congratulations to Fat Jack’s for cooking up another well-deserved win! Whether you’re in for the Original Sloppy Jack made with lean roast beef and brown gravy or an “Over Stuffed” pastrami sandwich, you’ll leave a happy person.

2nd: Metro Diner

3rd: Reececliff Family Diner

Best Outdoor Dining

COB & PEN

1221 Florida Ave S, Lakeland

Cob & Pen has raised the bar (and the patio umbrellas), winning Best Outdoor Dining! This charming Tudor-style spot is where good food meets fresh air and even fresher conversation. Share food, pop a bottle of wine, or sip a cocktail while soaking in the lively lawn vibes. From cornhole tosses to belly laughs, it’s the al fresco experience Lakelanders love. With a friendly team, tasty twists on classics, and a welcoming atmosphere, Cob & Pen is proof that the grass is greener where the drinks are colder.

2nd: The Peach House

3rd: Palace Pizza Downtown

Best Restaurant with a View

SORA EATERY

3900 Don Emerson Dr, Lakeland (Second floor at Lakeland Linder Int’l Airport)

This elevated eatery offers unobstructed views of planes taking off and landing, perfect for aviation enthusiasts. Whether you’re savoring a Tokyo Drift smash burger or the Japanese-style egg sandwich, the ambiance is as sky-high as the flavors. The menu blends Asian fusion and American classics. No boarding pass required!

2nd: Vasco Sixty-One

3rd: The Joinery

Best New Restaurant

HAKUCHO

207 E Main St, Lakeland

This modern Japanese izakaya serves up skewer-tastic dishes like the Tsukune Skewer made with ground chicken, dumplings, udon, Korean fried chicken, ramen, and more. From shareable plates to craft cocktails that mix things up, every bite is a delicious adventure. The menu blends tradition with creativity and brings new flavors to Lakeland. Hakucho is the new kid on the block who’s already stealing the spotlight. Congratulations on your win!

2nd: By The Chef Pizza

3rd: Sora Eatery

Best Food Truck

BURGER 21

burger21.com

Burger 21 has rolled into Lakeland’s hearts, winning Best Food Truck! Whether you’re craving gourmet burgers at office lunches, apartment events, or big community fundraisers, Burger 21 brings the flavor on wheels. Perfect for birthdays, weddings, retirements, or any celebration, their food truck makes your event grill-iant and hasslefree. Make every event a burger bash to remember!

2nd: Our Noire Kitchen

3rd: Gin Khao Food Truck

Best Brewery

SWAN BREWING

115 W Pine St, Lakeland

Swan Brewing has hopped to the top once again, winning Best Brewery! With 30 taps featuring locally-made craft beer. Swan hosts weekly live music, food trucks, trivia, a run club, and events throughout the year. Whether you’re a fan of crisp pilsners or bold IPAs, Swan Brewing continues to pour passion into every pint, proving they’re always a winner in Lakeland’s craft beer scene.

2nd: Grove Roots Brewing Co.

Best Bar

REVIVAL

119 S Kentucky Ave, Lakeland

This one’s for you, Jeannie! Jeannie Weaver Lopez, the visionary behind Revival, passed away in November 2024. Jeannie was a friend of the magazine, and we saw firsthand her dedication to the craft and how it transformed Revival into a downtown staple, earning it the title of Best Bar year after year. In addition to Revival, Jeannie co-founded The Peach House, a restaurant near Lake Morton, showcasing her entrepreneurial spirit. Her legacy continues through “The Pepper Project,” a GoFundMe campaign supporting her young daughter, Pepper. Jeannie’s impact on Lakeland’s hospitality scene remains profound, and she is deeply missed. Cheers to the staff at Revival for the continued excellence.

2nd: Champs Sports Bar & Grill

3rd: Rec Room

Best New Bar

VASCO SIXTY-ONE

215 E Main St, Lakeland

Vasco Sixty-One has quickly become Lakeland’s go-to. Located above Nineteen61, this stylish rooftop spot offers a curated menu of Latin-inspired tapas and handcrafted cocktails in a chic, tropical setting. Guests can enjoy the vibrant atmosphere featuring stunning views of Downtown Lakeland. Whether you’re unwinding after work or celebrating a special occasion, this is the place to be.

2nd: The Bar at Depot 303

3rd: The Dram House

Best Cocktails

REVIVAL

119 S Kentucky Ave, Lakeland

The winner of the Best Bar has to have the Best Cocktails, right? Revival has truly shaken, not stirred the competition, winning Best Cocktails yet again! The menu is a top-shelf blend of creativity and craft. From the first pour to the final garnish, each drink is mixed with precision and a splash of love. Whether you’re feeling like an Old Fashioned or want to try something new, Revival knows how to keep the good times on the rocks. Here’s to another round of perfection!

2nd: Vasco Sixty-One

3rd: The Peach House

Best Beer List

SWAN BREWING

115 W Pine St, Lakeland

Swan Brewing is truly pour-fection in Lakeland, they’re brew-yond compare! With 30 taps pouring everything from the hoppy Straight Outta Lakeland IPA to the nutty Downtown (Hazelnut) Brown, their menu has something for every beer lover. Nestled downtown by Lake Wire, they’ve mastered the art of craft-ing a vibe with live music, food trucks, and a friendly staff. Let’s raise a glass, because Swan Brewing has tapped into greatness, year after year.

2nd: Food + Beer

3rd: Cob & Pen

Best Wine List

THE WINE GARDEN

1204 Florida Ave S, Lakeland

The Wine Garden has truly uncorked excellence! From bold red lovers to crisp white enthusiasts, The Wine Garden pairs ambiance with exceptional flavor, creating a sip-back-and-relax kind of magic. Whether you’re sharing a bottle with friends or discovering a new favorite, their wine list is a toast to taste and sophistication. Join the monthly Wine Club and receive bottles from small, quality-driven producers. If you’re a wine novice, let them help you find your next favorite bottle of wine. Congratulations on your first win!

2nd: The Terrace Grille

3rd: Scarpa’s Italian

Best Happy Hour

REVIVAL

119 S Kentucky Ave, Lakeland

Revival is proving once again that happiness is best served in a glass. From expertly crafted cocktails to irresistible drink specials, they’ve turned afternoons into the highlight of the day. It’s the perfect spot to unwind, mingle, and sip something extraordinary without breaking the bank. Whether you’re chasing a great cocktail, wine, or just good company, Revival’s happy hour is always a toast-worthy time. Here’s to more golden hours filled with great pours, good vibes, and plenty of cheers!

2nd: The Terrace Grille

3rd: The Peach House

Best Mocktails

REVIVAL

119 S Kentucky Ave, Lakeland

Revival is raising the bar, again, but without the booze! Their zero-proof creations are every bit as flavorful and artfully crafted as their spirited counterparts, proving you don’t need alcohol to have a good time. From fresh, vibrant flavors to gorgeous garnishes, each sip is a celebration in a glass. Perfect for mindful drinkers, designated drivers, or anyone craving something delicious.

2nd: The Peach House

3rd: Hakucho

Best Catering

BURGER 21

1601 Town Center Dr, Lakeland

Burger 21 has truly grilled its way to the top. Their slider-packed boxed lunches are a box of joy. Add in satisfying tenders for a group, big juicy burgers, vegetarian burgers, salads, sides, and sweet treats, and you’ve got catering that’s perfect for any size gathering. Whether for office lunches or parties, your guests will love that you brought in Burger 21. There’s something for everyone, making this an easy choice.

2nd: TLC Catering

3rd: Cob & Pen

Best Service

VEGETATION

1439 E Gary Rd, Lakeland

This cute café and kitchen is known not just for its fresh, plant-based fare, but for a team that’s always kind and always ready with a welcoming smile. Customers consistently rave about the excellent service that makes going in for their “graband-go” items or café-sit-downs feel cozy and cared for. With warmth that grows on you, Vegetation truly raises the stakes and the service standards in every visit! Congratulations!

2nd: Hakucho

3rd: J. Burns’ Pizza Shop

Best U-Pick

FANCY FARMS MARKET

5204 Drane Field Rd, Lakeland

Fancy Farms is berry unbeatable, winning Best U-Pick! Guests can wander through rows of sweet strawberries, handpick bright sunflowers, and gather colorful zinnias, all fresh and farm-grown just for you. After filling your basket, treat yourself to their famous strawberry shortcake or a refreshing lemonade. With friendly staff and a charming country vibe, Fancy Farms makes every visit a pick-me-up full of smiles and sunshine. Check their socials for the seasonal schedule.

2nd: Keel Farms

3rd: Whitehead’s Blueberry Farm

Best Hidden Gem

VEGETATION

1437 E Gary Rd, Lakeland

Literally behind train tracks and close to a transmission repair shop, a paint store, and a plumber, you’ll find our readers’ choice for Best Hidden Gem. This year, they’ve won Best Casual Dining, Best Vegan Menu, and Best Service. I’m not sure how much of a “hidden gem” they are after this, but congratulations to them on their success! You can find the best vegan food here, along with vegan baked goods. If you haven’t been yet, this is the time to go.

2nd: Bandidas Bake Shop

3rd: Andrew Logans Artisan Chocolates & Confections

Best Guilty Pleasure

ANDREW LOGANS ARTISAN CHOCOLATES & CONFECTIONS

andrewlogans.com

Mark Sutton is the Founder and Head Chocolatier, and from the velvety dark chocolate with salted caramel to the nostalgic PB&J bonbon, his handcrafted treats are a sweet escape from the everyday. Each piece is a work of art, hand-painted and made with premium ingredients. Find these little pieces of chocolate heaven at the Market on Kentucky at 126 S Kentucky Ave in Lakeland. Check Andew Logans’ socials for seasonal flavors. Congratulations on your first win!

2nd: Parlor Doughnuts

3rd: Bright Ice Scoop Shop