BEST PIZZA
J. BURNS’ PIZZA SHOP
5535 Cypress Gardens Blvd Suite 160, Winter Haven
(863) 256-0200
FB @jburnspizza
IG @jburnspizzashop
They’ve stolen a pizza my heart. J Burns’ Pizza Shop has been a staple in the community for over 50 years. Their pizza has been the same since day one: thin, crispy, and cut into squares. J. Burns’ prides themselves on quality ingredients, great service, and a family-friendly atmosphere. They serve Boars’ Head meat, local produce, and a dough made especially for them. J. Burns’ offers a variety of pizzas, salads, subs, and sides, as well as delicious gluten-free options. Even their salads can be served gluten-free (just ask about the dressings)!
2nd: Bistro Pizza
3rd: Floridino’s Italian Kitchen
BEST BURGERS
ADLER’S
543 Ave B SW, Winter Haven
(863) 875-6615
113 Ambersweet Way, Davenport
(863) 438-4324
FB @Adlers.TCB
IG @adlerstcb
These burger bandits are on a roll and can’t be stopped! For three years, they’ve been smashing it out of the park at their Avenue B, Winter Haven spot, serving up patties that are the toast of the town. Fans are flipping for their droolworthy menu, especially the Classic with LTOP, American cheese, mayo, ketchup, and mustard on an artisan bun. But the sizzle doesn’t stop there—Adler’s roster of badass burgers includes heavy hitters like the Italian, Bad Hombre, Twitty, Bourbon BBQ, and specials that’ll make you do a double take (if you follow their socials). Sink your teeth into one with hand-cut fries or jalapeño firecrackers, and quench your thirst with a craft soda or beer on tap.
2nd: Andy’s Igloo
3rd: (Tie) The Apple Lounge & Grill Lucille’s American Cafe
BEST TACOS
TACOS MY FRIEND
3899 Recker Hwy, Winter Haven
(863) 837-7416
FB @tacosmyfriend
IG @tacos_my_friend
This top taco titan takes the crown year after year, crushing the competition with their authentic, flavor-packed tacos. Their succulent carne asada, nestled in warm tortillas, topped with onion, cilantro, a squeeze of lime, and a drizzle of salsa verde, is a real knockout. Not a steak fan? No problemo! They’ve got a meat lineup that’ll make your mouth water, including pollo, pastor, chorizo, lengua, tripas, and cabeza. And that’s not all— their full menu is loaded with burritos, tamales, nachos, fajitas, and more. Taco-bout time you tried this fantastic fare!
2nd: The Lake House Kitchen
3rd: Angel’s Kitchen
BEST WINGS
THE APPLE LOUNGE & GRILL
2803 Recker Hwy, Winter Haven
(863) 291-0340
FB @appleloungewinterhaven
Apple Lounge has been called the “Cheers” of Winter Haven, where everybody knows everybody. It’s a good-time, classic bar off Recker Highway with neon beer signage, pool tables, darts, and some damn good pub food. They aren’t just wingin’ it either! Their awardwinning wings come bone-in or boneless in flavors including mild, medium, hot, RF hot, garlic parmesan, honey BBQ, lemon pepper, teriyaki, blackened, Carolina gold, and sweet chili. “When people ask where the best place for wings is, I always say the Apple. I don’t care if you’re 20 miles away... the Apple. Lol. Amazing blue cheese, ranch, carrots, celery... and the best wings BY FAR. Everything there is perfect,” writes one Apple devotee.
2nd: Beef ‘O’ Brady’s
3rd: Blackburn’s BBQ
BEST CUBAN SANDWICH
SOUP’R CUBANS SANDWICH SHOP
1502 42nd St NW, Winter Haven
(863) 967-6277
FB: Soup’R Cubans
Word on the street is this Cuban sandwich is Soup’R delicious! So much so that they keep bringing home the gold! “Over 20 years and still pressin’ on!” Since 2000, Soup’R Cubans Sandwich Shop has been crafting the perfect pressed Cuban, loaded with ham, pork, Genoa salami, Swiss cheese, pickles, and a zesty mustard and mayo mix, all on fresh Cuban bread. Choose your hot-pressed sammie as a 7-inch Regular or a 10-inch Super, and pair it with a sub, salad, or one of their six daily soups. It’s a press-tastic experience you won’t want to miss!
2nd: Richard’s Fine Coffees
3rd: SoCe Market
BEST ITALIAN RESTAURANT
ARABELLAS RISTORANTE
346 W Central Ave, Winter Haven
(863) 293-1797
FB @ArabellasRistorante
Arabellas Ristorante is pasta-tively amazing when it comes to delivering exceptional Italian fare! This Times Square hotspot has been serving up a pasta-bilities of top-notch food, service, and ambiance since 2004. Whether you’re planning a romantic dinner for two or an upscale lunch with friends, Arabellas is the ravionly place to be. Enjoy their Trancio di Salmone Arrosto con Carciofi or Fettuccine Alfredo, paired to perfection with a glass or bottle from their extensive wine list—or perhaps a cocktail from Ave Bar next door.
2nd: Carrabba’s Italian Grill
3rd: Floridino’s Italian Kitchen
BEST SUSHI RESTAURANT
TSUNAMI SUSHI
5937 Cypress Gardens Blvd #300, Winter Haven
(863) 324-6777
FB @TsunamiSushi2013
IG @tsunamisushiwh
If you haven’t tried it yet, you’re in for a ‘reel’ catch at Tsunami Sushi! This Cypress Gardens gem is truly on a roll, winning accolades year after year. Their menu is packed with options that will make your taste buds go wasabi-crazy, including sushi rolls, sashimi, makimono, tempura, miso, and more. Dive into their fresh flavors with creations like the Red Dragon Roll, featuring sweet shrimp, cream cheese, and scallions, topped with spicy tuna, tobiko, eel sauce, and asparagus. Or savor the Tigers Eye Roll, with salmon, tuna, krab, cream cheese, and avocado, wrapped in cucumber and drizzled with ginger tataki sauce. Let’s maki tonight a sushi night!
2nd: Tsukiyomi Sushi Bar & Grill
3rd: Sakura Japanese Steakhouse & Sushi Bar
BEST BBQ RESTAURANT
BLACKBURN’S BBQ
169 5th St, Eagle Lake
(863) 287-9975
FB @BlackburnsBBQ
IG @blackburnsbbq
Blackburn’s is smokin’ hot when it comes to their oak-smoked, fall-off-the-bone BBQ. They’re truly grilling up a storm and smoking the competition! This Eagle Lake gem offers mouthwatering favorites like pulled pork and rib bone-in sandwiches, along with dinner plates featuring brisket, turkey, smoked sausage, meat by the pound, and family meal deals. Their made-from-scratch Southern sides are the perfect complement, including sweet coleslaw, Southern potato salad, fresh collard greens, and Mimi’s corn casserole. Wrap up your feast with homemade banana pudding or a slice of fresh apple or pecan pie. Blackburn’s BBQ is truly a grill-icious experience!
2nd: The Smokin’ OX Premium BBQ
3rd: Smokin’ Jim’s House of Bar-B-Q
BEST DONUTS
THE DONUT MAN
1290 6th St NW, Winter Haven
(863) 293-4031
FB @thedonutmanWH
Looking to add some sweetness to your day? The Donut Man is definitely worth a visit! Their Amazing Apple Fritters are a real showstopper, attracting fans from all around. But let’s not glaze over their other treats—assorted cake donuts, filled donuts, raised donuts, plus sandwiches, bagels, muffins, croissants, coffee, and more. One customer raved, “BEST donuts I’ve ever had! Their staff always treats customers right—so friendly and accommodating! My favorite donut is the Vanilla Cream!” Donut Man, You’ve got a ‘hole’ lot of charm!
2nd: Baking Donuts Plus
3rd: Dunkin’
BEST SUBMARINE SANDWICH
FIREHOUSE SUBS
1107 3rd St SW Ste 6, Winter Haven
(863) 293-8200
FB @firehousesubs
IG @firehousesubs
Chris and Robin Sorensen grew up in an entrepreneurial family built on decades of fire and police service. They started this hot franchise over 29 years ago and now boast over 1,250 Firehouse Subs Restaurants. It’s all about the best meats, cheese, and toppings to make the perfect sandwich. Not only can you build your own sub, Firehouse has a menu chock-full of delicious sammies like the Hook & Ladder made with smoked turkey breast, honey ham, and melted Monterey Jack, served with lettuce, tomato, onion, mayo, and deli mustard or the Smokehouse Beef & Cheddar with smoked beef brisket, melted cheddar, BBQ sauce, and mayo.
2nd: Mama Dilo’s Deli
3rd: Publix
BEST MEXICAN RESTAURANT
AZTECA D’ORO
5860 Cypress Gardens Blvd, Winter Haven
(Multiple locations)
(863) 295-9080
FB @Aztecawinterhaven
IG @aztecadorowh
Azteca D’Oro has clinched the title of Best Mexican Restaurant an encha-lot-of times! This Winter Haven favorite is the go-to spot for delicious margaritas and mouthwatering Mexican cuisine. Their lunch and dinner menus are packed with tasty options like ceviche, nachos, elotes Mexicanos, fajitas, burritos, enchiladas, tortas, tacos, signature dishes, desserts, and more. This is ‘nacho’ average food! Their winning dishes are the ‘taco’ about town and have truly ‘salsa’d’ to the occasion!
2nd: El Olivo Mexican Restaurant
3rd: San Diego’s Mexican Grill
BEST LATIN RESTAURANT
MORENA’S RESTAURANT-CAFE DOMINICAN & CUBAN CUISINE
586 Avenue C SE, Winter Haven
(561) 729-1764
FB @MorenasCakesAndMore
IG @morenascakesandmore
Congratulations on this well-deserved title, Morena’s! Walking into her space, one is greeted with the savory aroma of freshly baked and fried goods and a comfortable feeling. At Morena’s, they make everything fresh, and just like her grandmother, the owner serves generous portions. You haven’t lived until you’ve tried her empanadas, potato balls, ham croquetas, and yuca fries with the house-made cilantro garlic sauce and mayo ketchup. One happy customer wrote in part, “Delicious homemade food! Had chicken breast stew with white rice and beans plus sweet plantains! Amazing!! Ask for the daily specials, and don’t forget to leave room for dessert! Such a friendly and welcoming spot! So glad to have yummy Latin food in Winter Haven!”
2nd: Zarza Latin Food & Grill
3rd: Santiago’s Market
BEST BREAKFAST RESTAURANT
EGG HAVEN
301 3rd St SW, Winter Haven
(863) 268-8269
FB: Egg Haven
Egg Haven, you’re bacon me crazy! This 3rd Street diner, which opened in 2013, serves an egg-stensive breakfast menu all day long. Swing by (or drive-thru) any morning, and you’ll find patrons savoring their Egg Haven Benedict, chocolate chip pancakes, and blueberry French toast on the sunny patio. Often described as a hidden gem in Winter Haven, they’re praised for their fast, friendly service, delicious food, and fair prices. You make our mornings egg-stra special!
2nd: First Watch
3rd: Andy’s Igloo
BEST BRUNCH
LUCILLE’S AMERICAN CAFE
205 3rd St SW, Winter Haven
(863) 875-5005
FB @lucilleswh
IG @lucillescafewh
You’re toast-ally going to love Lucille’s brunch menu! Lucille’s American Cafe, crowned ‘Best New Restaurant’ in 2022 and reigning champ of brunch for two years running, is the place to be. Their weekend brunch is a local favorite, and it’s easy to see why. This retro Winter Haven café serves up homemade meals from scratch with a variety of delicious options. Relax on the sunny patio and indulge in Bananas Foster French Toast paired with a sparkling bellini mimosa. Join Lucille’s for brunch and get ready for a waffle lot of fun!
2nd: The Fire Restaurant
3rd: First Watch
BEST SEAFOOD RESTAURANT
HARRY’S OLD PLACE
3751 Cypress Gardens Rd, Winter Haven
(863) 324-0301
FB: Harry’s Old Place
IG @harrysoldplacewh
Harry’s Old Place has us by the gills: Hook, line, and sinker. Their food is just that darn good! Harry’s Old Place has been known as the go-to place for seafood for over 30 years. Guests come to this charming Winter Haven spot overlooking Lake Ned, craving their seafood chowder, grouper, scallops, fish and chips, and more. Harry’s Old Place is temporarily closed. We wish them luck with their renovations.
2nd: Harborside
3rd: Arabellas Ristorante
BEST THAI RESTAURANT
THAI HAVEN
309 W Central Ave, Winter Haven
(863) 291-8085
FB @ThaiHaven
IG @thaihaven_fl
Thai Haven is stir-fry-ing to be the best! Visit this spot on Central Avenue for a truly memorable meal. Family-owned and operated, Thai Haven serves authentic, made-to-order dishes in a charming setting with views of Downtown Winter Haven. Their extensive menu features appetizers, soups, salads, curries, specials, noodle dishes, fried rice, and more, with spice levels to match any preference. Thai Haven, let’s make it a Thai-riffic day!
2nd: Kualao Lao Thai Cuisine
3rd: Saigon Garden
BEST MEDITERRANEAN RESTAURANT
MEDITERRANEAN FRESH GRILL
6035 Cypress Gardens Blvd, Winter Haven
(833) 633-4745
FB @MediterraneanFreshGrillWinterHaven
IG @mediterraneanfresh
Mediterranean Fresh Grill’s Chef Chadi Mokbel crafts stunning Lebanese dishes that taste even better than they look. “Our menu is inspired by the bold, fresh flavors of Eastern Mediterranean street foods. We use only topnotch, wholesome ingredients like organic fruits and vegetables from local and regional farmers, as well as antibiotic-free chicken, lamb, and beef,” says Med Fresh Grill. The menu features food prepared fresh daily and cooked to order, with options for various dietary needs including vegetarian, vegan, low-carb, Keto, and glutenfree. Mediterranean Fresh, you make our heart go hummus!
2nd: The Krazy Greek
3rd: Andrea’s Family Restaurant
BEST CHINESE RESTAURANT
BEIJING RESTAURANT
3005 Cypress Gardens Rd SE, Winter Haven
(863) 318-0226
Beijing Restaurant serves up a generous menu and warm, friendly service. Enjoy a wide range of Chinese favorites, from sweet and sour chicken to beef chop suey, either by dining in, taking out, or having it delivered! As Beijing puts it, “We carefully select our ingredients, using only the freshest and most natural ones to prepare each dish, with a focus on cooking them in a healthier way to offer the most nutritious food.” This is the top choice for Chinese carryout. Beijing Restaurant, you’re soy awesome!
2nd: Eddie’s Chinese Take Out
3rd: China Garden
BEST RESTAURANT FOR OYSTERS
GARY’S OYSTER BAR & SEAFOOD HOUSE
660 E Alfred St, Lake Alfred
(863) 956-5055
FB: Garys Oyster Bar
Shell yeah! Gary’s has been serving up oysters in their cozy, casual dining space for over 43 years. Their Char-Grilled Parmesan and Jalapeño Bacon Oysters are top contenders for guest favorites. Whether you prefer fresh oysters steamed or raw, you’ll find yourself in half-shell heaven. Pair your oysters with a cocktail from their full-service bar! Gary’s Oyster Bar says, “We take pride in offering a genuine Florida seafood experience that the whole family will enjoy.”
2nd: Harborside
3rd: Old Man Frank’s
BEST ICE CREAM
ANDY’S IGLOO
703 3rd St SW, Winter Haven
(863) 293-0019
FB: ANDY’S IGLOO
Ice cream fans ‘scoop’ up the fun at Andy’s with their Americana charm, but the real treat is their ice cream—it’s the cherry on top! Their neon sign is a beacon for ice cream enthusiasts and those with a sundae sweet tooth. Andy’s serves up homemade sherberts, milkshakes, freezes, floats, and hand-dipped ice cream. I’m totally cone-fident that this is the best ice cream!
2nd: Delectable Delights
3rd: Dairy Queen
BEST FOOD TRUCK
OUR NOIRE KITCHEN
(863) 225-8055
FB @ournoirekitchen
IG @ournoirekitchen
Offering savory soul food on the go, Our Noire Kitchen is a personal chef and catering service. They pop up all over the county, from the Winter Haven Farmers Market to Grove Roots and Catapult. According to Our Noire Kitchen, “This black-owned catering and photography business is passionate about making—and photographing—delicious homemade meals to make your lunch or dinner celebration an event to remember.” One customer wrote, “Some of the best food I’ve ever had. The classic jerk chicken, spicy sauce on the side. The mac and cheese, the shrimp and grits, everything is a 10/10!”
2nd: Legacy Craft BBQ
3rd: A Boy Named Sous
BEST DINER
LUCILLE’S AMERICAN CAFE
205 3rd St SW, Winter Haven
(863) 875-5005
FB @lucilleswh
IG @lucillescafewh
With a cool, retro interior and breezy outdoor patio, Lucille’s American Cafe has plenty of space to enjoy superb diner fare. This classic American cafe offers heart- and belly-warming dishes like classic chicken noodle soup, Lucille’s homemade meatloaf, patty melts, and more. No pretense, only positive vibes here. Though they’ve only been open a few years, this Americana cafe already feels like a Winter Haven mainstay. “We had a great experience! The food was excellent - so flavorful and well prepared. The servers were fantastic - friendly and helpful in every way. The atmosphere was great - I love the way it is decorated! I would highly recommend this restaurant!” wrote one happy patron.
2nd: Egg Haven
3rd: Big Tom’s Diner
BEST FINE DINING
ARABELLAS RISTORANTE
346 W Central Ave, Winter Haven
(863) 293-1797
FB @ArabellasRistorante
Arabellas, you’re the fettuccine to my Alfredo! With a pianist, top-notch service, and exceptional fare, Arabellas is celebrated as the go-to spot for the Best Italian Food and Fine Dining. It’s an excellent choice for date night, special occasions, dining with great friends, or simply enjoying a wonderful meal in a stunning historical setting. The relaxing atmosphere and delectable food, paired with attentive staff, tableside service, and live piano music, make your dining experience truly memorable.
2nd: Nutwood
3rd: Harborside
BEST PATIO DINING
THE FIRE RESTAURANT
325 W Central Ave, Winter Haven
(863) 875-5544
FB @thefirerestaurant
IG @fire.restaurant
Mixing traditional and modern cuisine, Fire is an exceptional place to enjoy a meal on a sunny Florida afternoon or among the stars and string lights. This Central Avenue eatery offers two outdoor dining spaces – one in the front facing the hustle and bustle of downtown and a second, more intimate space through the back. “Hands down the best meal and ambience I’ve experienced in the state of Florida. This will likely be the best steak you have in the area. The pictures won’t do this justice,” wrote one Fire devotee.
2nd: Lucille’s American Cafe
3rd: Harborside
BEST CASUAL DINING
LUCILLE’S AMERICAN CAFE
205 3rd St SW, Winter Haven
(863) 875-5005
FB @lucilleswh
IG @lucillescafewh
Even though this Americana café has only been around for a few years, it already feels like a staple in Winter Haven. Owners Beth and Paul Nunez have worked tirelessly to bring the neon sign at Lucille’s—’Good. Vibes. Only.’—to life for their guests. Cheers to Lucille’s for clinching the title of Best Casual Dining! Their relaxed atmosphere and mouthwatering dishes are a perfect blend of comfort and flavor. They’ve served up a winning experience that’s sure to make everyone feel ‘right at home!’
2nd: The Fire Restaurant
3rd: Manny’s Original Chophouse
BEST WATERFRONT DINING
HARBORSIDE
2435 7th St SW, Winter Haven, FL 33880
(863) 293-7070
FB @HarborsideFL
IG @harborside_fl23
Harborside, you’re the shore thing for a great meal! Enjoy the Best Seafood while taking in the breathtaking views. For the second year running, voters have named Harborside as the top spot for waterfront dining. It’s a prime destination whether you arrive by car, boat, or seaplane, offering fresh seafood, steaks, and other casual fare. Almost every review highlights the stunning scenery. Guests love that the restaurant sits on the edge of a beautiful lake with incredible views, especially at sunset.
2nd: The Twisted Prop Bar & Grille
3rd: Tanners Lakeside Restaurant & Bar
BEST BAR
BARREL 239
239 3rd St SW, Winter Haven
(863) 229-7740
FB @barrel239
IG @barrel239
Congrats, Barrel, for getting into the winning ‘spirit!’ Winter Haven’s first and only whiskey bar, Barrel 239, is the place to be on a Friday or Saturday night. It offers a comfortable, laid-back vibe, exceptional service, and even better cocktails. They offer Happy Hour every day from 12 pm to 4 pm and all day on Sundays and Mondays. One patron wrote, “The vibe here is just right. Whether you’re up for some darts, cornhole, or just wanna chill and chat with friends, they’ve got you covered. It’s obvious the owners and the staff really care about making this place welcoming and fun.”
2nd: Somewhere Sports Bar & Grill
3rd: Ave Bar
BEST COCKTAILS
BARREL 239
239 3rd St SW, Winter Haven
(863) 229-7740
FB @barrel239
IG @barrel239
This 3rd Street mainstay won Best Bar this year and keeps knocking out the competition. Barrel 239 is Winter Haven’s first and only whiskey bar. They offer a variety of cocktails, including the classics. We hear they make a mean oldfashioned and a worthwhile whiskey sour. “The finest tavern when you need to quench your parched throat and have the hankering for an exquisite cocktail!” wrote one customer. “Wow, just stumbled into this amazing cocktail bar and it blew my mind, especially because it’s in such a small town,” wrote another.
2nd: Lucille’s American Cafe
3rd: The Social Cocktail Lounge
BEST WINE MENU
OBSCURE WINE COMPANY
276 W Central Ave, Winter Haven
(863) 268-6555
FB @obscurewine
IG @obscurewine
Obscure Wine Company has quickly become a gem in downtown Winter Haven. This Central Avenue wine bar and shop boasts an extensive selection of wines from around the globe, available by the bottle or glass. Owner and sommelier Wellie Liao is on hand to help patrons discover the ‘pour-fect’ wine for their tastes or meal pairings. Wine-not join me for a glass? Their selection is bound to leave you ‘bubbling’ with joy and ‘crushing’ on every vintage.
2nd: Arabellas Ristorante
3rd: Grape Expectations
BEST COFFEE SHOP
RICHARD’S FINE COFFEES
330 Avenue A NW, Winter Haven
(863) 291-3082
FB: Richard’s Fine Coffees
IG @richards_coffee
Richard’s is the ideal community coffee shop, and this city loves them a latte! This cozy spot overlooking Central Park offers ample indoor and outdoor seating. New owners Koreen and Jimmy Hobbs took over Richard’s Fine Coffees late last year and are committed to keeping the same outstanding quality and service “with a woman’s touch.” Known for their darn good coffee and espresso beverages, Richard’s also offers tea, smoothies, soft beverages, kombucha, and cold brew. Richard’s is most known for its killer pressed Cuban piled high with ham, roasted pork, Genoa salami, Swiss cheese, pickles, and homemade sauce on authentic Ybor City Cuban bread. The menu also boasts an assortment of breakfast sandwiches, hot and cold sandwiches, salads, chicken and tuna salad, bagels, and pastries.
2nd: Haven Coffee Roasters
3rd: Honeycomb Bread Bakers
BEST BEER LIST
GROVE ROOTS BREWING COMPANY
302 3rd St SW, Winter Haven
(863) 291-0700
FB @groverootsbrewing
IG @groverootsbrewing
I’m feeling hoppy! Grove Roots has consistently been a favorite on the Beer List year after year. This brewery boasts an impressive selection of beers, with Tropical Dilemma earning the title of Best Beer this year. They warmly welcome guests to bring along their kids and dogs. In addition to their flagship brews—Slanted Ladders, Wakes of Grain, Rind & Shine, and 6 am Pickers—the Grove Roots team is always brewing up seasonal and special-release varieties. Their spacious Tasting Room provides plenty of seating, and the outside features picnic tables and lawn chairs. Check their socials for live music and food trucks on a regular basis.
2nd: Union Taproom
3rd: Jessie’s Lounge
BEST POLK COUNTY BEER
TROPICAL DILEMMA | GROVE ROOTS BREWING COMPANY
302 3rd St SW, Winter Haven
(863) 291-0700
FB @groverootsbrewing
IG @groverootsbrewing
This brew is un-beer-lievably good! Tropical Dilemma is a standout sour beer with a 4.4% ABV. It features delightful strawberry notes and a crisp, refreshing sour flavor. It’s perfectly refreshing when the temperature soars above 90 degrees. Cheers to enjoying locally made, award-winning beer! Savoring this ‘tropi-cool’ brew brings a taste of paradise right to your glass.
2nd: Rind & Shine | Grove Root
3rd: Slanted Ladders | Grove Roots
BEST HAPPY HOUR
BARREL 239
239 3rd St SW, Winter Haven
(863) 229-7740
FB @barrel239
IG @barrel239
Best Bar, Best Cocktails, and Best Happy Hour?! Barrel 239 can’t be stopped. Known for their relaxed vibes, chill outdoor patio space and killer cocktails, what’s not to love? Winter Haven’s first and only whiskey bar offers Happy Hour every day from 12 pm to 4 pm and all day on Sundays and Mondays! 2nd: Lucille’s American Cafe 3rd: Ave Bar BEST U-PICK FARM WHITEHEAD’S BLUEBERRY FARM 1024 Macon Rd, Winter Haven (863) 860-4575 FB @whiteheadsblueberryfarm IG @whiteheadfarm Let’s have a berry good day at Whitehead’s Blueberry Farm! What began as a plant nursery in 1979 evolved into a blueberry farm by 2000. During the next blueberry season, which typically runs from the first Wednesday in April through mid-May, gather your friends and a few baskets for a day of blueberry picking at Whitehead’s Blueberry Farm. This 33-acre family-owned farm features over 30,000 blueberry plants spread across 15 acres. Visitors can pick as many blueberries as they like for a set price per pound. On Saturdays and Sundays, the farm also offers wagon rides to help you explore all areas. From grandparents to toddlers, there’s something for everyone.
2nd: Lonesome Oak Blueberry Farm
3rd: Ridge Island Groves
BEST NEW RESTAURANT
MARITIME
302 4th St SW, Winter Haven
(863) 229-7167
FB @maritime.divein
IG @maritime_wh
The guys who brought you hits like Cob and Pen, Good Thyme, and Rec Room present Maritime! This raw bar, coastal concept boasts quite the oyster and cocktail program. Three to four raw oyster options are available and are served with Travis’s Hot Sauce, house cocktail, grilled lemon, and saltines. Guests can also order them charbroiled or steamed. Maritime offers coastal eats like fish and chips and a lobster roll two ways, along with other guest favorites, including steak frites with Maritime butter and the succulent Bowen Yard Burger. Maritime will eventually open a passthrough window where folks can order food and cocktails from their tiki-themed cocktail menu. One patron wrote, “Maritime is such a wonderful addition to Winter Haven! If you are craving great seafood, you have to stop by!”
2nd: Morena’s Restaurant-Cafe Dominican & Cuban Cuisine
3rd: HotShots Downtown Sports Bar & Grill
BEST CATERING COMPANY
THE CATERING COMPANY OF CENTRAL FLORIDA
2090 Havendale Blvd NW, Winter Haven
(863) 207-7057
FB @thecateringcompanyofcentralfl
IG @cateringco.ofcentralflorida
Using fresh, local ingredients, the Catering Company of Central Florida aims to “provide flavor-forward dishes, custom to each event menu to fit any budget” for their clients. One glowing review reads, “Hands down, the best catering I have ever had. The tasting pre-wedding was perfect and the day of the wedding was even better. I will hire The Catering Company for every future event.” No matter the scope of your event, The Catering Company can meet your needs – twenty people or 200, brunch, corporate lunch, charcuterie, rehearsal dinner – you name it, they can do it!
2nd: Catering Oasis
3rd: Cam’s Catering
BEST VEGAN FOOD
VEGAN MONARCH BAKERY & CAFÉ
371 Ave D NW, Winter Haven
(863) 734-9148
FB @veganmonarchbakery
IG @veganmonarchbakery
Let’s cake it easy with some vegan treats! Vegan Monarch Bakery and Café are cherished for their delectable, high-quality, plant-based, vegan, and gluten-free offerings. They serve hearty savory options like gluten-free lasagna, chik’n and waffles, Better Than Meatloaf, and a variety of baked treats. As Vegan Monarch Bakery & Cafe states, “We take pride in catering to those often overlooked: individuals with food intolerances such as dairy, eggs, gluten, and soy, those seeking healthy alternatives, and those with allergies who might miss out on the delicious treats enjoyed by others.”
2nd: InnerG Cafe
3rd: Mediterranean Fresh Grill
BEST BAKERY
HONEYCOMB BREAD BAKERS
140 6th St SW, Winter Haven
(863) 662-5513
FB @honeycombbread
IG @honeycombbread
Honeycomb, you’re the toast of the town! Benjamin Vickers opened his Winter Haven storefront three years ago (seems like it was yeast-erday). Honeycomb has since become a popular spot for breakfast and lunch, serving up a range of locally roasted Ethos Coffee along with delicious housemade offerings of croissants, muffins, scones, donuts, cookies, quiche, bagels with schmear, salads, and sandwiches on freshly baked sourdough bread.
2nd: Gourmet Goodies Bake Shop
3rd: Sugar & Slice
BEST HIDDEN GEM
NUTWOOD
132 Ave B SW, Winter Haven
(863) 229-7770
FB: Nutwood
IG @nutwoodwh
Discovering this gem was a priceless experience! From the quaint, brick-lined outdoor patio shaded by a grand oak tree and surrounded by lush greenery to the elegant, sophisticated indoor dining rooms, the setting is perfect for an extraordinary meal. Since its opening in 2017, Nutwood has attracted food enthusiasts from across the Sunshine State to savor dishes crafted by Michelin Star Chef Steven Rojas. This Winter Haven gem has even earned the Golden Spoon Award from Trend magazine.
2nd: Cherry Pocket Steak n Seafood
3rd: Chilly Masala Indian Cuisine
BEST SERVICE
LUCILLE’S AMERICAN CAFE
205 3rd St SW, Winter Haven
(863) 875-5005
FB @lucilleswh
IG @lucillescafewh
Lucille’s offers a mid-century modern vibe and plenty of tasty, made-from-scratch homestyle fare. Patrons love their comfort food, creative cocktails, and, of course, their service. Many reviews note the exceptional service they receive at Lucille’s American Cafe, spotlighting numerous staff who make their dining experience rave-worthy. One customer wrote, “It’s a blast from the past! The atmosphere brings back a 60’s / 70’s vibe, but the service is absolutely 5-star! The servers are attentive and personable. They provided the best service I have had in years!”
2nd: Tsunami Sushi
3rd: Honeycomb Bread Bakers
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