Best Pizza
PALACE PIZZA DOWNTOWN
114 S Kentucky Ave, Lakeland
(863) 688-0045
FB @palacepizzadowntown
IG @palacepizzadtwn
Restaurant royalty in Downtown Lakeland, Palace Pizza brings over 25 years of experience to the table. The authentic Italian flavor of their pizzas (by the slice or the pan), calzones, classic pasta, salads, desserts, and more are all thanks to their traditional recipes and only the freshest ingredients. Like Palace Pizza says, “Fresh dough, quality tomatoes, and 100% whole milk mozzarella cheese make our pizza just one of the unforgettable taste adventures.” And holy moly, they have homemade cannolis!
2nd: J. Burns’ Pizza Shop
3rd: Ava – The Joinery
Best Burger
THE CHOP SHOP
118 S Kentucky Ave, Lakeland
(863) 603-4040
FB @chopshopburgers
IG @chopshopburgers
This one-stop-burger-shop serves up American classics and burgers with a twist. A hot rod-themed hangout since 2006, The Chop Shop is known for their world-famous “Burgers that Rock!” Along with the campy car theme, The Chop Shop gets even campier with their burger names and concepts like the B.A.D. (Breakfast All Day) Burger, Blue Suede, Hawgzilla, and Bunny. Enjoy a cold one with your Bandito Burger from their selection of craft beers on tap by the bottle, wine, and full bar.
2nd: Super Duper Spot – The Joinery
3rd: Burger 21
Best Tacos
TACO BUS
126 S Kentucky Ave, Lakeland
(863) 816-5407
FB @tacobus863
IG @tacobus863
Spice up your taco Tuesday by rolling up to the Taco Bus. We’re talking tacos, tostadas, burritos, quesadillas, tortas, papos, bowls, chimichangas, and more! According to them, “Just one bite of a burrito, tostada, or quesadilla, and your taste buds will be singing traditional Mexican folk songs!” Their Best-Of-winning tacos are made on hard corn, soft corn, or flour tortillas, with a choice of protein and cheese. Their plentiful protein options include grilled chicken, spicy chicken, shredded pork, ground beef, steak, fish, shrimp, vegan ‘steak,’ and more. Treat yourself with tres leches or churros to boot!
2nd: Tapatio’s Mexican Restaurant
3rd: Mega Mercado
Best Wings
WINNERS CIRCLE SPORTS BAR AND GRILL
4215 Florida Ave S, Lakeland
(863) 644-9464
FB @winnerscirclelkld
IG @wcsportsbar
Wings are always near the top of the list when you ask Winners Circle regulars what keeps them coming back. This good-time family-owned sports bar started in 2002 and hosts weekly events like trivia, karaoke, poker, corn-hole, beer pong, and the like. The three-time championship title holder of “King of the Wing,” Winners Circle doesn’t mess around when it comes to their wings. Winners Circle Championship Wings are available bone-in (breaded or naked) or boneless (grilled or fried). Mouth watering for some wings? Winners Circle has some 45 flavors to toss them in over the mild, medium, and hot spectrum including classics like BBQ and garlic parmesan, or more unique offerings like PB&J, Cinnamon Toast Crunch, Pineapple Habanero, and Zesty Cheddar.
2nd: Beef ‘O’ Brady’s
3rd: The WingHouse Bar & Grill
Best Cuban Sandwich
ELENA’S CUBAN CAFE
2246 E Edgewood Dr, Lakeland
(863) 665-3333
FB: Elena’s Cuban Cafe
This Edgewood Drive eatery boasts a madeto-order, fresh-pressed Cuban sandwich Best Of LKLD voters can’t resist. Elena’s has been serving their authentic Cuban fare in town for over 18 years. One customer reviewed in part, “Delicious, authentic Cuban food that makes you want to visit Havana. I love this restaurant and the people that run it. They provide such a nice mom and pop shop atmosphere while serving food that’s to die for. We love this place!”
2nd: Cuban Delights Cafe
3rd: La Imperial Bakery
Best Italian Restaurant
SCARPA’S ITALIAN
1833 E Edgewood Dr, Lakeland
(863) 937-8940
FB @scarpasitalian
IG @scarpasitalian
Open only for dinner, Scarpa’s serves yearover-year award-winning Italian fare. The restaurant is family-owned and operated by Glenn, a former chef at Mario’s for twelve years, and Ashley Scarpa. The Scarpa’s opened their restaurant in December of 2013 and serve local Florida seafood and Italian classics. They’ve since added housemade pasta and even had a visit from Chef Emeril Lagassé for his show, Emeril’s Florida in 2016. Expect food made fresh daily and prepared to order along with an extensive wine list. Be sure to reserve a table for date night at this favorite Lakeland dining destination.
2nd: Palace Pizza
3rd: Il Forno Italian Restaurant
Best Sushi
NEW MOON SUSHI
4231 Florida Ave S, Lakeland
(863) 647-1212
FB @newmoonsushi
IG @newmoonsushi
Just roll with it! New Moon Sushi offers a sizable selection of traditional Japanese dishes, sushi and sashimi rolls as well as tempura, teriyaki dishes, and more. Their bites are at the intersection of modern and traditional cuisine – you’re sure to find sushi to scream over. Pair your Kiss of Fire Roll with hot sake or your Lakeland Roll with a signature cocktail or glass of wine.
2nd: Fancy Q Sushi & Thai
3rd: Tsunami Sushi & Hibachi
Best BBQ Restaurant
MOJO FEDERAL SWINE & SPIRITS
130 S Tennessee Ave, Lakeland
(863) 937-4226
FB @MOJOFederal
IG @mojofederal
MOJO Federal is bringing the smoke again! The Federal Building is full of sweet heat thanks to MOJO Federal including the likes of Kansas City Burnt Ends, Pulled Pork, and Shrimp and Grits – shut your mouth! This cathedral of classic barbecue offering smoked meats and scratch sides, also has considerable cocktails, spirits, craft beer, and a whiskey bar to enjoy amidst the exposed brick and lofty ceilings of a historic Lakeland landmark.
2nd: Jimbo’s Pit Bar B-Q
3rd: Blue Dog Craft Barbecue
Best Donut Shop
HOLE IN ONE DONUTS
Multiple Locations in Central Florida
2076 E Edgewood Dr, Lakeland
(863) 665-8385
FB @holeinonelakeland
Donuts to die for are par for the course at Hole In One Donuts. Again they claim the number one Best Of LKLD spot for their glazed, sprinkled, cream filled, and powdered sugar goodness. Customers rave about their fair prices, friendly staff, and fresh, fluffy donuts. One reviewer wrote, “The only problem is trying not to eat them all by yourself. Donuts are excellent – apple fritters, even better.”
2nd: Charlie’s Mini Donuts & Coffee
3rd: The Juice Box Cafe
Best Sub Sandwich
SUBS ‘N SUCH
1008 South Florida Ave, Lakeland
(863) 686-9035
4525 South Florida Ave, Lakeland
(863) 370-3774
FB @subsnsuchlakeland
IG @subsnsuchlakeland
Deep within the ‘sub’conscious of every Lakeland sammie lover, ‘sub’merged just below the surface sits a happy yellow submarine. You know them, you love them, you want some more of them. Subs ‘n Such, family-owned and operated since 1977, is easily recognized by their yellow submarine logo. Whether you’ve got a ham and cheese hankering or a craving for chicken parm, this Lakeland sub spot has you covered with a selection of hot and cold subs, along with soups, salads, hot dogs, specialties, and more. One customer wrote in part, “Love this place. Been a staple in Lakeland since I moved here as a kid. Quality ingredients and unique creations at a fair hometown price.”
2nd: Publix
3rd: Jimmy John’s
Best Mexican Restaurant
TAPATIO’S RESTAURANT MEXICANO
734 E Memorial Blvd, Lakeland
(863) 686-6958
FB @Tapatios
IG @tapatios_memorial
6645 Florida Ave S, Lakeland
(863) 646-2199
FB @Tapatios2
IG @tapatios2
Tapatio’s has two locations to satisfy your Mexican food craving using the freshest meat, produce, and ingredients. Their menu boasts traditional dishes from tacos and burritos to enchiladas, fajitas, and more. “The Tapatio’s Restaurants take real pride in serving our guests authentic Mexican dishes made with all the finest ‘south of the border’ ingredients,” according to their social media. Put your Netflix and Chill plans on hold and opt instead for some Guac and Talk at Tapatios, am I right?
2nd: Abuelo’s Mexican Restaurant
3rd: Mega Mercado
Best Breakfast Restaurant
FIRST WATCH
4620 Florida Ave S Suite 130, Lakeland
(863) 272-7929
4316 US Hwy 98, Lakeland
(863) 709-8833
FB @FirstWatch
IG @first.watch
First Watch is makin’ the bacon and has plenty of egg-citing bright and early eats. Your hunger will be toast with First Watch breakfast classics like The Traditional (two fresh cage-free eggs any style with your choice of bacon, smoked ham, chicken sausage patties, turkey or pork sausage links. Served with whole grain artisan toast, all-natural house preserves and fresh, and seasoned potatoes), French toast, and Belgian waffles. Or opt for something on the healthier side like avocado toast, a power wrap, A.M. Superfood Bowl, or juice from their juice bar. That sounds like a good morning!
2nd: Keke’s Breakfast Cafe
3rd: Fat Jack’s Deli & Pub
Best Seafood Restaurant
SHELLS SEAFOOD
5125 Florida Ave S, Lakeland
(863) 213-4889
FB @shellsoflakeland
Shells is a beloved Lakeland seafood staple – a real catch! The restaurant chain opened in 1985, “with a simple philosophy of serving great quality seafood in a casual atmosphere!” Fresh or fried, you can’t go wrong with oysters on the half shell, coconut shrimp, baby lobster pasta, crab cakes, king crab, and the like. Shells’ Clam Chowder loaded with clams, potatoes, bacon, and spices is touted as “the best clam chowder you’ll ever eat!” If you’re feeling crabby, Shells will cheer you right up.
2nd: Harry’s Seafood Bar & Grille
3rd: Fish City Grill
Best Thai Restaurant
THAI OISHI RESTAURANT
1535 Town Center Dr, Lakeland
(863) 333-0657
FB @ThaiOishiRestaurant
Looking for something spicy to Thai you over? Thai Oishi prides themselves in serving only the freshest and finest ingredients in their Japanese and Thai dishes. Quaint and upscale, this Town Center eatery offers everything from Thai chicken wings and tuna tataki, to a full menu of sushi and sashimi. One reviewer wrote, “Excellent sushi and Thai dishes. Friendly service. Thai Oishi is a favorite with our family.”
2nd: Spice Thai & Sushi
3rd: The Rib House
Best Mediterranean Restaurant
CAFÉ ZUPPINA
4417 Florida Ave S, Lakeland
(863) 644-5144
FB @CafeZuppina
IG @cafezuppina
The food is as pleasing to look at as it is to eat. Chief cooks and owners, Berna and Erkan make everything from scratch and with love. The pair are originally from Turkey and serve Cafe Zuppina customers the same recipes they enjoyed growing up, using fresh fruits and vegetables. Tucked away in the Courtyard Center on South Florida Avenue, this bistro is cozy and compact. No matter what you select off their menu, from the Veggie Platter to Zuppina’s Chicken Limone, expect vivid simplicity and stunning flavors.
2nd: Plenty – The Joinery
3rd: Louis Pappas
Best Indian Restaurant
CURRY MANGO
6625 Florida Ave S, Lakeland
(863) 940-2275
FB @mycurrymango
IG @mycurrymango
Winner for Best New Restaurant in 2020, Curry Mango has returned this year to solidify their spot on the Best Of LKLD list in a different category. Their menu is vast, brimming with authentic Indian flavors from Mango Chutney Wings to Duck Curry and Chicken Tikka. Bright dishes match that of their modest contemporary digs. Guests appreciate their authenticity, level of service and food, and ambiance. Curry Mango is the perfect place to initiate yourself if you haven’t yet tried Indian cuisine. One review in part reads, “The best Indian food I’ve had In Florida. The flavors were immaculate.”
2nd: Cafe Roti
3rd: MyIndiKitchen
Best Chinese Restaurant
PEKING HOUSE
2411 Florida Ave S, Lakeland
(863) 688-9022
FB: Peking House
Peking house has all the familiar Chinese favorites from dumplings and Mu-Shu Pork to Chicken Chow Mein, and Chinese Donuts. Their dishes are made to order, prepared with fresh ingredients, and bound to make you soy happy! Common raves about the restaurant include affordability, yummy food, and friendly service. This is the place to stop for stellar Chinese take-out (or dine-in) according to our Best Of LKLD voters.
2nd: Ling’s Buffet
3rd: China Wok
Best Oysters
GARY’S OYSTER BAR & SEAFOOD HOUSE
660 E Alfred St, Lake Alfred
(863) 956-5055
FB: Garys Oyster Bar
Gary’s, “the oldest oyster bar in Polk County,” is a not-so-hidden gem offering a cozy, casual atmosphere and “a true Florida seafood experience.” Their Char-Grilled Parmesan Oysters and the Jalapeño Bacon Oysters compete for guest favorite. Gary’s oysters, steamed or raw, will leave you in half-shell heaven, thinking ‘Why the shuck did I wait so long to try this place?’
2nd: Fish City Grill
Best Ice Cream
MAYDAY ICE CREAM
640 E Main St, Lakeland (Inside The Joinery)
(863) 529-6708
FB @maydayicecream
IG @maydayicecream
Come in close, I’ll give you inside scoop – Mayday Ice Cream is THE BEST! Sorry for yelling. Everyone is screaming for this ice cream shop located inside The Joinery. Mayday prides themselves in dishing out handcrafted ice cream, topped with homemade sprinkles, served in homemade waffle cones (you can smell them when you walk in – holy cow). Enjoy there or grab a pint to go of flavors to melt over like Mint Monster, Cloud 9, Parent Trap, Ice Box Lemon, and Coffee + Donuts.
2nd: Bruster’s Real Ice Cream
3rd: Lakeland Ice Cream Company
Best Food Truck
WAFU
FB @wafutaiyaki
IG @wafutaiyaki
Cute fish logo, cute fish waffle – Wafu was a shoo-in for Best Food Truck. This Lakelandbased culinary concept started in 2020 and serves a Japanese-style waffle called taiyaki. Wafu taiyaki waffles are made with sweet or savory fillings. For your sweet tooth, the Wafu menu includes Anko, “A Japanese sweet red bean paste freshly made from organic azuki beans. It is a traditional filling used in many Japanese sweets.” Also on the saccharine side are the custard cream, Nutella, and matcha flavors which can be topped with caramel sauce, dark chocolate sauce, pure maple syrup, or powdered sugar. For an adorable fish-shaped savory snack, Wafu offers Bacon + Cheddar taiyaki and a Grilled Cheese Toastie taiyaki.
2nd: Jimmy’s Famous Seafood Express
3rd: Salt & Fire Food Lab
Best Diner
REECECLIFF FAMILY DINER
940 Florida Ave S, Lakeland
(863) 686-6661
IG @reececliff.diner
Since 1934, this iconic Lakeland diner has been serving Americana diner fare in a “down-home atmosphere.” Reececliff offers breakfast, lunch, and dinner Southern classics and credits their long-running success in part to a head chef that has been with the diner for over 40 years. Even their pies have been “crafted by the same expert for more than 50 years.”
2nd: Fat Jack’s Deli & Pub
3rd: Britt’s Cafe
Best Fine Dining
NINETEEN61
215 E Main St, Lakeland
(863) 688-1961
FB @nineteen61
IG @nineteen61_
Chic Downtown dining destination, Nineteen61, was opened in the fall of 2015 by Chef Marcos Fernandez. Year after year, the restaurant continues to claim multiple spots on our Best Of LKLD list for its fine dining, romantic atmosphere, and wine list. According to their website, “The conceptualized Restaurant is an integration of Modern Spanish style with Latin American and Southern propensities, in a setting unique to Central Florida.” Their award-winning fine dining can be credited to Nineteen61 partnering with local growers for fresh ingredients, a dedicated team, and a “system and culture of excellence with personal accountability.” Chef Marcos Fernandez noted Nineteen61 as the “beginning of a change in Lakeland’s hospitality culture.”
2nd: Scarpa’s Italian
3rd: Terrace Grille
Best Patio Dining
PATIO850
850 S Tennessee Ave, Lakeland
(863) 940-2030
FB @Patio850
IG @patio850
The brick lined outdoor dining space of Patio850, framed by greenery and dreamy string lights, transports patrons to an Italian piazza. This intimate city hideaway focuses on “food, wine, & fun,” with an emphasis on the former. Their menu is brimming with salads, spreads, shared plates, sandwiches, and meals. For their food (and their awardwinning patio dining space) “Think European meets American meets Southern, with locally sourced produce and ingredients to enhance the flavors and support the community.”
2nd: Red Door Lakeland
3rd: Harry’s Seafood Bar & Grille
Best Waterfront Dining
HARBORSIDE
2435 7th St SW, Winter Haven
(863) 293-7070
FB @HarborsideFL
IG @harborsiderestaurant
Harborside’s wave-lapping, sunset views of Lake Shipp make for an idyllic respite to enjoy surf and turf and a beachy cocktail. In a landslide again this year, Best Of LKLD voters singled out Harborside as the premier place for waterfront dining across the county. It is a top destination by car, boat, even seaplane for fresh seafood, steaks, and other casual bites. Their Chain of Lakes views are unmatched!
2nd: Tantrum’s Lakeside Grill
3rd: Garden Bistro
Best Bar
REVIVAL
119 S Kentucky Ave, Lakeland
(863) 606-6090
FB @revivallakeland
IG @revivallakeland
As the name would imply, owner and Head Mixologist, Jeannie Weaver has brought a spirits revival to Downtown Lakeland – and this isn’t her first time on the Best Of LKLD list because of that. Speakeasy vibes abound with a sprawling bookcase, velvet chairs, warm wooden shotgun bar, and of course, bespoke beverages. If I wore a necktie, Revival is the place I’d loosen it and settle in for a few Duck Fat Old Fashioneds after a hard day’s work. Revival said it best, “No gimmicks, no snazz, just the belief that a beverage program can challenge you to enjoy the marriage of some of Earth’s finest pleasures. Fine Spirits & Fine Company.”
2nd: Swan Brewing
3rd: Rec Room
Best Cocktails
REVIVAL
119 S Kentucky Ave, Lakeland
(863) 606-6090
FB @revivallakeland
IG @revivallakeland
Revival Bar has earned a reputation for mastery of the classics and continued ‘spirited’ innovation. Patrons can sip specialty cocktails, the menu lists a full page of Old Fashioneds, absinthe, Tiki drinks, Spritz, or any of the Revival Classics like a Faux-Spresso Martini, Hibiscus Paloma, Penicillin, or Trinidad Sour. Enjoy the BEST cocktail at the BEST bar in all of the Swan City!
2nd: The Joinery
3rd: MOJO Federal Swine & Spirits
Best Wine Menu
NINETEEN61
215 E Main St, Lakeland
(863) 688-1961
FB @nineteen61
IG @nineteen61_
Award-winning fine dining fare, a romantic atmosphere, and a lauded wine list are among the many attributes of this downtown lunch and dinner hot spot. Opened in Fall of 2015 by Chef Marcos Fernandez, Nineteen61 has offerings of reds, whites, blends, sparkling, and dessert wines – a more than modest wine list by the glass and bottle. Cheers with a glass of Caymus or salud with Scala Dei!
2nd: Red Door Lakeland
3rd: Scarpa’s Italian
Best Coffeehouse
BLACK & BREW COFFEE HOUSE & BISTRO
205 E Main St, Lakeland
(863) 682-1210
100 Lake Morton Dr, Lakeland
(863) 500-9500
FB @blackandbrew
IG @blackandbrew
More than a coffeehouse, Black & Brew is a place where “Friendships are forged, romances kindled, and business deals sealed in an environment that was created to facilitate connections and remind us of our humanity.” Started in 2006 by brothers Chris and Michael McArthur, B&B’s flagship location is Downtown overlooking Munn Park with a second spot off Lake Morton at the Lakeland Public Library. They offer a menu of drinks including traditional espresso beverages, coffee, tea, hot (or frozen) chocolate, frappes, and even feature wines and craft beer along with nourishments for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
2nd: Concord Coffee
3rd: Hillcrest Coffee
Best Beer List
SWAN BREWING
115 W Pine St, Lakeland
(863) 703-0472
2972 Lakeland Highlands Rd, Lakeland
(863) 698-7250
FB @swanbrewingco
IG @swanbrewing
Classic and innovative beers, brewed right in the heart of Lakeland. Swan Brewing’s appreciation for the city and passion for beer can be seen (or rather, tasted) across their 30 taps, including two dedicated Nitro lines at their flagship Pine Street location and 16 taps at Swan Brewing South. They feature beers with local names like the Straight Outta Lakeland IPA (the Best Of LKLD beer winner this year) and Poke County Pils. Swan has over 40 years of combined brewing experience backing their beers, so grab a cold one and enjoy the relaxed, pet and familyfriendly atmosphere. Cheers!
2nd: Cob & Pen
3rd: Craft + Kitchen
Best Florida Wine
KEEL + CURLEY WINERY
5202 Thonotosassa Rd, Plant City
(813) 752-9100
FB @keelandcurleyatkeelfarms
IG @keelandcurleyatkeelfarms
In the spring of 2003, farmer Joe Keel made 10 gallons of blueberry wine in his farmhouse kitchen. Those 10 gallons were the catalyst for what is now the beloved and awardwinning Keel + Curley Winery. K+C has three signature wines made with 100% blueberries. Guests love their innovative fusions (a blend of grape wine and fruit juice) like Wild Berry Pinot Noir, Peach Chardonnay, and Key West Key Lime Wine. Keel Farms has a tasting room where you can reserve space to try 1oz. pours of eight different Keel + Curley flavors.
2nd: Lakeridge Winery & Vineyards
3rd: Strong Tower Vineyard & Winery
Best Polk County Beer
STRAIGHT OUTTA LAKELAND IPA - AMERICAN | SWAN BREWING
115 W Pine St, Lakeland
(863) 703-0472
2972 Lakeland Highlands Rd, Lakeland
(863) 698-7250
FB @swanbrewingco
IG @swanbrewing
An ode to the Swan City, Straight Outta Lakeland is an IPA with 7% ABV and 55 IBU. On Untappd, this Swan Brewing staple is said to be, “Exactly what you would expect in a West Coast Style IPA - crisp, clean with a subtle bite!”
2nd: Tropical Dilemma - Sour | Grove Roots Brewing Co.
3rd: The Bean - Coconut and Coffee Blonde | Swan Brewing
Best U-Pick Farm
SHADY OAK FARM
3320 Shady Oak Dr E, Lakeland
(863) 512-1547
FB @shadyoaklakeland
IG @shadyoakfarm
Though blueberry season in Florida is already over (April and May), it’s never too early to start planning next year’s U-pick outing. There are plenty of pies, cobblers, jam, muffins, and more to be made with Shady Oak Farm’s 26,000 blueberry plants to pick from. The family-owned and operated farm, in business for over 16 years, boasts five varieties of blueberries: Emerald, Jewels, Gulf Coast, Sharp Blue, and Spring High. Have a picnic by the pond and purchase a blueberry plant of your very own which comes with the mulch they are planted in and detailed plant care instructions.
2nd: Whitehead’s Blueberry Farm
3rd: 5K Farms Organic U-Pick
Best New Restaurant
LOVEBIRD ALMOST FAMOUS CHICKEN
2101 Florida Ave S, Lakeland
(863) 937-8055
FB @lovebirdeats
IG @lovebird.eats
LoveBird’s from scratch chicken has had folks lining up outside the building since opening earlier this year. This top-notch chicken shack is a new Lakeland favorite for its always fresh, never frozen chicken brined for at least 24 hours, hand-battered, soaked in buttermilk, and breaded with LB’s housemade flour and spice blend. Their menu features southern fare done right, like the Nashville Hot chicken sandwich with slaw, sweet pickles, and bird sauce on a fresh challah bun, or the Bird & the Bee with chili-infused hot honey, whipped butter, and sweet pickles on a fresh challah bun. Mmmmmm. According to LoveBird, “We’re not a big conglomerate, not a multi-state franchise, heck, we’re not even a multiple city chain. Just a couple folks doing our best to make the best chicken we know how. People love it, but not everyone has had it. So it’s almost famous, ya know?”
2nd: Andy’s Frozen Custard
3rd: Walk-On’s Sports Bistreaux
Best Catering
TERRIE LOBB CATERING
1239 E Main Street, Bartow
(863) 533-6483
FB: Terrie Lobb Catering, Inc.
IG @terrielobbcatering
After attending The American Culinary Academy, Terrie Lobb opened the Bartowbased cafe, The Docket. She catered on the side and found it was suited to her culinary and hospitality abilities. In 2000, she started Catering by Chef Terrie Lobb out of her home, preparing, delivering, and serving each dish herself. Over twenty years later, Terrie Lobb Catering, Inc. employs full-time chefs and professional servers and has proven to be the Best Of Catering in Lakeland. One client wrote, “Amazing experience all the way around. Food was amazing & staff were so helpful & kind. Cannot say enough good things about them & looking forward to crossing paths again.”
2nd: Blue Dog Craft Barbecue
3rd: Essential Catering Solutions
Best Romantic Restaurant
NINETEEN61
215 E Main St, Lakeland
(863) 688-1961
FB @nineteen61
IG @nineteen61_
Date night has been decided! The mood, thoughtful cuisine, and extensive wine list makes for the perfect romantic evening out. Reserve a table at Nineteen61 and make your date feel really special with an experience that has become the standard for fine dining in the city. Order a nightcap from Bar61 and stroll Munn Park for a memorable evening.
2nd: Scarpa’s Italian
3rd: Patio850
Best Vegan Restaurant
VEGETATION PLANT FOOD
FB @vegetationplantfood
IG @vegetationplantfood
A scroll through Vegetation Plant Food’s social media will make even the most ravenous of meat-eaters think, ‘Veggies sound really good right about now.’ Founder Rima Schillinger prepares whole food plant-based meals that are available weekly in Lakeland. Some of the hearty options on her changing menu include the likes of mac & cheeze & peas, creamy alfredo sauce, nacho cheeze, karma shawarma, and pecan cardamom cookies. In a note on their website, Rima writes, “I cook whole food plant based meals for you so that you can reach and maintain optimum health. I want to nourish you and your family in the most healthful way possible and I want you to love this way of eating as much as I do.”
2nd: Plenty – The Joinery
3rd: SoFresh
Best Dog-Friendly Restaurant
THE JOINERY
640 E Main St, Lakeland
(863) 337-4583
FB @thejoinerylkld
IG @thejoinerylkld
Finally! A place where Fluffy can join in on the fun! The Joinery is a ‘modern food hall’ started by Jonathan and Sarah Bucklew. The Lake Mirror hangout is home to a florist, craft cocktail bar, and seven food vendors with offerings from ice cream, ramen, and street tacos, to burgers, pizza, plant-based fare, and poke bowls. Patrons love to bring their pets and The Joinery loves to have them! According to their FAQ page, well-behaved and leashed dogs are welcome on the back patio, as well as the side and back lawns, and service animals are permitted inside according to federal and state regulations. If you bring your pup for a pick-me-up, be sure to ask one of the bartenders for a water bowl!
2nd: Frescos Southern Kitchen & Bar
3rd: Swan Brewing
Best Bakery
BORN & BREAD BAKEHOUSE
1113 Florida Ave S, Lakeland
FB @bornandbreadbakehouse
IG @bornandbreadfl
Get your baked goods hot and fresh and “handcrafted with love” from this Lakeland gem. From the farmers market to a Florida Avenue bakehouse to the “Forbes Next 1,000” list, owner Jenn Smurr built and grew a following of folks far and wide that happily line up every Saturday for some of B&B’s fresh bread, cruffins, cookies, croissants, breakfast sammies, and other handcrafted treats. In 2019, Born & Bread debuted their Wednesday evening services featuring craveworthy sandwiches from Banh Mi’s to BLTs, house-made pot pies, and other inspired fare. Wednesday and Saturday preorders for B&B goods are available on their website!
2nd: Honeycomb Bread Bakers
3rd: La Imperial Bakery
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