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  • Haven Best of 2023 - Home Services

    BEST REALTOR ERIN FLOYD COLDWELL BANKER REALTY (863) 412-2286 FB: Erin Floyd - Coldwell Banker Realty - Winter Haven IG @erinfloydteam erinfloydteam.com Florida native Erin Floyd lives in Lake Wales, where she is an active member of East Polk County Association of Realtors. She started her career in real estate in 2008 and according to Coldwell Banker, “Erin has an astute knowledge of the real estate markets with numerous career-long awards and achievements that verify her ambition and success. She is passionate to provide her clients with her utmost attention by listening and understanding their wants and needs, then helping them weigh their wish list with price point.” Clients make note of Floyd’s organization, responsiveness, professionalism, and overall effectiveness resulting in a seamless selling and buying process. 2nd: Jack Myers | Century 21 Myers Realty 3rd: April Spaulding | Keller Williams Realty Smart 1 BEST REALTY CO. CENTURY 21 MYERS REALTY 304 East Park St, Auburndale (863) 875-5656 FB: Century 21 Myers Realty IG @century21myersrealty century21myersrealty.com CENTURY 21 Myers Realty is a full-service realty and property management company specializing in single-family and commercial properties, with offices in Winter Haven, Auburndale, and Haines City. Their mission statement reads in part, “Our strength is generated from our commitment to our clients, our investors, our people, our industry, and our community. We are fair, courteous, honest, and professional. We are sensitive to our clients’ needs and dedicated to their satisfaction.” 2nd: Keller Williams Realty Smart 1 3rd: Webb’s Realty BEST MORTGAGE BROKER HOME SOLUTION LENDERS, INC. 1445 E Main St, Bartow (863) 607-4663 FB @homesolutionlenders IG @hslenders hslenders.com Home sweet Home Solution Lenders! This Bartow-based company prides themselves on exceeding client expectations by closing loans promptly and efficiently. Founded in 2008, HSL serves the entire state of Florida and specializes in FHA, USDA, VA, Conventional, Construction, Florida Bond Programs, and Refinancing. They make the application process simple with options to apply securely online, over the phone, or in person. One client writes in part, “For anyone looking to work with true proven professionals that know exactly what they are doing based on experience and ethics, then I would recommend Home Solution Lenders. [...]” 2nd: Lori DeWitt | Movement Mortgage 3rd: Carlos Unzueta | Lifetime Mortgage Lending BEST AC REPAIR RIDGE ENERGY SAVERS 135 S Acuff Rd, Lake Wales (863) 676-2665 FB @RidgeEnergySavers ridgeenergy.com Congrats to the coolest AC repair company around! Ridge Energy Savers, a second-generation family-owned and operated company, backs their residential and commercial HVAC services with 48 years of stand-out service. The NATE-certified team at Ridge Energy Savers is qualified as a Carrier Factory Authorized Dealer, ensuring proper HVAC design, installation, repair, and maintenance. Their extensive service menu includes heating, cooling, air quality, duct services, commercial refrigeration, and sheet metal fabrication. 2nd: Winter Haven Air Conditioning, Inc. 3rd: Refrigeration & Electric Service, Inc. BEST ELECTRICIAN KINCAID ELECTRICAL SERVICES 56 W. Central Ave, Lake Wales (863) 676-0198 FB @kincaidelectric kincaidelectric.com Say watt?! Clients of Kincaid Electrical Services won’t be shocked to hear they won Best Electrician again this year. This family-owned and operated business was founded in 1973 by Alan Kincaid. Operating under a Master Florida Electrical License, most of Kincaid’s electricians have been with them for over twenty years. One five-star Kincaid review reads, “I needed my tankless water heater hooked up after replacing. I called and Chris Kincaid came out later that day. He walked me through all options and solutions and saved me quite a bit of money. I greatly appreciated the honesty and knowledge Chris showed. They did the repairs within a couple of hours and [were] very reasonably priced. I will definitely use them again!” 2nd: Cassady Electric, Inc. 3rd: Top Flight Electric BEST PLUMBING CO. CYPRESS PLUMBING INC. 1776 Executive Rd, Winter Haven (863) 294-7319 FB: Cypress Plumbing Inc. cypressplumbingincwinterhaven.com We were totally ‘drained’ after counting the number of votes for Cypress Plumbing! This repeat Best Of Haven winner has served Polk County for nearly 40 years, offering drain cleaning, plumbing installation, plumbing repairs, water heaters, and backflow testing. They can fix a leaky faucet or mystery clog any time of day or night with their 24-hour emergency service. Cypress Plumbing also has warranties available and offers senior discounts. Noting their professionalism, punctuality, quality, value, and responsiveness in a five-star review, one customer called them the “Best plumber I’ve used in this area in over 20 years.” 2nd: Sun State Plumbing 3rd: Daughtry Plumbing BEST ROOFING CO. RIG ROOFING 2001 Havendale Blvd NW, Winter Haven (863) 294-4477 FB: RIG Roofing IG @rigroofing rigroofing.com Results. Integrity. Grounded. Your shingle best roofer is at it again! This locally owned, award-winning roofing contractor serves residential and commercial customers across Polk, Hillsborough, Orange, Lake, and Osceola counties. One customer gave them five stars, saying, “We are so happy with our new roof. They had the best price and the best warranty out of all the companies that provided estimates. I am still shocked by how quickly they were able to get everything completed! They did a fantastic job and provided excellent customer service. I would absolutely recommend them for a roof replacement!” 2nd: EZ Roofing Systems 3rd: WCM Construction & Roofing, LLC BEST PATIO SCREENING CO. MID-FLORIDA ALUMINUM & RESCREENS (863) 289-2368 FB @Midfloridaaluminumrescreens Mid-Florida Aluminum & Rescreens is a Licensed and Insured full-service aluminum, vinyl, and screen company specializing in screen rooms, seamless gutter, vinyl siding, soffit fascia, and more. Based out of Polk County and serving all of Central Florida, Mid-Florida Aluminum is a certified dealer for LifeStyle Screens, Mystic Motorized Screens, Genius Retractable, & Rollaround Screens. This allows them to offer more than the standard type of screen enclosure for any home or business. Call or message them for more information and a free quote today! 2nd: Pool Screens R Us 3rd: D.C. Screen & Aluminum BEST TREE TRIMMING CO. DURHAM’S TREE SERVICE (863) 557-9416 FB: Durham’s Tree Service Durham’s Tree Service cut off the competition this year! They offer safe tree removal and free estimates. Services include stump grinding and stump, close-quarter tree, dead tree, and storm debris removal. Durham’s team is fully insured and covered for worker’s compensation, and they use the latest techniques and proven equipment. One client wrote, “Excellent service. On time, reasonable in cost and had the right equipment and manpower to do the job safely. Removed three large Queen Palms next to house and ground out stumps. Also removed several large branches in rear overhanging the house. No damage to property and left property like before work was started. Excellent crew. Will use again without question if need arises.” 2nd: Monkey Business Tree & Crane Service 3rd: The Tree Lady Company BEST LAWN SERVICE OR LANDSCAPING BLACKBURN & SONS LAWN CARE (863) 324-9104 FB: Blackburn & Sons Lawn Care Lawn care you can count on! The grass is greener with Blackburn & Sons Lawn Care. They offer tree and bush removal, gutter cleaning, clean up, moving, and mulch. One customer wrote, “Blackburn & Sons have been amazing to work with! They were able to get me on their schedule in a timely manner. The lawn at our rental property had become a little unruly as we flip between tenants. John took the time and got the yard looking amazing! Already have him scheduled to return in 2 weeks!” 2nd: Viking Lawn Care and Irrigation, LLC 3rd: C-Jones Lawn and Tree BEST DOCK CONSTRUCTION LARRY GOHN MARINE CONSTRUCTION 2215 Ave C NW, Winter Haven (863) 412-0292 FB: Larry Gohn’s Marine Construction larrygohnmarine.com Way to go, Larry, you really docked it out of the park! Backed by 20 years of experience, Larry Gohn Marine Construction designs and constructs custom outdoor living spaces tailored to their client’s needs. They utilize various materials, including No. 1 Grade pressure-treated yellow pine, aluminum, composite decking, plastic and vinyl, and different premium lumbers to withstand the Florida elements. In addition to their unique designs, Larry Gohn stocks the latest available decking products and accessories. 2nd: EMC Docks 3rd: Don B Construction BEST POOL CONSTRUCTION RODEN POOL CONTRACTING 3500 Cypress Gardens Rd, Winter Haven (863) 299-2828 FB: Roden Pool Contracting rodenpools.com Look who’s making a splash in Best Of Haven this year! That backyard oasis could be yours with Roden Pool Contracting. Roden says, “We’ve built our reputation on integrity, quality, and outstanding customer service.” This licensed, bonded, and insured swimming pool and spa builder specializes in pool remodeling and pool resurfacing. Customers laud Roden’s quality and professionalism, with one happy swimmer noting, “Roden Pools did a phenomenal job with our new pool construction. They came with great personal recommendations, and we were not disappointed. Robbie is great, and his employees and contractors all do fantastic work. Would absolutely recommend. They’ll build you a beautiful pool!” 2nd: Mike Dean Pools, Inc. 3rd: Mannix Pools and Grills BEST POOL SERVICE CO. PINCH A PENNY Multiple Locations FB @PinchAPennyPool IG @pinchapennypool pinchapenny.com There’s no reason to dip into your savings when you just want to take a dip in your pool. The cannonball king of the summer goes to Pinch A Penny for the pool service value they provide to Polk County customers. ‘The perfect people for the perfect pool’ offer pool cleaning and maintenance, equipment installation and repair, renovations, acid washing and stain treatment, and leak detection and repair. 2nd: Mannix Pools and Grills 3rd: Pool Works BEST PEST CONTROL COUNTRY BOY PEST CONTROL LLC. 2103 K-Ville Ave, Auburndale (863) 356-1616 FB: Country Boy Pest Control LLC countryboypestcontrol.com Are bugs bugging you at home or work? You need a country boy for that – actually, Country Boy Pest Control. This lawn care and pest control company out of Auburndale provides comprehensive residential and commercial pest control and lawn management services across Polk and Highlands Counties. Country Boy Pest Control started in 1990 and today employs a staff of 15 full-time technicians trained and licensed with the State of Florida to handle any pesky pests. “Country Boy has gone above and beyond to help handle our ant problem. The service is impeccable, I felt safe and comfortable letting them into my home. They stand by what they say and have truly handled our ant problem since day 1. We will never use another company. 10/10 recommend Country Boy pest control!!!” raves one customer. 2nd: Rayburn 3rd: Massey Services Pest Control BEST FENCING CO. WALKER’S FENCE CO 1028 U.S. 92 West, 1008 US-92, Auburndale (863) 967-7748 walkersfence.com No o-fence to the competition, but Walker’s does it better, according to Best Of Haven voters. Since 1985, Walker’s has offered personalized service and friendly experts to discuss your fencing ideas and help you choose the right products for your property and budget. Locally owned and operated, Walker’s Fence Co. offers the best selection of wholesale fencing and free estimates on all new installations. 2nd: Fence Central 3rd: Superior Fence & Rail BEST CONTRACTOR OR CONSTRUCTION CO. ALAN L. ULCH, INC. 343 Ave C SW, Winter Haven (863) 294-7240 FB: Alan L Ulch, Inc. alanulch.com Want to hear a construction joke? Hold on, I’m still working on it. Established in 1971, Alan L. Ulch Inc. entered the commercial market in 1974, building establishments for Burger King, Ponderosa, and Steak & Shake. Today, Alan L. Ulch, Inc. offers commercial, residential and industrial construction, pre-engineered metal buildings, design build services, construction management, industrial maintenance, kitchen and bath design services, remodel and renovation, and historical renovation. 2nd: Whitehead Construction 3rd: WCM Construction & Roofing, LLC BEST RETIREMENT COMMUNITY LAKE ASHTON 4140 Ashton Club Dr, Lake Wales 1(866)-525-3274 FB: Lake Ashton lakeashton.com “Never before has elegance and value been so perfectly defined in a master-planned, active adult community. Lake Ashton sets the standards of excellence in design, construction, amenities, lifestyle, location, security, and affordability for Florida retirement communities.” This premier community is set on over 1,200 acres, including three lakes and nature preserves. Lake Ashton’s vast list of amenities and activities includes a 26,000-square-foot clubhouse, 24-hour manned gatehouses, sauna, movie theater, bowling alley, library, 30,000 square foot health and fitness center, lighted tennis, shuffle and bocce ball courts, life-sized chess, and two 18-hole golf courses – just to name a few. 2nd: Lake Howard Heights 3rd: Four Lakes BEST HOTEL HAMPTON INN WINTER HAVEN 202 Cypress Gardens Boulevard, Winter Haven (863) 299-9251 FB @hamptonbyhilton IG @hamptonbyhilton hilton.com Located just a half-mile from Lake Lulu, Hampton Inn Winter Haven is central to LEGOLAND Florida Resort and 45 minutes away from Orlando International Airport and Tampa International Airport. This hotel has a desirable list of amenities, including connecting rooms, complimentary hot breakfast, free parking, free wifi, non-smoking rooms, a digital key, an outdoor pool, a fitness center, pet-friendly rooms, and a business center. Giving Hampton Inn Winter Haven five stars, one guest writes, “Great hotel stay. The room was clean & organized nicely. The staff were very friendly & accommodating. The complimentary breakfast was plentiful and huge. Very good! The place was quiet despite being pretty booked, which means good sound dampening between rooms. I would stay again.” 2nd: Courtyard by Marriott Winter Haven 3rd: LEGOLAND Resort Hotel BEST APARTMENT COMMUNITY CARLTON ARMS OF WINTER HAVEN 7676 Carlton Arms Blvd, Winter Haven (863) 875-1700 FB: Carlton Arms of Winter Haven carltonarmsofwinterhaven.com Lakefront views, a fitness center, lakeside pools, pet-friendly, 24/7 emergency maintenance – what more could you want in an apartment community? This repeat Best Of Haven winner is located on 122 acres of wooded lakefront property with 23 floor plans to fit residents’ needs. Described as a “resort-style community,” Carlton Arms of Winter Haven apartment features include valet trash removal, high-speed internet access, and private patios/ balconies. Community residents enjoy the luxuries of two lakeside pools, a heated pool, a social lounge, a car care center, and more! 2nd: RainGarden Apartments 3rd: 20 on Second Apartments BEST CLEANING CO. ORCHID CLEANING SERVICE 5820 K-Ville Ave, Winter Haven (863) 324-2000 FB @orchidcleaningservice orchidcleaningservice.com Orchid Cleaning Service is mopping the floor with their competition! Could your home or office use a one-time deep clean or maybe a regular refresh? Orchid Cleaning Service offers residential/ home, construction, commercial, move-in/ out, and vacation home cleaning. Clients often remark on their professionalism, punctuality, quality, and value, with one happy customer reviewing, “I’ve used other cleaning companies, but Orchid is by far the best! Every cleaner I’ve had does a great job and pays close attention to detail. They are also very responsive.” 2nd: Inspection Ready Enterprises 3rd: Whittaker’s Cleaning BEST STORAGE FACILITY THE EXTRA CLOSET 231 5th St SW, Winter Haven (863) 877-1876 FB @ExtraCloset winterhavenflstorage.com Saddled down with too much stuff? Get an Extra Closet! Secure and centrally located, The Extra Closet is a Best Of Haven voter favorite year after year. They offer short- and long-term storage with affordable prices for climate-controlled units, vehicle, boat, and RV storage. They even provide portable storage solutions which allow customers to pack a unit that the Extra Closet drops off wherever you are. Then, they’ll pick it up and store it at their facility. Extra Closet clients rave about their cleanliness, reasonable prices, and customer service. 2nd: A+ Storage 3rd: Century Storage

  • LKLD Best of 2023- Arts & Entertainment

    BEST PARK BONNET SPRINGS PARK 400 Bonnet Springs Boulevard, Lakeland (863) 732-7000 FB: Bonnet Springs Park IG @bonnetspringspark bonnetspringspark.com Bonnet Springs Park rests on 168 acres of repurposed land near downtown that once helped Lakeland thrive. “Bonnet Springs Park is a place within walking distance to our city’s urban core where art, recreation, fun, and tranquility intersect by design. This blended urban/natural park provides spaces to escape, engage, and explore with one another and with nature while experiencing and learning about the extraordinary history of Central Florida.” The park features a Welcome Center with a gift shop, history gallery, and coffee shop, Heritage Gardens, the Florida Children’s Museum, the Depot Cafe, a family lawn, playground, botanical gardens, butterfly house, nature center, tree house, canopy walk, and more. 2nd: Common Ground Playground 3rd: Barnett Family Park BEST DATE NIGHT THE JOINERY 640 E Main St, Lakeland (863) 808-4025 FB: The Joinery IG @thejoinerylkld thejoinerylkld.com Food, drinks, flowers – everything you need for the perfect date night! The Joinery is a modern food hall and craft brewery on the banks of Lake Mirror. Their selection of vendors suits any craving and can make a date night compromise easy to reach. You get pizza, and I’ll get ramen! Currently filling the food hall are Ato sushi burritos and poke bowls, Ava Neapolitan wood-fired pizza, Gallito Taqueria, Sabu ramen, Blue Dog Craft Barbeque, Super Duper Spot badass burgers, and Mayday Ice Cream. Grab a craft cocktail at the bar and a funky fresh bloom from Bloom Shakalaka for your sweetheart on the way out! 2nd: Silver Moon Drive-In Theatre 3rd: Rec Room BEST GOLF COURSE CLEVELAND HEIGHTS GOLF COURSE 2900 Buckingham Ave, Lakeland (863) 834-2377 FB: The Heights At The Cleveland Heights Golf Course clevelandheightsgolf.com Hole in one for Cleveland Heights Golf Course! This 27-hole municipal facility is open to the public and boasts a full-service Pro Shop, golf instruction, practice areas, and a restaurant. They also have a full driving range with small, medium, or large buckets available for purchase. Green fees vary according to the season, but annual memberships are available. After playing a few rounds, stop in for some chicken wings or shepherd’s pie at 1916 Irish Pub located at Cleveland Heights Golf Course. 2nd: Lone Palm Golf Club 3rd: The Club at Eaglebrooke BEST DANCE STUDIO ULTIMATE DANCE CENTER 2980 Lakeland Highlands Rd, Lakeland (863) 333-0567 FB: Ultimate Dance Center IG @udclakeland udclakeland.com Ultimate Dance Center (UDC) is Polk County’s elite dance center. They offer dance education for all ages and all levels. Offering a variety of dance styles, students can learn in their state-of-the-art dance studio in the heart of Lakeland. The classes at UDC deliver a dance experience with staff and instructors emphasizing technique. “There are opportunities for those dancers who want to be professional dancers to perfect their current skills and acquire new ones,” says UDC. They offer homeschool, special needs, and toddler options too! Ultimate Dance Center has a World Dance Championship nationally ranked competition dance team and in-house non-profit contemporary dance company called FrediDance Project. One parent writes, “Quite the brilliant school for my kid. Talent, inclusivity, diversity, and a true sense of belonging. Lucky to have found them in town.” 2nd: Tammy’s Dance Company 3rd: Just Dance Academy of Dance & Etiquette BEST LIVE MUSIC VENUE UNION HALL 1023 Florida Ave S, Lakeland (863) 288-0372 FB @unionhallevents IG @unionhallevents unionhallevents.com Union Hall is an intimate Dixieland listening room with lofty ceilings, exposed terracotta brick from the 1920s, art deco accents, and concrete bar tops. Grab a cocktail at the bar and enjoy the show or book the space in advance for a private event. One Union Hall patron wrote, “The perfect place in Lakeland for Private events and live music! They also have Karaoke on Wednesday nights. The outdoor patio is perfect for hanging out and eating. The staff here is amazing.” Check out their website to see what bands are coming to Union Hall next. 2nd: Swan Brewing 3rd: The Yard On Mass BEST ANNUAL COMMUNITY EVENT MAYFAIRE BY-THE-LAKE mayfairebythelake.org Established in 1971 as a small crafts fair on the lawn of the Lakeland Public Library, Mayfaire by-the-Lake has become one of Florida’s largest and most celebrated annual outdoor art festivals. It is presented on Mother’s Day weekend every year and features more than 150 artist booths on the shores of Lake Morton. Artist tents feature jewelers, clay artists, painters, and photographers displaying their creations. One of the oldest arts festivals in Central Florida, Mayfaire has been ranked among Sunshine Artist Magazine’s “200 Best Art Shows” for ten years in a row. 2nd: (TIE) Lakeland Christmas Parade 2nd: (TIE) Pride in the Park 3rd: Art Crawl BEST MUSEUM POLK MUSEUM OF ART AT FLORIDA SOUTHERN COLLEGE 800 E Palmetto St, Lakeland (863) 688-7743 FB: Polk Museum of Art IG @polkmuseumofart polkmuseumofart.org Some 140,000 visitors come to the Polk Museum of Art annually. Admission to the Museum is free and exhibits typically change every few months. PMA patrons can enjoy their diverse collection of more than 2,800 objects with a focus on collecting and exhibiting contemporary art, Asian art, Pre-Columbian art, African art, and decorative art. Some exhibitions are from their collection, but many are from local, nationally, and internationally known artists such as Pablo Picasso, Albert Paley, Miriam Schapiro, Donald Sultan, James Rosenquist, Andy Warhol, and many others. In 2022, the Museum announced plans for a $6 million expansion and renovation project slated for completion in the summer of 2024. 2nd: Florida Children’s Museum 3rd: Polk County History Center BEST MURAL LET’S RIDE BY GILLIAN FAZIO 1066 S Florida Ave, Lakeland (located at Bent’s Schwinn Cycling & Fitness) FB: Gillian Fazio Art IG @gfazioart gfazioart.com This vibrant mural depicts a penny farthing bicycle with colorful foliage, flowers, and a butterfly bursting through the spokes, preceded by floral encased letters reading Let’s Ride. Fazio’s talent can be seen in other colorful, nature-inspired pieces around Polk County, like the CREATE mural at Catapult or the oranges and butterflies in Slice of Happiness in Lake Wales. A Lakeland native, Fazio graduated Magna Cum Laude with a bachelor’s degree in fine arts from the University of Florida in 2017. Fazio has painted over 20 murals across Central Florida from Tampa to Anna Maria Island and specializes in “murals that are interactive, engaging, colorful & uplifting, used for countless photoshoots and beautification across the country.” 2nd: CREATE at Catapult by Gillian Fazio 3rd: Angel Wing Selfie Wall by Aaron M. Corbitt BEST VISUAL ARTIST BUMP GALLETTA FB: Bump Galletta IG @bumpgalletta bumpgalletta.com Bump just can’t be beat! A repeat Best Visual Artist winner, Josh “Bump” Galletta is a Lakeland-based commercial artist and illustrator. “I specialize in creating dynamic designs with an organic feel,” says Galletta. “I don’t wear a suit and tie to work; I roll up my sleeves and get down with paper.” His cool black and white style can be seen on t-shirts and living room walls across Polk County (and beyond). In November 2020, Galletta and Ida Mundell released their Swan City picture book, “Goodnight Lakeland.” In addition to his personal work and commissions, Bump has created for brands like Starbucks, Swan Brewing, Top Buttons, Haus 820, Smoothie King, and many more. 2nd: Sara Savannah Jones 3rd: Scott Audette BEST BAND THESE TIMES Spotify @thesetimes FB: These Times IG @thesetimesfl These Times is a Florida heavy-hearted pop punk band formed in 2015. Current members include Skully Scott on vocals, Kurt Montroy on rhythm guitar/ backing vocals, Chris Olivares on drums/ vocals, Josh Hannah on bass/ backing vocals, and Evan Dyer on lead guitar/ backing vocals. Check out their easycore music on Spotify and follow their social media to see where they’ll play next! 2nd: Smokepoint 3rd: Gary Love and the Moonlighters BEST DRAG QUEEN MOMMA ASHLEY ROSE FB: Rose Dynasty Foundation Inc. IG @rosedynastyfoundation rosedynastyfoundationinc.org Congrats to one of our favorite queens! Momma Ashley Rose is a fabulous and philanthropic drag performer spreading the message that all are “loved, accepted, and wanted.” Along with her husband, Scott DeShazo, Momma Ashley Rose founded the Rose Dynasty Foundation, which has helped to raise thousands of dollars for charities, community outreaches, and non-profits through drag, dinner, brunch, children’s events, and variety shows. Momma’s mission is to “provide a safe and family-friendly atmosphere for all people no matter their gender, race, sexual orientation, and/or religion, through mentoring, fundraising, fostering community, and promoting awareness of resources.” 2nd: Kathryn Nevets 3rd: Marina Maroney BEST LOCAL MAKER MAMACITA LIFESTYLE CO. IG @mamacita.lifestyleco This Latina and mama-owned Central Florida pop-clothing boutique makes super cute ‘Spanglish’ tees. The Mamacita herself, Jessica Ferguson, told LKLDlense that when she started her brand, she wanted it to be “fun, bold, and rich in Latin pride/culture.” Her on-trend bright tees don phrases like “Barbicita,” “Necesito Cafecito,” and “Muy Festive” for the holidays. She told LKLDlense, “The name itself has everything to do with who I am as a Latina mama who is wholeheartedly so proud of her motherhood journey and beautiful Latin heritage. I believe the combination of all these factors is what sets the brand apart.” 2nd: Swan City Ceramics 3rd: Jaime Jay Handmade BEST HIDDEN GEM IN POLK COUNTY ART CENTRIC STUDIO 1035 Florida Ave S #180, Lakeland (407) 489-0179 FB: Art Centric Studio IG @artcentricstudio artcentricstudio.com Art Centric is a cozy art studio in the heart of Dixieland. ACSI-certified art teacher Mrs. Becky started this hidden gem in 2015. The space is a studio for children of all ages in Lakeland, providing authentic opportunities to make and create. Art Centric boasts a stunning studio space with plenty of natural light and large open tables. “Through the step-by-step process of exploring materials, building skills, making mistakes, and creating solutions, you and your child will be taught to work and think like an artist.” Art Centric offers a variety of classes for all ages, homeschool classes, After School ArT, and KiDz NiGhT OuT. The owner “loves art in all its forms and has a growing passion to share it with others. She is excited to encourage creativity at Art Centric Studio and looks forward to seeing you soon!” 2nd: Rose Dynasty Foundation Fundraising Events 3rd: Quinteassence Kava Bar

  • Haven Best of 2023 - Pro Services

    BEST FLORIST LASATER FLOWERS 254 W Central Ave Ste A, Winter Haven (863) 294-3213 FB @lasaterflowers IG @lasaterflowers lasaterflowers.net Lasater, if you were a flower, we’d pick you! “Want to make a great impression? We can arrange that!” This flower power boutique floral design studio, established in 1958, offers arrangements for every occasion with a freshness guarantee. Lasater Flowers also extends gift sets, seasonal blooms, and subscriptions with personalized plans to fit your style, budget, and delivery frequency. A Lasater Flowers customer raved, “Lasater Flowers has yet again exceeded my expectations. I know I can always count on them to create the most beautiful arrangements. I know I can always put my full trust in letting them create a one-of-a-kind arrangement and this last one is no exception. I will always order from them and will always recommend anyone else too.” 2nd: Golden Petal Designs 3rd: Pretty Odd Flower Cart BEST WEDDING VENUE VENUE 650 650 6th St SW, Winter Haven (863) 287-3814 FB @venue650 IG @venue650 venue650.com Industrial and elegant, Venue 650 is Winter Haven’s premier wedding venue and a Best Of Haven voter favorite. Its lofty ceilings, sprawling windows, and adjoining open-sky courtyard visually lend even more space to the building’s 10,500 square feet. The versatile event venue, with exposed brick walls and concrete floor, can see any event vision realized and comfortably accommodate up to 400 guests. Additional Venue 650 features include high-speed internet, ample well-lit parking, a catering kitchen, and dressing suites. One Venue 650 testimonial reads, “I had my wedding here in March 2023. It was truly the best day ever. The staff at Venue 650 were always very responsive to emails and questions, friendly on the tour, and did wonders on the day of! I provided a floor plan and they had set up the room exactly how I envisioned. They even left us a gift in the bridal suite!” 2nd: Adams Estate 3rd: Bok Tower Gardens BEST PROFESSIONAL PHOTOGRAPHER MIKE POTTHAST POTTHAST STUDIOS 234 W Central Ave, Winter Haven (863) 294-4920 FB: Potthast Studios IG @potthaststudios potthaststudios.com Mike Potthast and his team offer professional photography services, including portraits, commercial photography, video production, photo restorations, digitizing services, passport photos, and photography classes in his spacious Central Avenue studio. According to Potthast Studios, “Putting together a great photo shoot is about much more than just lights, camera, action. We understand it takes coordination, communication, talented design, and styling before the shoot, and talent behind the camera, to make it all come together.” One five-star review confirms their commitment to exceptional photography: “Mike is an awesome, talented photographer. He has taken my last 4 professional headshots, and all have been great. I highly recommend Mike for all your photography needs.” 2nd: Gonzalez Lugo Photography, LLC 3rd: April Spaulding Photography BEST EVENT ENTERTAINMENT NEXT LEVEL ENTERTAINMENT LLC 770 Ave B SW, Winter Haven (727) 614-3652 FB @nextlevelent1djs wedding-and-events-by-dj-melvin.business.site This DJ service will have everybody on the dance floor at your upcoming wedding, birthday, or corporate party. They can take your party to the next level with a photo booth, lighting, and special effects. DJ Melvin’s clients continually sing his praises, like this five-star review reading, “We had our daughters quince this past Saturday. Melvin helped us so much in keeping order and structure with ceremonies and his introductions were very special. Melvin took time to make sure that all my requests were discussed and secured before the party. He helped to move through any schedule issues we had and fix them. Thank you Next Level Entertainment for making our girl’s special day spectacular!” 2nd: Triviosity Live Events 3rd: Dream Chaser Events FUNERAL SERVICES OAK RIDGE FUNERAL CARE 2425 Havendale Blvd NW, Winter Haven (863) 216-2669 1001 E Grace Ave, Haines City (863) 215-6929 FB: Oak Ridge Funeral Care oakridgefuneralcare.com Oak Ridge Funeral Care has served the Haines City and Winter Haven communities since 1933. Ninety years later, they continue to provide professional and compassionate care to families. Services include life celebrations, burial services, cremation, veteran services, shipping, and pre-planning. Oak Ridge Funeral Care offers tailored services to accommodate your preference. “A meaningful and beautiful service is a powerful experience that celebrates your loved one’s life while serving as an important step in the grieving process. When it comes to planning, you can trust us to respect your wishes and design a service that feels special.” 2nd: Marion Nelson Funeral Home & Crematory 3rd: Kersey Funeral Home BEST DRY CLEANER TOP HAT CLEANERS LAUNDRY CENTER 150 2nd St NW Winter Haven (863) 293-2627 A tip of the hat to Top Hat Cleaners for another year atop the Best Dry Cleaner category! This top tier dry cleaner owned and operated by Michelle Womble offers over 20 years of clean laundry backing up their good reputation. With convenient locations and eco-friendly GreenEarth technology, what’s not to love? According to Top Hat Cleaners, “Our friendly staff takes particular care with each and every order and proudly provides customers with professional workmanship.” 2nd: Dry Clean America 3rd: Executive Dry Cleaners BEST AUTO REPAIR STEWART AUTO REPAIR 1990 42nd St NW, Winter Haven (863) 965-2526 FB @stewartautorepair IG @stewartautorepair stewartautorepair.com Phantom squeak in your car? Check engine light haunting you? Who you gonna call? Stewart Auto! Since 1998 Stewart Auto Repair has been servicing a wide range of makes and models for their Central Florida customers. Their skilled service technicians use quality parts to repair collision and auto body damage and back up their work with warranty. Stewart even invests in the latest auto repair tools and diagnostic software specifically tailored to your vehicle’s software. One customer wrote, “They got me in same day on short notice, figured out my problem, fixed it, and had me out in no time! They kept me updated with what was going on as well. All the staff are super nice! Also another plus, they have a play area with toys for kids! Was a huge help with my little one, she played the whole time! Highly recommend!!” 2nd: Johnny’s Auto 3rd: Tuffy Tires BEST AUTO DEALER LOW PAYMENT KINGS Locations in Winter Haven, Lake Wales, Davenport FB: Low Payment Kings IG: lowpaymentking low-payment-kings.com The Low Payment Kings reign supreme in this year’s Best Auto Dealer category! Since 1966, their mission has been to exceed expectations with excellent customer service, the best products and services, and to save customers money on all their automotive needs. The Low Payment Kings help drivers find the vehicle of their dreams across their seven convenient locations. One Dodge Chrysler Jeep Ram of Winter Haven customer writes in part, “Absolutely great service every time I lease or purchase a car there. From my salesman, management and finance start to finish was fantastic! I’m on my third car from there and I don’t plan on leaving. [...]” 2nd: Huston Cadillac Buick GMC 3rd: Hill Nissan BEST CAR WASH MISTER CAR WASH Multiple Locations FB: Mister Car Wash IG @mistercarwashhq mistercarwash.com Mister Car Wash – “Inspiring people to shine!” Since opening their first Houston, Texas location in 1969, Mister Car Wash has become a premier car wash company, committed to offering customers a clean, dry, shiny car every time using their patented Unity Chemistry system. Whether you’re looking for a single wash or to become a member of the Ultimate Wash Club, Mister Car Wash’s team members are committed to a quality experience. One Mister Car Wash Cypress Gardens location customer wrote, “Great car wash, staff are friendly and they pay attention to detail. They even have free vacuums.” 2nd: Pat’s Car Wash 3rd: Radiant Express Car Wash BEST RV DEALER CAMPING WORLD 7400 E State Rd 60, Bartow (866) 906-9517 FB: Camping World IG @campingworld rv.campingworld.com/dealer/tampa-florida-bartow Camping World is the nation’s largest retailer of RVs, RV accessories, and RV-related services, with over 185 Camping World SuperCenters nationwide. Not only do they offer a full-service call center, but their comprehensive website also features thousands of quality products for RVs, camping, towing, and outdoor living. One Bartow Camping World customer raved, “Super experience in all respects! Staff is friendly, knowledgeable & ready to serve your needs. I purchased a new premium camper & the selection process was facilitated by Rhonda, a great sales associate. Took delivery today and am looking forward to my first expedition!” 2nd: Ridge Quality Motors 3rd: Winter Haven RV BEST RV PARK CAMP MARGARITAVILLE AUBURNDALE 361 Denton Ave, Auburndale (863) 455-7335 FB: Camp Margaritaville Auburndale IG @campmargaritavilleauburndale margaritavilleresorts.com/camp-margaritaville-rv-re-sort-auburndale Chill at Camp Margaritaville! This Auburndale luxury RV resort offers 326 RV sites, including 11 Super Premium RV Sites, along with 75 Cabana Cabins. Guests can enjoy a tiki bar, fire pits, resort pool, entertainment stage, playground, dog parks, and putting course, or plan a day with the crew hiking, biking, or sightseeing. One happy camper noted, “First time stay and will definitely come back! The resort is very clean and organized. The staff is friendly, helpful and FUN! There are plenty of activities all day long for kids and adults! Our boys loved Gaga ball! Our adult group loved the License to Chill bar and Name That Tune! Our dogs loved the dog park!! Thank you for a great ending to our summer!!” 2nd: Southern Pines Resort 3rd: Cypress Campground & RV Park BEST POWERSPORTS DEALER MCKIBBEN POWERSPORTS LAKE WALES 20769 US Hwy 27, Lake Wales (863) 676-2245 FB: McKibben Powersports of Lake Wales IG @mckibben_ps_lw mckibbenpowersportslakewales.com Pssst. Want a jetski? I know a guy. This Lake Wales powersports dealer offers a diverse range of powersports vehicles, including ATVs, personal watercraft, scooters, UTVs, and more. Their authorized dealer status for many top brands means McKibben customers can be confident in the product quality they offer. “For over 30 years, we’ve been the trusted source for powersports enthusiasts in Central Florida, and we’re proud of the reputation we’ve built,” notes McKibben Powersports. Stop by their sprawling showroom to check out a selection of powersports vehicles, OEM parts, and accessories. Plus, McKibben’s service department is staffed by certified technicians who are trained to handle all aspects of vehicle maintenance and repair. 2nd: Sky Powersports 3rd: Cyclemycle’s Motorcycle Shop BEST OIL CHANGE TAKE 5 OIL CHANGE 1530 1st St S, Winter Haven (863) 658-6075 FB @Take5OilChange IG @take5oilchange take5oilchange.com Take 5 Oil Change, home of “the quickest oil change in Winter Haven,” offers a drive-thru 10-minute oil change service with no appointment necessary. Just pick your oil from the technicians’ options, sit back, and relax while expert technicians change your oil and filter, replenish under-hood fluids, and check your air filter and wiper blades. One customer’s five-star review reads in part, “The perfect oil change from the comfort of your car. I really enjoyed the experience and the efficiency and professionalism of a clearly well-tuned process.” 2nd: Tuffy Tire & Auto Service Center 3rd: Johnny’s Automotive FINANCIAL ADVISOR AUSTIN THARP AVENTAIL WEALTH MANAGEMENT 353 Ave C SW, Winter Haven (863) 333-1927 FB: Aventail Wealth Management, LLC aventailwm.com Making money moves? Austin Tharp is your guy. Tharp is Vice President & Investment Adviser Representative for Aventail Wealth Management. He joined the firm in 2016 and prides himself “in always giving his clients the highest level of service in a very personal way.” Tharp is heavily involved in his community, serving on nonprofit boards, including Main Street Winter Haven and The Historic Ritz Theatre. One client wrote of Tharp, “Austin is an absolute pleasure to deal with, very responsive and is always happy to discuss questions or concerns.” 2nd: Michael Maddox | Primerica 3rd: Ryan Conley | Edward Jones BEST CPA CONNER & ASSOCIATES LLC 20 3rd St SW Suite 306, Winter Haven (863) 268-4374 FB: Conner & Associates LLC IG @connerandassociatesllc conner-cpa.com Serving Winter Haven and the surrounding areas, Conner & Associates LLC offers personable tax, accounting, payroll, and business consulting services. The accounting firm’s mission is “to ease the burden of entrepreneurship on small business owners.” Conner & Associates are committed to providing timely, reliable tax and accounting services for their client’s personal and business needs. One client wrote, “Prompt, professional service. Positive experience from my initial inquiry phone call to the office. Windy was informative and efficient and Josh eased our concerns regarding a stressful tax situation. Highly recommend Connor & Associates!” 2nd: Wiggins, Smit, Burby, Reineke & CO P.A. 3rd: Campbell & Associates BEST ATTORNEY SOUTHERN ATLANTIC LAW GROUP, PLLC 520 6th St NW, Winter Haven (863) 656-6672 FB @WinterHavenbusinesslaw IG @southernatlanlawgroup southernatlanticlaw.com The Southern Atlantic Law Group is a statewide civil litigation and appellate firm whose attorneys have extensive litigation experience in state and federal courts. This Winter Haven-based law firm prides itself on providing client-focused representation and positive results. Their practice areas include appellate law, business litigations, class action, contract disputes, corporate/ general counsel, hurricane damage, insurance claims, and personal injury. One five-star review reads in part, “Outstanding team, results-oriented professionals, proactive communication, highly intelligent, nonstop attention and strategic decisions to best represent our case. [...]” 2nd: The Law Offices of Carter J. Adams 3rd: Mark Turner | Straughn & Turner, P.A. BEST BANK MIDFLORIDA CREDIT UNION Multiple Locations FB @MIDFLORIDA IG @midflorida_creditunion midflorida.com MIDFLORIDA, a repeat Best Of Haven winner for Best Bank, is not-for-profit and member-owned, offering banking products and services from personal and business banking to loans, mortgages, and investing. It began in 1954 as Polk County Teachers Credit Union and now has nearly 65 branches as Central Florida’s community credit union. MIDFLORIDA places importance on personal attention and competitive rates. “At MIDFLORIDA Credit Union, we strive to provide our members with the tools and resources they need to make informed financial decisions and achieve their financial goals. We are dedicated to helping our members build a secure financial future and to creating a more financially stable community.” 2nd: Citizens Bank & Trust 3rd: SouthState Bank BEST INSURANCE AGENT ERIK SEALY | SEALY INSURANCE 3395 Cypress Gardens Rd, Winter Haven (863) 324-3100 FB: Sealy Insurance Serving the Winter Haven community for almost 20 years, Erik Sealy is an independent insurance agent representing over 30 home companies, 13 auto carriers, as well as commercial and financial markets to serve his clients. Whether you need home, life, auto, or business coverage, Best Of Haven voters agree you should seal the deal with Erik Sealy. One client wrote, “Erik Sealy is so knowledgeable when it comes to any and everything insurance related. He is very well experienced with this industry and will help with all your insurance needs, even if just for advice. He is your go to!” 2nd: Zinsmeister Insurance 3rd: Barfield Insurance & Financial Services BEST PRINT OR SIGN SHOP ASAP PRINTS 1606 Havendale Blvd NW, Winter Haven (863) 291-6807 FB: ASAP Prints IG @asapprints asapprints.com When you need a print job done right and ASAP, choose ASAP Prints! “Our passion is coming up with unique printing solutions for each individual client. We utilize creative design, innovative solutions and custom fabrication every time.” Services include paper printing, wall art and signs, and specialty products, including sunglasses, mugs, promo flags, and more. An excerpt from one client testimonial reads, “ASAP has been a trusted printing partner for Safety Products Inc since they opened their doors. We receive personal attention, immediate response, expert advice and quality finished products. Everyone at ASAP goes above and beyond what is expected and over time we have formed a trusted relationship that cannot be broken. [...]” 2nd: RayGraphics 3rd: Stacy’s Printing BEST DAYCARE PARKLAND PRESCHOOL 1800 8th St SE, Winter Haven 863-293-1207 FB: Parkland Baptist Church parkland-baptist-church.websrvcs.com/parkland-preschool Who do you trust your tots with? Best Of Haven voters rave about Parkland Preschool at Parkland Baptist Church. Parkland serves ages twelve months to four years old. They also offer an after-school program for K-4th grade serving Brigham Academy, Garden Grove Elementary, Chain of Lakes Elementary, and Jewett School of the Arts. Parkland notes, “The school teaches biblical truths and spiritual values. The purpose of our program is to extend the ministry of Parkland Baptist Church providing the best possible care and education for children.” 2nd: Dreamers Bilingual Academy 3rd: Winter Haven Montessori BEST SPA SPA HAVEN 634 1st St S, Winter Haven (863) 514-0667 FB: SPA HAVEN IG @spahaven634 spa-haven.com Spa Haven is the respite you need to “Rejuvenate. Revitalize. Restore.” Owner, Esthetician, Nail Technician, and Lash Artist Megan Gillis notes, “We strive to make every experience the best it can be and want you to walk out of here feeling confident.” This Winter Haven oasis offers facials, manicures, lash extensions, waxing, and tint and lash lift services. One beautified client writes in part, “I must say, Spa Haven should be named Spa Heaven. Because that is where my tech took me too! I was so comfortable and relaxed. I Highly Recommend coming here!! This was my first facial ever! And I will be returning. [...]” 2nd: Massage and Spinal Therapy of Winter Haven, Inc. 3rd: SPAscape BEST MEDICAL SPA ETERNAL YOUTH AESTHETICS 400 Ave K SE Suite 1, Winter Haven (239) 383-7625 FB: Eternal Youth Aesthetics, LLC IG @eternalyouthaestheticsllc eternalyouthaesthetic.com Superior service, superior results. Eternal Youth Aesthetics Owner Jodi DeVries, Certified Cosmetic Injector, MS, APRN, CRNA, says, “I want you to look and feel younger, refreshed, and more confident. I want everyone to notice, but no one to know!” This med spa offers cosmetic injections, iS Clinical Skincare, and facial and body treatments, with clients raving things like, “Love this place! Get all your needs taken care of at one location. The staff is absolutely wonderful, and I can’t say enough about their customer service and response to any questions you might have via text, email, or a phone call.” 2nd: Massage and Spinal Therapy of Winter Haven, Inc. 3rd: Salt Room Winter Haven BEST HAIR SALON SPECTRUM STUDIO 219 3rd St SW, Winter Haven (863) 307-7500 IG @spectrumstudio In business for 20 years, Spectrum Studio is an iconic Winter Haven salon next to the “Lady on the Wall” mural. The studio offers an array of services, including hair design, nail and facial services, massage, and brow waxing. All services are by appointment only. Spectrum recently partnered with 7 Anchors, a modern boutique offering men’s and women’s casual wear and surf-style apparel. Fused with the white studio walls, a special art collection is permanently displayed by world-renowned artist Kenneth Treister from Miami. “Rainbow in the Clouds,” a large installation made up of 19 painted panels that blend the entire spectrum, greets guests immediately upon entry, starting a visit to the studio with an uplifting, positive and feel-good energy. 2nd: The U Salon 3rd: Posh Salon and Day Spa BEST BARBER BEST CUTS BARBER SHOP 213 Ave O SW, Winter Haven (863) 293-9433 FB @BestCutsWinterHaven IG @bestcutswinterhaven bestcutswinterhaven.com “Where the latest styles meet tradition. Our Barbers utilize techniques that have stood the test of time to create the Best Cuts around.” The team at Best Cuts Barber Shop offers services for men, women, and kids, including haircuts, beard trims, washes, hot towel shaves, and massages. One client writes, “Definitely recommend Best Cuts Barber Shop. Been going for several years now and have never been disappointed. Always friendly with great conversations. Great quality and great prices. You should check them out the next time you need a haircut.” 2nd: The Barber Bros. Hairstyling 3rd: The B Shop BEST NAIL SALON OASIS SPA AND NAILS 5535 Cypress Gardens Blvd #140, Winter Haven (863) 875-8869 FB: Oasis Spa & Nails IG @oasis.spa.nails oasisspanails.com Are you thinking of doing a powder pink or maybe a glitzy gold? Go to Oasis – they’ll nail it! Services include a full menu of manicures (including gel), pedicures, acrylic, and even kid services so you can have a spa day with your mini-me! According to Oasis, “Our priority is to make our clients feel pampered and relaxed while getting beautified here at our salon. We will maintain our progressiveness and edginess by creating the latest trends and offering an unforgettable experience throughout your stay with us. You belong here, you belong in luxury, you deserve pampering and excellence.” While you’re there, check out their facial, waxing, and eyelash extension services! 2nd: Spa Haven 3rd: Lucky Nails and Spa BEST TATTOO STUDIO ACES INK 838 6th St NW, Winter Haven (863) 875-3798 FB @acesinktattoo IG @acesinktattoo This repeat Best Of Haven tattoo studio winner must have a few aces up their sleeve! The shop’s mission is “to provide you with quality tattoos/ piercings in an amazing and sterile environment.” Aces Ink has a portfolio of clean, cool, creative tattoos – and numerous five-star ratings to back it up. The following excerpt is only one of hundreds of glowing reviews for the shop. “Absolutely love Aces Ink! All the artists’ work is phenomenal and they are all very friendly and welcoming. The atmosphere in the shop is comfortable as well. [...]” 2nd: Skinfinity Tattoo Company 3rd: Angry Elephant

  • Haven Best of 2023 - Health + Wellness

    BEST GYM OR FITNESS STUDIO JUST MOVE WINTER HAVEN 5636 Cypress Gardens Blvd, Winter Haven (863) 291-4653 FB @JustMoveWH IG @justmovewh justmovewinterhaven.com JUST MOVE HAVENDALE 1164 Havendale Blvd NW, Winter Haven (863) 294-4653 FB @JustMoveHD IG @justmovehd justmovehavendale.com Love handles have a little too much love lately? Don’t sweat it – Just Move! With their premier facilities and programming, Just Move can help you achieve your individual health and wellness goals. According to the gym, “The beauty of Just Move is that it embraces the idea that every person can get one step closer to feeling fit by just moving forward.” Just Move has curated a space that offers custom fitness experiences to its members, from weight machines, cross training, a women’s only area, group classes, and circuit training to boxing, racquetball, basketball, and cable training. 2nd: The Balance Culture 3rd: Habitat Health and Fitness BEST MARTIAL ARTS STUDIO TKO MARTIAL ARTS ACADEMY 6284 Cypress Gardens Blvd, Winter Haven (863) 213-5131 FB: TKO Martial Arts Academy IG @tkomartialartsacademy tkotaekwondoacademy.com It wasn’t even close for the winner of this category – it was a TKO! TKO Taekwondo was founded in 2012 by Grandmaster Hwang, a two-time world Champion, and participant in the 2008 Beijing Olympics. In 2017, they opened their first 3000-square-foot training facility (Dojang) called TKO Martial Arts Academy. “Providing a challenging and motivational introduction to the Korean art of self-defense by one of the world’s most highly sought-after masters and competitors. Grandmaster Hwang’s program was specifically designed by her to build a strong foundation in children that, in addition to physical fitness, develops discipline, honor, self-control, respect, focus, perseverance, confidence, and knowledge.” 2nd: Ro’s Taekwondo 3rd: Carlson Gracie Winter Haven BEST MEDICAL CANNABIS DISPENSARY TRULIEVE 749 3rd St SW, Winter Haven (407) 606-6109 6000 Cypress Gardens Blvd, Winter Haven (863) 208-6370 FB @Trulieve IG @trulieve_ trulieve.com It’s true, and you better believe it, Trulieve has the best medical green. Best Of Haven voters “highly” recommend Trulieve in Winter Haven for their medical cannabis needs. “At Trulieve, we believe in the power of cannabis for all. We take great pride in building community, offering innovative products, and advocating for our industry.” This medical cannabis dispensary offers a curated collection of products, including flower, concentrates, vape carts, edibles, oral, topicals & nebulizers, and accessories. One five-star Winter Haven Trulieve review reads, “They are the best when it comes to customer service. Very knowledgeable and so understanding. Amazing services, amazing products, amazing prices. And so many amazing deals every day.” 2nd: MÜV Dispensary 3rd: Liberty Health Sciences BEST MEDICAL SUPPLY GARRETT’S MEDICAL SUPPLY 485 1st St N, Winter Haven (863) 293-9747 FB @garrettsmedical garrettsmedical.com Garrett’s Medical Supply has been family-owned and operated since 1986, and owner Jeannine Russell brings with her over 30 years of experience in the medical supply industry. The store carries medical supplies, uniforms, and miscellaneous items for medical care at home or in the field, and if they don’t currently have what you’re looking for, they can order it or inform you where to find it. One satisfied customer wrote of Garrett’s Medical Supply, “I have been a customer of Garrett’s Medical Supply for 30 years. The excellent hometown family professionalism has not changed.” 2nd: QualiMed 3rd: Meg’s Medical Scrubs & Boutique BEST WELLNESS STORE HEALTHY HABITS 509 Cypress Gardens Blvd, Winter Haven (863) 875-6551 FB @healthyhabitsblvd IG @healthyhabitsontheboulevard “Change your habits, change your life” that’s the Healthy Habits motto. “It is our belief that implementing positive changes in our daily routines can have a profound effect on our future health and well being.” Whether you have special dietary needs or want to gain a few ‘healthy habits,’ Healthy Habits carries antioxidants, anti-aging products, blood pressure products, digestive enzymes, gluten-free foods, immune support, vitamins, organic hair, skin, beauty products, and much more! 2nd: Your CBD Store | SUNMED 3rd: My Nature’s Delight BEST PLACE OF WORSHIP HEARTLAND CHURCH 225 Avenue B NW, Winter Haven (863) 299-7797 FB: Heartland Church IG @heartlandchurchwh heartchurch.org Heartland Church’s mission is to “Love Jesus, love each other, and love our world.” Led by Pastor Ed Kendrick, the church has grown from 14 people in 2002 to more than 2,500. “His true passion is to see people come to know Jesus Christ as their personal Savior and to grow in their relationship with Him until they themselves are reaching others for Christ.” Over the years, Heartland has grown to include campuses in the Dundee, Auburndale, and Eloise communities that resulted in individual church plant ‘launches’ – becoming RiverHills Fellowship, Connect Church, and Thrive Church. One congregant wrote of Heartland, “Contemporary worship music is great and the pastor is awesome. Can’t ask for more from a community church. Very welcoming and friendly.” 2nd: Haven Worship Center 3rd: Kairos Church BEST FAMILY DOCTOR CELESTINO VEGA, MD Lakeland Regional Health Auburndale 208 Main Street, Auburndale (863) 284-5000 FB @LakelandRegionalHealth IG @lakelandregionalhealth Dr. Celestino Vega has been practicing Family Medicine since 1995 and joined the staff at Lakeland Regional Health, where he currently practices, in 2016. He attended medical school at Univercidad Central del Este, completed his residency at the University of Louisville, and is Board Certified with the American Board of Family Medicine. Working as a Family Medicine Physician in LRH’s Auburndale primary care location, Dr. Vega sees patients ages two years and older. He often works with families, treating multiple generations, which he says is special to him. Dr. Vega loves science and medicine and has a passion for helping others. His patient care philosophy is, “I believe prevention is the key to good health. We want to be proactive and not wait till there’s a problem. I aim to be compassionate and very caring with my patients.” 2nd: Eduardo Torres, MD Bond Clinic 3rd: Raul Alvarez, MD Lakeland Regional Health Winter Haven BEST PEDIATRICIAN JOSEF S. KLEINE, MD Kleine Pediatrics 375 E Central Ave, Winter Haven (863) 656-1111 Many families in Winter Haven and surrounding areas have received generational care from Dr. Josef Kleine. His board-certified care comes highly recommended, with patient parents often describing him as attentive and professional. Dr. Kleine sees patients from birth through adolescence. One parent wrote, “Dr. Kleine is a dedicated, compassionate, experienced professional that I feel goes above and beyond with his services. Both of my kids really enjoy his calming personality and so do I. Thank you Dr. Kleine and thanks to all your supporting staff.” 2nd: Raul Alvarez, MD Lakeland Regional Health Winter Haven 3rd: Heather Sammons Whitworth, MD Nemours Children’s Health BEST EYE SPECIALIST OR OPTOMETRIST FAMILY EYE CARE 410 E Central Ave, Winter Haven (863) 293-0276 FB @DrHenne IG @familyeyecarewh drhenne.com You don’t need 20/20 to see that Family Eye Care is the best! According to Family Eye Care, “Whether it’s a general eye exam or treating a condition that requires an in-depth diagnosis, our team provides undivided attention to each patient so we can evaluate a plan based on your needs and our professional opinion.” One patient writes, “Dr. Henne was wonderful during my visit. I suffer from anxiety and he put me at ease with his calm voice. My 2 kids saw Dr. Beissinger and she was super sweet with them. My kids said they loved the eye doctor and wanna go back again! I highly recommend this place to others nearby.” 2nd: Eye Specialists of Mid Florida 3rd: Salomon Eye Care BEST ORTHOPEDIC DOCTOR LARRY R. PADGETT, MD Advanced Orthopedic Surgery and Sports Medicine 250 3rd St NW #201, Winter Haven (863) 318-9696 larrypadgettmd.com Dr. Larry Padgett is a Board Certified Orthopedic Surgeon practicing in the areas of Arthroscopy and Sports Medicine. This repeat Best Of Haven winner and his team at Advanced Orthopedic Surgery treat athletes playing at the high school, college, and professional levels, as well as recreational athletes from every age group. Dr. Padgett was a Team Physician for the Cleveland Indians from 1998 through 2008 and is currently the Florida Team physician for the Atlanta Braves and Team Physician for Florida Southern College, Webber International University, and Warner University. He previously worked as the physician for the Cypress Gardens Water Ski Team, Assistant Team Physician for the Pittsburgh Steelers, Event Physician for the Women’s World Pro Ski Tour, and was the Major League Physician for the World Baseball Classic in 2006. 2nd: Samuel Messieh, MD Messieh Orthopedic Clinic 3rd: Paul M. Morin, MD Bond Clinic, P.A. BEST OB-GYN LISA JARDINE, MD Gessler Clinic - Women’s Division 450 E Central Ave, Winter Haven (863) 294-0670 FB @GesslerClinic IG @gesslerclinic gesslerclinic.com Dr. Lisa Jardine – at your cervix! Dr. Lisa Jardine practices Obstetrics & Gynecology in Gessler Clinic’s Women’s Division. She obtained her medical degree in Philadelphia from Jefferson Medical College and completed her residency in Obstetrics/ Gynecology at Temple Hospital. Patients laud Dr. Jardine for her thoroughness, knowledgeability, and personability. 2nd: Ashley Lopez, MD Winter Haven Obstetrics and Gynecology 3rd: James J. Booker, MD Winter Haven Obstetrics and Gynecology BEST PLASTIC SURGEON RICHARD RADOCHA, MD Gessler Clinic 635 1st St N, Winter Haven (863) 294-0670 FB @GesslerClinic IG @gesslerclinic gesslerclinic.com Dr. Richard Radocha practices Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery at Gessler Clinic. He obtained his medical degree from Hahnemann Medical College in Philadelphia and completed an internship in surgery and his residency at the University of South Florida. One patient noted a smooth breast augmentation surgery with minimal pain and added, “Anyone looking for a good professional plastic surgeon needs to see Dr. Radocha.” 2nd: Faeza R. Kazmier, MD | Watson Clinic BEST DENTIST OR ORTHODONTIST JAMES A. TRUITT, DMD, PA 144 Avenue B NW, Winter Haven (863) 294-2128 jamesatruittdmd.com Best Of Haven voters trust their pearly whites to Dr. James A. Truitt! Providing dental care for the whole family since 1989, Dr. Truitt and his staff focus on patient relationships and compassionate care. “My experience with Dr. Truitt and his staff has always been positive since I began seeing him years ago. He is very skilled and competent and his office is state of the art. All of the people who are part of the staff, from receptionist to hygienist, are professional, competent and friendly. I would give them all an extremely high efficiency rating!” writes Susan in a patient testimonial. 2nd: Steven G. Wang, DMD, PA KianS Dental Studio 3rd: Jamie W. Odom, DMD, PA BEST CHIROPRACTOR TRUEHEART CHIROPRACTIC 589 Ave K SE, Winter Haven (863) 293-8686 FB: Trueheart Chiropractic trueheartchiropractic.com Back giving you trouble? Let Trueheart take a crack at it! Trueheart Chiropractic offers a clean, comfortable, cutting-edge facility where they treat various conditions, including auto, sports, and personal injuries, as well as subluxations and headaches. One five-star patient review reads in part, “Me and my husband both see Dr. TrueHeart, he knows exactly what needs adjusted and performs professionally. The pain I had for many years in my lower back and hips is gone now. We both feel amazing after each appointment. [...]” 2nd: Newberry Clinic 3rd: Smith Chiropractic BEST HOSPITAL WINTER HAVEN HOSPITAL 200 Ave F NE, Winter Haven (863) 293-1121 FB @WinterHavenHospital IG @baycare baycare.org/whh Founded in 1926, Winter Haven Hospital has an outstanding reputation for superior, patient-centered care. Their mission statement is “to improve the health of the people we serve, by providing the highest quality and most effective care and services – and to return value to the people in our communities.” By upholding this standard of excellence in all they do, they can provide patients throughout central Florida with customized, state-of-the-art treatments in a comfortable environment. 2nd: Lakeland Regional Health 3rd: AdventHealth BEST URGENT CARE BOND CLINIC URGENT CARE 325 1st St N, Winter Haven (863) 293-1191 ext. 3693 FB @BondClinic IG @bondclinic_fl bondclinic.com/urgent-care-emergency-room There’s no need for the drama and cost of the emergency room when you’ve got a non-life-threatening injury or illness. You can visit Bond Clinic Urgent Care with no appointment necessary! “According to the Urgent Care Association of America, the average Urgent Care visitor waits 30 minutes or less to be seen by their provider, while a patient could potentially wait more than a couple hours. The cost can also vary greatly where patients could spend seven times as much in the ER versus the Urgent.” Bond Clinic Urgent Care is open to established patients and the general public with experienced providers able to treat ailments like cold and flu, minor cuts, ear pain, fever, and mild burns (it’s also a good option if your primary doctor is all booked up). 2nd: AdventHealth Centra Care 3rd: BayCare Urgent Care BEST REHABILITATION SERVICES POLK THERAPY 295 1st St S #2, Winter Haven (863) 291-8644 polktherapy.com Polk Therapy offers a comprehensive physical therapy and rehabilitation program. They provide a welcoming atmosphere and deliver quality of care, striving to satisfy each patient by individualizing services. “Our team is committed to offering you the highest level of health care. We maintain a friendly, helpful attitude while we design personalized rehabilitation programs intended to enhance or restore your quality of life and safely return you to a normal work, recreational, and sporting lifestyle as soon as possible.” 2nd: Optimal Performance and Physical Therapies Winter Haven 3rd: Spring Lake Rehabilitation Center BEST MENTAL HEALTH SERVICES BAYCARE BEHAVIORAL HEALTH 1501 1st St S, Winter Haven (863) 294-7062 FB: BayCare IG @baycare baycare.org The largest full-service, community-based healthcare system in the Tampa Bay area, Baycare Behavioral Health offers a full range of comprehensive services for mental health and addiction issues tailored to meet the needs of children, adults, and families. BayCare notes, “Wellness is more than just your physical health. It’s also about being ‘mentally well.’” From anxiety and substance use disorders to depression and schizophrenia, BayCare can help you navigate care and reclaim your mental well-being. 2nd: Heartland Counseling Center 3rd: The Sweet Center BEST DOGGY DAYCARE LITTLE WOLFE’S PET RESORT 555 6th St NW, Winter Haven (863) 293-7327 FB: Little Wolfe’s Pet Resort IG @littlewolfespetresort littlewolfes.com Where dogs can bark and sniff and play all day! Best Of Haven voters give five dog bones across the board for this pawsitively fantastic doggy daycare. Sweet pup Nola is barking their praises with her mom, saying, “Huge thank you to everyone at Little Wolfe’s! Our Nola loves going there, and we know that she is cared for and loved the same way we do. Happy Dog! I would give 10 stars if I could.” Camp Little Wolfe’s is a supervised doggy daycare where groups are established by size and disposition, and pups can play and pant to their heart’s content. Pet parents can rest assured their dogs are in good company at daycare as Camp Little Wolfe’s require attendees to be spayed/ neutered, clean, well groomed, and free of parasites. 2nd: Paw Printz 3rd: Orchid Springs Animal Hospital BEST DOG GROOMER LITTLE WOLFE’S PET RESORT 555 6th St NW, Winter Haven (863) 293-7327 FB: Little Wolfe’s Pet Resort IG @littlewolfespetresort littlewolfes.com When your pup looks ruff, take them to Little Wolfe’s Pet Resort! Opened in 1986 by Anne E. Wolfe, this Winter Haven pet resort is a repeat Best Of Haven winner in the Doggy Daycare and Dog Groomer categories. Little Wolfe’s Pet Resort is a full-service groomer offering haircuts, nail trimming, baths, and even show-quality trims by appointment. One happy dog dad raved, “Bruno’s looking handsome after his bath and nail trim. Everybody I’ve talked to here is great, and the owner is passionate about caring for the pets they’re entrusted with. Can’t recommend them enough.” 2nd: Grooming Deals Pet Spa & Salon 3rd: Paw Printz BEST VETERINARIAN GARDEN GROVE ANIMAL HOSPITAL 3033 Cypress Gardens Rd, Winter Haven (863) 324-0623 FB: Garden Grove Animal Hospital ggahvet.com This full-service animal hospital takes great pride in providing a personalized veterinary experience and thorough evaluations. One happy pup parent writes, “Dr Beatty is the best! He really takes time to talk to us every time we are there with our dogs. We never feel rushed and always know that he cares. He is the most dedicated veterinarian we have seen.” Independently owned, Garden Grove Animal Hospital offers a range of pet care services, including dental, surgeries, and more. “We take time to build a relationship with every human and pet that comes through our doors to lessen the stress and make the visit to the vet a positive one.” 2nd: Orchid Springs Animal Hospital 3rd: Veterinary Healthcare Associates

  • LKLD Best of 2022 -Home Services

    BEST REALTOR TONYA REGAN THE MCKEEL TEAM, KELLER WILLIAMS (863) 602-7742 FB: Tonya Regan Realtor IG @tonyaregan_realtorkw tonyaregan.kw.com On the hunt for your dream home? Tonya Regan can help! Regan is a repeat winner in the Best Realtor category. Clients give Regan five stars for her responsiveness, negotiation skills, professionalism, communication, and market expertise. One client wrote of Regan, “As a real estate broker myself I know quality professionals when I see them. My wife and I chose Tonya as our Realtor due to her exceptional knowledge of the market and attention to detail. She was patient, communicative, and always available throughout the process. I highly endorse her for her and will always use her for my real estate transactions.” 2nd: Christina Moore The Moore Team, Keller Williams 3rd: Brian Stephens Keller Williams BEST REALTY COMPANY KELLER WILLIAMS REALTY SMART 218 E Pine St. Lakeland (863) 577-1234 FB @kwlakeland IG @kwrealtysmart polk.yourkwoffice.com Keller Williams Realty Smart gets high marks across the board from clients and agents alike. Serving all of Central Florida, KW Realty Smart can help you buy or sell your residential and commercial property. Clients who use this realty company remark on their professionalism, quality, responsiveness, and value. According to Keller Williams, “Our agents have local data and expert knowledge to guide you through the process of selling and buying.” 2nd: S&D Real Estate Services 3rd: SVN Saunders Ralston Dantzler Real Estate BEST MORTGAGE BROKER COMPASS MORTGAGE LLC 705 E Orange St, Lakeland (863) 802-1242 FB @compassmortgagellc IG @compassmortgagellcfl compassmortgagellc.com Where banks are often limited in the loan products they carry, Compass Mortgage extends to you their “Broker Advantage.” According to Compass Mortgage, “As a Mortgage Broker, we actually have access to thousands of different loan products. For this reason, we will typically be able to find a loan product that matches your particular situation. We will help you choose the best possible product with the lowest possible rate.” Some of their mortgage loan products include FHA, VA, USDA, and Conventional to assist you with all your residential mortgage and refinancing needs. 2nd: The Mortgage Firm Lakeland 3rd: Home Solution Lenders BEST AC REPAIR PAYNE AIR CONDITIONING & HEATING 1048 E Oleander St, Lakeland (863) 686-6163 FB @PayneAir IG @payne_air payneair.com Is it hot in here? Call Payne Air Conditioning & Heating! Payne’s reputation for honesty, integrity, and work ethic are backed by 86 years in the business. They offer AC repair, HVAC maintenance, air conditioner installation, heating service, and heat pump installation for residential and commercial properties. Take the pain out of ac repair with Payne Air Conditioning! One cool customer wrote, “Called Payne AC this morning and Greg Wilson was at my door shortly after I called. Greg quickly diagnosed the issue and made the repair. He was very professional and detailed the issue and what repairs were needed. I highly recommend using this company for any AC repairs.” 2nd: Wards Air Conditioning 3rd: The Lakeland Air Conditioning Company BEST ELECTRICIAN WILSON ELECTRIC COMPANY 230 N Ingraham Ave, Lakeland (863) 682-0158 FB @TheWilsonElectric wilsonelectriccompany.com Wilson will get you wired up! These residential and commercial electricians have served Lakeland, Winter Haven, and the surrounding areas since 1922. Wilson Electric Company can help you with interior and exterior jobs (large or small), new builds and extensions, and they offer 24/7 emergency service, so you aren’t left in the dark. “Our electricians have at least five years of working experience in residential projects and at least eight years working experience in industrial and commercial residential installation. We are the electrical contractors you can trust with your home or business.” 2nd: Speedway Electric 3rd: Aveco Electrical, Inc. BEST PLUMBING COMPANY RICHARD C. FOX PLUMBING 1103 Lakeland Hills Blvd, Lakeland (863) 816-9414 FB @richardfoxplumbing richardfoxplumbing.com Family-owned and operated for over 20 years, Richard C. Fox Plumbing provides commercial and residential plumbing services. Plumbing problem in the middle of the night? They offer 24/7 emergency services too! Sewer camera, sewer jetting, water heater repair, plumbing repipes – no matter the service you need, Richard C. Fox Plumbing has a 100% satisfaction guarantee backed by a one-year warranty on all services and manufacturer’s warranty on products. One customer wrote, “Richard Fox Plumbing is my go-to for any plumbing problems. Team is always professional and prices are very reasonable. Trust them for any job! You won’t be disappointed!” 2nd: Curry & Co. Plumbing 3rd: Gillum-Waddell Plumbing Co. BEST ROOFING COMPANY R.I.G. ROOFING 2001 Havendale Blvd NW, Winter Haven (863) 294-4477 FB @RIGroofing IG @rigroofing rigroofing.com “Your Shingle Best Roofer” wins again! R.I.G. Roofing is a locally owned roofing contractor providing service to residential and commercial customers, including free storm damage assessments, emergency roof repair, insurance roof claim assistance, and financial options, across Polk County and Central Florida. “We are a faith-driven company with over 30 years experience. We’ll always tell you the truth. Each roof is in a different stage of its life, and we will help you to devise a plan that, if possible, extends the life of your roof....instead of just trying to sell you a new one.” 2nd: High Tower Roofing 3rd: Musick Roofing BEST PATIO SCREENING COMPANY MID-FLORIDA ALUMINUM & RESCREENS (863) 289-2368 FB: Mid-Florida Aluminum & Rescreens Best Of LKLD voters continually trust Mid-Florida Aluminum & Rescreens to keep them made in the shade! This licensed and insured full-service aluminum company provides sliding garage screens, windows/doors, seamless gutters, rescreen, soffit/fascia, carport, vinyl siding, hand-railing, and screen enclosures. Based out of Polk County and serving all of Central Florida, Mid-Florida Aluminum is a certified dealer for LifeStyle Screens, Mystic Motorized Screens, Genius Retractable, & Rollaround Screens. This allows them to offer more than the standard type of screen enclosure for any home or business. Call or message them for more information or a free quote today! 2nd: Jack Hall Jr’s Construction and Aluminum 3rd: Polk Patio and Screening Services BEST CONTRACTOR/ CONSTRUCTION COMPANY SPRINGER CONSTRUCTION 2622 Longhorn Dr, Lakeland (863) 225-5606 springerconstructionco.com Respect, honesty, humility, and trust – these are the core values Springer Construction is built on. Founded in 1987, this third-generation, familyowned General Contracting firm builds and maintains Industrial, Retail, and Commercial Construction. Their portfolio includes exceptional work for Bernie Little, Streamsong, Yard on Mass, Front Page Brewing, several MIDFLORIDA Credit Union locations, and more. Springer Construction says, “Our blueprint for success is delivering quality construction on time and on budget.” 2nd: Sharrett Construction 3rd: GCS Remodel BEST RETIREMENT COMMUNITY BEACON TERRACE 2425 Harden Blvd, Lakeland (855) 681-1987 mymhcommunity.com/Communities/Florida/ BeaconTerrace Retire and relax in Lakeland’s premier (and pet-friendly) 55+ retirement mobile home community. Beacon Terrace offers community amenities including a community swimming pool, whirlpool-spa-hot tub, billiards, library, game room, clubhouse, and fishing opportunities. Its on-site management and laundry facilities ensure residents a safe and convenient environment. “Located in the tranquil city of Lakeland, FL, Beacon Terrace offers its residents the ease of living in the Tampa/Clearwater/St. Petersburg metro area without all of the noise and traffic.” 2nd: The Estates at Carpenters 3rd: Lake Ashton BEST HOTEL THE TERRACE HOTEL, TAPESTRY COLLECTION BY HILTON 329 E Main St, Lakeland (863) 688-0800 FB @TerraceHotel IG @terracehotellakeland terracehotel.com A historic boutique hotel overlooking Lake Mirror, the Terrace Hotel offers full-service luxury a short walk from Munn Park. Guests don’t have to roam far to grab a bite to eat with the on-site restaurant, The Terrace Grille, which boasts fresh, made-fromscratch dishes served in an upscale dining space with floor-to-ceiling arched windows and black and white patterned floors. The Terrace Hotel offers 88 guest rooms and three meeting rooms, including the grand Cypress Ballroom, an ideal space for wedding and corporate events. 2nd: Hampton Inn Lakeland 3rd: SpringHill Suites by Marriott Lakeland BEST APARTMENT COMMUNITY LAKELAND GRAND 4315 Talon Loop, Lakeland (863) 400-3465 FB @lakelandgrand IG @lakelandgrand lakelandgrand.com “Live in a fresh new community with cutting-edge design, incredible amenities, and engaging social spaces at our brand new Lakeland apartment homes.” The name says it all – Lakeland Grand Apartments delivers on its promise of luxury with “contemporary yet sophisticated interior designs.” Residents can choose from one, two, and threebedroom floor plans to suit their needs. Lakeland Grand amenities include a pool, clubhouse, fitness center, sauna, on-site maintenance and management, playground, business center, garage, free weights, and high internet speed. 2nd: Carlton Arms 3rd: Mirrorton Apartments BEST CLEANING COMPANY ONE CLEAN MOM CLEANING & ORGANIZATION (863) 670-9615 FB @onecleanmom onecleanmom.com No need to do the dirty work when you have One Clean Mom! This Lakeland-based cleaning and organization service says, “Cleaning messes is our passion.” Owner Ashley Miller and her staff provide initial/ deep clean, standard clean, and move-in/move-out cleaning services. Additionally, One Clean Mom offers organizing services, with or without side-by-side client help. “One Clean Mom is the best. I have been using them for several years and wouldn’t think of using anyone else. Always punctual and job is well done,” writes one satisfied client. 2nd: The Cleaning Authority 3rd: Busy Bees Cleaning Service BEST POOL SERVICE COMPANY PINCH A PENNY Multiple Locations FB @PinchAPennyPool IG @pinchapennypool pinchapenny.com There’s no reason to dip into your savings when you just want to take a dip in your pool. The cannonball king of the summer goes to Pinch A Penny for the pool service value they provide to Polk County customers. ‘The perfect people for the perfect pool’ offer pool cleaning and maintenance, equipment installation and repair, renovations, acid washing and stain treatment, and leak detection and repair. “With more than 260 stores and over 45 years in the business, Pinch A Penny has the knowledge and expertise to handle any pool care problem. Plus, we have more Certified Pool Operators than any other pool supply store, so why trust your swimming pool or backyard to anyone else?” 2nd: Michael’s Pool Service 3rd: Mike’s Quality Pools BEST STORAGE FACILITY EXTRA SPACE STORAGE Multiple Locations (877) 540-3698 FB @extraspace IG @extraspace extraspace.com We could all use some Extra Space, right? Founded in 1977, Extra Space Storage is now the second largest operator of self-storage facilities in the United States. Their facilities are equipped with video surveillance, personalized security codes to access gates and entry points, and are well-lit throughout the property so you can ensure your belongings stay safe. Extra Space Storage offers climate-controlled storage, vehicle storage, and more. Their online Storage Unit Size Guide can help you figure out what size storage unit best fits your needs! 2nd: StoreRight Self Storage 3rd: Century Storage

  • LKLD Best of 2022 - Professional Services

    BEST FLORIST BLOOM SHAKALAKA 640 E Main St, Lakeland (Inside The Joinery) (863) 417-3007 FB: @bloom.shakalaka1 IG @bloom.shakalaka bloomshakalaka.com “Funky Fresh Blooms” brought to you by Bloom Shakalaka! Ashton Event’s Laura Helm started this cute little flower shop and gift boutique. They offer flower wraps and arrangements, wearables, full-service event florals, subscriptions, and a pickyour-stems flower bar. “At Bloom Shakalaka, we want to be known as the funky, fresh flower shop whose mission is to spread joy. We believe that every single bloom is a miracle of both strength and hope - and we love getting to offer that to others.” 2nd: Flower Cart Florist 3rd: Flowers By Edith BEST WEDDING VENUE HAUS 820 820 N Massachusetts Ave, Lakeland (888) 428-7820 FB: Haus 820 IG @haus820 haus820.com Renovated historic warehouse turned oh-socool event venue, Haus 820, is an industrial chic wedding haven. The 1924 building was first an A&P grocery store, then a furniture warehouse before it was brought back to its roots and restored, including original wall-to-wall white brick, 17-foot exposed rafters, and charcoalstained and sealed cement floors. In addition to the main open area (a blank canvas to make the event all your own), Haus 820 features a permanent 16-foot bar, catering finishing kitchen, restrooms, and a bridal suite in the building next door with private bathrooms. The private courtyard was created from the original loading docks and is perfect for a sunny afternoon ceremony or vows under the stars. 2nd: Hollis Garden 3rd: The Terrace Hotel Lakeland, Tapestry Collection by Hilton BEST WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHER PARIS SCOTT PHOTOGRAPHY (863) 307-1868 FB: Paris Scott Photography IG @parisscottphotography parisscottphotography.com There’s a bit of magic in Paris Scott’s pictures. Her style is romantic and cool, bringing out the love and personalities of the couples she photographs. “My approach to taking photos is an exchange in energy. Creating a calm space where you can genuinely feel like yourself is what it’s all about,” says Scott. Paris Scott specializes in Elopements, Lifestyle, and Adventure photoshoots that her clients adore. One bride wrote, “Paris is amazing! Her photos are so dreamy, and it just made me feel like a princess in a fairytale. She’s super sweet and made the entire experience wonderful. I can’t wait to work with Paris in the future!” 2nd: Emily Plank Photography 3rd: Garry & Stacy Photography Co. BEST EVENT ENTERTAINMENT DREAMS COME TRUE ENTERTAINMENT 214 Traders Alley, Lakeland (863) 944-1264 FB @DreamsComeTrueEntertainment IG @dctemagicalmemories dreamscometrueentertainment.com Your next party needs a princess! Dreams Come True Entertainment provides character entertainment for all ages. They can make an appearance at your private party, host your private event at their Enchanted Fairytale Hollow in Lakeland, or you can join them for weekly and monthly events! Award-winning custommade costumes and experienced actors bring an unmatched level of authenticity (and magic) to each fairytale and superhero character. Owner Amy Sharpe says, “Dreams Come True Entertainment is all about creating magic for all ages. It has always been my dream to make children happy and make a difference in their lives, and with my new company, now I can do that while doing something I love and bring magic and hope into hearts young and old. I strive my hardest to be the most memorable, authentic and fun entertainer you ever meet!” 2nd: Graingertainment 3rd: Triviosity Live Events BEST DRY CLEANER GARMENT CARE PROS AT SOUTHSIDE CLEANERS 901 Florida Ave S, Lakeland (Second location in Plant City) (863) 688-4747 FB @SouthsideCleaners garmentcarepros.com Perhaps best known for their snappy signs, Garment Care Pros at Southside Cleaners continues to be a Best Of LKLD voter favorite choice for dry cleaning. Since 1954, Southside Cleaners has provided Lakeland with the highest quality of care for its garments. They are one of the only eight companies worldwide to have multiple employees pass the rigorous training to become a Certified Garment Care Professional (CGCP). This team of literal garment care pros offers traditional dry cleaning and laundry services, weekly home/ office service plans, and historic garment and wedding gown restoration. One long-time customer wrote, “Southside has been a staple in the Lakeland community for decades. Excellent work and service with weekly delivery and pick up. Thank you for always going above and beyond!” 2nd: Regal $2.95 Cleaners 3rd: Touch of Class Dry Cleaners BEST AUTO REPAIR WEBB’S BP SERVICES CENTER 2820 Florida Ave S, Lakeland (863) 686-5498 webbs-servicecenter.business.site Is your car making that weird noise again? Check engine light ominously glowing at you from the dash? Webb’s is where you should go! This familyowned and operated auto repair shop has served Lakeland since 1957, with all work guaranteed. Their Master ASE certified mechanics offer AC service, tires, batteries, check engine light, power locks and windows, tire repairs, CV axles, oil changes, transmission flush, brake service, tuneups, and more. One review reads in part, “Since my first dealings with them over a year ago, they have been exceptional, considerate, and gone out of their way, even when busy, to make sure my vehicle was running properly, and I knew it was in good hands and safe on the road.” 2nd: Levy’s Imperial Tire 3rd: Joyce Automotive BEST AUTO DEALER REGAL HONDA 2615 Lakeland Hills Blvd, Lakeland 863-400-5298 FB @RegalHonda www.regalhonda.com Has searching for a new car been more difficult than it should be? Regal to the rescue! Regal Honda is a family-owned and operated Honda dealership and home of the Lifetime Warranty. Regal Honda makes it easy with a tailored car buying experience with professional associates available to assist you in choosing the right new or pre-owned model from their expansive selection. From credit assistance with your car loan to service performed by factory-trained technicians, Regal keeps your car experience stress-free. One Regal customer wrote in part, “My wife and I are new to the area and were welcomed by a very friendly staff. Our salesperson Douglas Maynard guided us through the process of trading in our old vehicle and coming to terms on a new vehicle way easier and in less time than we thought was possible. His low pressure approach along with his experience and knowledge was a breath of fresh air!” 2nd: Fields Motorcars 3rd: Cannon Automotive Group BEST BOAT DEALER OUTCAST WATERSPORTS 4020 Bartow Rd, Lakeland (863) 816-6081 FB @outcastboats IG @outcastws outcastwatersports.com “From boat sales to service, Outcast has set the standard for consistent quality and familyoriented customer service. Partnering only with brands in the top of their fields, we strive to give our customers the best products and service available.” This bay area boat dealer has been serving Tampa Bay’s boat sales and service needs since 1996. They expanded to Polk County in 2016 and brought with them decades of experience and technical knowledge with mechanics on staff required to attend Yamaha school yearly for their continued education. Expect top brands, quality customer service, and a family feel at Outcast. 2nd: Old Salt Marine 3rd: Action Water Sports of Central Florida BEST OIL CHANGE TAKE 5 OIL CHANGE (Multiple locations) FB @Take5OilChange IG @take5oilchange take5oilchange.com Take 5 Oil Change, home of “the quickest oil change in Lakeland,” offers a drive-thru 10-minute oil change service with no appointment necessary. Just pick your oil from the technicians’ options, sit back, and relax while expert technicians change your oil and filter, replenish under-hood fluids, and check your air filter and wiper blades. One customer’s five-star review from the Take 5 Oil Change at 5250 Florida Ave S, Lakeland, reads in part, “This is my favorite place to get my oil changed. They are so friendly and communicative. They are always fast and efficient.” 2nd: Levy’s Imperial Tire & Auto Service 3rd: TIE – Jiffy Lube Pep Boys BEST CPA DIANE HERRINGTON, CPA, P.A. 202 Lake Miriam Dr # E8, Lakeland (863) 644-7125 FB: Diane R. Herrington, CPA, P. A. dianeherringtoncpa.com Polk County native Diane R. Herrington has worked in the accounting field since 1970 and became a licensed CPA in Florida in 1980. She founded her accounting firm in 1983, providing personalized tax preparation, tax planning, and business consulting services for individuals, businesses, estates, and trusts. According to Herrington, “Every client is important to us, and we want to help take the burden of bookkeeping, tax, and financial problems off your shoulders.” Backed by decades of experience and detailed customer service, Diane Herrington’s customers often rave about her professionalism, quality, responsiveness, and the value of her services. 2nd: David R. Ramos, CPA 3rd: Virginia “Ginny” Harris, CPA, MBA Harris & Hahn, P.A. BEST FINANCIAL ADVISOR CONLEY THORNHILL THORNHILL WEALTH MANAGEMENT - UBS FINANCIAL SERVICES INC. 295 1st St S, Winter Haven (863) 298-3600 advisors.ubs.com/thornhillgroup Senior Vice President of Wealth Management and Financial Advisor Conley Thornhill has provided clients comprehensive and customized wealth management solutions for over 40 years. Thornhill has received the Forbes Best-in-State Wealth Advisor Florida distinction in 2020, 2021, and 2022 and is one of the few advisors to earn and maintain both the Certified Financial Planner™ and Certified Investment Management Analyst® designations. “Conley has taken on every type of market environment, giving him the clarity to navigate whatever financial questions you may have. He is passionate about helping clients organize and simplify their financial lives, no matter how complex.” 2nd: Chuck Foss | CORE Wealth Advisors 3rd: Matt Bishop | Edward Jones BEST ATTORNEY LAURIANE CICCARELLI | MILLER TROIANO, P.A. 2323 Florida Ave S, Lakeland (863) 688-7038 FB: Miller Troiano, P.A. millerlawfl.com Since graduating from Stetson University College of Law in 1996, attorney Lauriane Ciccarelli has been involved in thousands of eminent domain cases. Now with Miller Troiano, P.A., she also practices in the areas of real estate, estate planning, and general civil litigation. Ciccarelli is a former member of Business Network International, Business in Motion Chapter, where she served as President in 2014. She currently sits on the Board of Campfire USA, is a member of the American Business Women’s Association, Lakeland Downtown Chapter, and served as Vice President in 2014. 2nd: Daniel F. Pilka Pilka, Adams, & Reed, P.A. 3rd: Timothy F. Campbell Clark, Campbell, Lancaster, Workman & Airth, P.A. BEST BANK MIDFLORIDA CREDIT UNION Multiple Locations FB @MIDFLORIDA IG @midflorida_creditunion midflorida.com MIDFLORIDA, a repeat Best Of Haven winner for Best Bank, is not-for-profit and member-owned, offering banking products and services including personal and business banking, loans, mortgages, and investing. It began in 1954 as Polk County Teachers Credit Union and now has more than 60 branches as Central Florida’s community credit union. MIDFLORIDA emphasizes personal attention and competitive rates, “Because your money isn’t just a string of numbers on an account statement. It’s personal—and we think the way you bank should reflect that.” 2nd: Citizens Bank & Trust 3rd: Truist BEST INSURANCE AGENT JOY MORSE | STATE FARM 5727 US Hwy 98 S, Lakeland (863) 647-2915 FB @JoyMorseInsurance joymorse.com Serving Lakeland and the surrounding areas, Joy Morse and her team have over 80 years of combined State Farm experience. Their agency has qualified for multiple State Farm Awards over the years, including Ambassador Travel, State Farm Crystal Honor, and State Farm Chairman’s Circle. Morse can help you with Auto, Homeowners, Life, and Health Insurance and assist small business owners with their Commercial Insurance. “My team of licensed insurance professionals and I are here to help make insurance & financial services easy to understand. We are here to protect you from everyday risks and make sure that your insurance program doesn’t have gaps or caps that you are unaware of.” 2nd: Karen Bryan | State Farm 3rd: Mark Spann | Mulling Insurance BEST SPA DAYDREAMS DAY & MED SPA 1463 Town Center Dr. E, Lakeland (863) 686-5859 FB @DayDreamsDaySpaLakeland IG @daydreams.dayspa daydreamsdayspa.com Treat yourself to a full body massage or facial (or both) at DayDreams Day & Med Spa. Each massage begins with an opening scent and an optional head and scalp massage. DayDreams offers massages to relax and rejuvenate you, from Swedish and Bamboo Fusion to Deep Therapy. They even have spa packages for the complete royal treatment like the Renewal Suite, which includes an 80-minute Swedish massage, targeted corrective facial, classic manicure, and signature pedicure. Book an appointment at their med spa with APRN Alicia “Tonja” Arkell, who specializes in BOTOX and fillers. 2nd: TIE – TrueMedSpa Bella Viságe Medical & Aesthetic Rejuvenation 3rd: Pura Vie Holistic Studio BEST HAIR SALON BELLE LA VIE SALON & SPA 4525 Florida Ave S Suite #16, Lakeland (863) 617-5408 FB @bellelaviesalonlakeland IG @bellelaviesalonandspalakeland bellelaviesalonandspa.com Time to touch up that Balayage, babe – and other salons just don’t cut it. Clients rave about the atmosphere, stylists, and overall doting experience at Belle La Vie Salon & Spa. Owner Charline Fulbright and her team have more than 27 combined years of experience in the beauty, health, and wellness industries. This premier salon offers cuts and styles, formal styles for special occasions, premier color design, hair extensions, textures, and straighteners. “With services ranging from the newest hairstyles to customized facials. There is surely something to tickle everyone’s fancy. Experience the difference at Belle La Vie Salon and Spa, where nurturing inner and outer beauty is what matters most!” 2nd: Studio 323 3rd: Glam Color Bar BEST BARBER SKULLY’S BARBER SALON 434 W Pipkin Rd, Lakeland (863) 224-3507 FB: Skullys Barber Salon IG @skullysbarbersalon skullysbarbersalon.com From “a tank of gas and a dream” to an awardwinning mobile and brick-and-mortar salon. Congratulations on another Best Barber win, Skully! This master barber and Best Of LKLD voter favorite founded his hair biz doing house calls in 2015 and opened his mobile barbershop out of a 32-foot RV in 2017. Skully’s Barber Salon now has a physical location on W. Pipkin Road in Lakeland. Skully can hook you with a haircut, skin fade, beard trim, or shave (he does women’s hair too)! One client testimonial reads, “Always a pleasure. Good conversation, good prices, and very very comfortable. Not to mention, great cuts every time. Definitely the guy to go to for all your barbershop needs!” 2nd: Kirkland’s Barber Shop 3rd: TIE – Lakeland Barber Company Gents Classic Cuts BEST NAIL SALON PAINT NAIL BAR 1486 Town Center Drive, Lakeland (863) 777-2947 FB @paintnailbarlakeland IG @paintlakeland paintnailbar.com/lakeland-fl PAINT Nail Bar – not your average nail experience. “Whether it is cleanliness, color selection, client service, nail art, environment, attention to detail, or the wonderful energy at PAINT…you name it, we’ve thought of it, developed it, and fine-tuned it based on staff and client feedback.” PAINT Nail Bar features only vegan and formaldehyde-free lacquers and exclusively uses LED lamps for curing their water-based gel polishes. They also opt for ceramic pedicure basins over whirlpool jets (which often harbor bacteria). With nail artists trained in technique, sanitation, and modern trends – what’s not to love? 2nd: Lee Spa Nails 3rd: Noire the Nail Bar BEST TATTOO STUDIO BLACK SWAN TATTOO 2947 Florida Ave S, Lakeland (863) 937-9777 FB @blackswantattoo IG @blackswantattoo blackswantattoo.com Established in 2007, Black Swan Tattoo provides a relaxed atmosphere, clean environment, and tattoos worth talking about. Their six artists have over 70 years of combined experience and are versed in all styles of tattooing. One Black Swan client wrote in part, “Hands down the best tattooing experience that you can have in Lakeland. I’ve had the pleasure of being tattooed by both Cory Craft and Phil Snyder several times, and there’s no one else that I trust more to bring alive the tattoos I [envision].” 2nd: Gaslight Tattoo Company 3rd: Holy Grail Tattoo BEST PIERCING BLACK SWAN TATTOO 2947 Florida Ave S, Lakeland (863) 937-9777 FB @blackswantattoo IG @blackswantattoo blackswantattoo.com Best Of LKLD voters applaud Black Swan Tattoo for a prime piercing experience. Black Swan pierced patrons note the shop’s commitment to detail and cleanliness with the tools, chair, and room sanitized between clients. Although it appears they no longer offer piercing as a service, over the last year, they did it best! 2nd: Holy Grail Tattoo 3rd: Atomic Tattoos Lakeland

  • Haven Best of 2022 - Professional Services

    BEST FLORIST LASATER FLOWERS 254 W Central Ave Ste A, Winter Haven (863) 294-3213 FB @lasaterflowers IG @lasaterflowers lasaterflowers.net “Want to make a great impression? We can arrange that!” This flower power boutique floral design studio, established in 1958, offers arrangements for every occasion with a freshness guarantee. Lasater Flowers also extends gift sets, seasonal blooms, and subscriptions with personalized plans to fit your style, budget, and delivery frequency. A Lasater Flowers customer raved, “I subscribed to the bi-weekly delivery service, and each bouquet I get is nicer than the last! The flowers are gorgeous, and they last quite a while.” 2nd: Golden Petal Designs 3rd: Angelic Flowers BEST WEDDING VENUE VENUE 650 650 6th St SW, Winter Haven (863) 287-3814 FB @venue650 IG @venue650 venue650.com Industrial and elegant, Venue 650 is Winter Haven’s premier wedding venue and a Best Of Haven voter favorite. Its lofty ceilings, sprawling windows, and adjoining open-sky courtyard visually lend even more space to the building’s 10,500 square feet. The versatile event venue, complete with exposed brick walls and concrete floor, can see any event vision realized and comfortably accommodate up to 400 guests. Additional Venue 650 features include high-speed internet, ample well-lit parking, a catering kitchen, and dressing suites. One Venue 650 testimonial reads in part, “We are so thankful that Venue 650 was our choice for our wedding day. It was the perfect place for our friends and family to celebrate together!” 2nd: Adams Estate 3rd: Blue View Barn BEST WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHER GONZALEZ LUGO PHOTOGRAPHY 5603 Struthers Ct, Winter Haven (863) 589-8438 FB: Gonzalez Lugo Photography, LLC IG @gonzalezlugophoto gonzalezlugophoto.com Maryel and Alfredo, the couple behind the lens of Gonzalez Lugo Photography, met and fell in love by capturing it for others. Their portfolio is filled with magical, timeless moments, from a sweet hug from a tiny ring bearer to a sunset kiss shared between a bride and groom. “From the first inquiry with us, you will shortly realize that you are not only gaining your wedding photographers but also your go-to friends when you need advice; your timeline creator because we want you to relax and enjoy every single moment of your wedding day, and relax knowing that you’re going to have the most beautiful and timeless imagery of your wedding day.” 2nd: Mikey Beasley | Caloosa Media 3rd: Mindy Mier Photography BEST EVENT ENTERTAINMENT NEXT LEVEL ENTERTAINMENT LLC 770 Ave B SW, Winter Haven (727) 614-3652 FB @nextlevelent1djs wedding-and-events-by-dj-melvin.business.site This DJ service will have everybody on the dance floor at your upcoming wedding, birthday, or corporate party. They can take your party to the next level with a photo booth, lighting, and special effects. DJ Melvin’s clients continually sing his praises, like this five-star review which reads in part, “DJ Melvin is absolutely amazing!! He is outgoing and funny. Takes good care of his clients and always goes above and beyond. He is super talented and definitely knows what he is doing. He works countless hours making sure each and every wedding is just perfect, and he is very transparent and tells you exactly what to expect on your big day. Not only is he an awesome DJ, but he is a great host and a great coordinator as well.” 2nd: DJ Bush Entertainment 3rd: Triviosity Live Events BEST DRY CLEANER TOP HAT CLEANERS 150 2nd St. NW, Winter Haven (863) 293-2627 212 N Main St, Auburndale (863) 967-2287 FB @TopHatDryCleaners2013 A tip of the hat to Top Hat Cleaners for another year atop the Best Dry Cleaner category! This toptier dry cleaner owned and operated by Michelle Womble offers over 20 years of clean laundry backing up their good reputation. With four convenient locations and eco-friendly GreenEarth technology, what’s not to love? Top Hat Cleaners says, “Our friendly staff takes particular care with each and every order and proudly provides customers with professional workmanship.” 2nd: Dry Clean America 3rd: Executive Dry Cleaners BEST AUTO REPAIR STEWART AUTO REPAIR 1990 42nd St NW, Winter Haven (863) 965-2526 FB @stewartautorepair IG @stewartautorepair stewartautorepair.com Is your AC on the fritz? Transmission giving you trouble? Best Of Haven voters trust their auto repairs to Stewart! Since 1998, Stewart Auto Repair has been servicing a wide range of makes and models for their Central Florida customers. Their skilled service technicians use quality parts to repair collision and auto body damage and back up their work with a warranty. Stewart even invests in the latest auto repair tools and diagnostic software specifically tailored to your vehicle’s software. One customer wrote, “This was my first visit to Stewart Auto Repair, and I have to say I was impressed. I have 40 plus years in automotive service, from master ASE technician to service manager for 3 new car dealers. I have dealt with many independent shops and have to say my first visit to Stewart was excellent.” 2nd: Tires Unlimited 3rd: Auto Dynamics BEST AUTO DEALER JARRETT-GORDON FORD WINTER HAVEN 3015 Lake Alfred Rd, Winter Haven (863) 294-8539 FB @JarrettGordonFordLincoln IG @jarrettgordonfordwh jarrettgordonfordwinterhaven.com From test drive to tune-up, Jarrett-Gordon Ford Winter Haven keeps their customers riding in style. Part of the Jarrett Ford Automotive Group, founded in 1978 by William Richard Jarrett in Dade City, Jarrett-Gordon Ford Winter Haven offers a wide selection of new Ford and Lincoln cars, trucks, and SUVs, as well as pre-owned inventory. Their knowledgeable staff will work to find you the car you’re looking for and help to secure used vehicle financing or assist you in taking out a new auto loan. An excerpt of one rave review reads, “We love Jarrett-Gordon Ford and have purchased 4 vehicles from them in the 6 years we’ve been in Florida, two of them were previously owned and have been wonderful and reliable vehicles! The service department has always taken good care of us.” 2nd: Hill Nissan 3rd: Chevrolet Center BEST BOAT DEALER MARINE SUPPLY 717 6th St SW, Winter Haven (863) 293-1156 FB @marinesupplyboats IG @marinesupplytheboatingcenter marinesupplyboats.com Marine Supply the Boating Center is sure to float your boat! Along with their new and used boat inventory and financing, Marine Supply offers services, including battery replacement, oil change, tune-up, electrical repair and installation, storage, and more! Don’t have a boat? Rent one here! At Marine Supply, “The fun begins on the Chain of Lakes.” A customer wrote of this familyowned boat dealer, “I have used Marine Supply for most of my adult life to repair all of my boats over the years. They have always been consistent in their quality of work and fair on their repairs. I wouldn’t consider using anyone else. I have never had an issue with any work they have done for me and am confident in the event of an issue they would respond appropriately.” 2nd: Hillman Motors 3rd: Hoppy’s Marine BEST OIL CHANGE TAKE 5 OIL CHANGE 1530 1st St S, Winter Haven (863) 658-6075 FB @Take5OilChange IG @take5oilchange take5oilchange.com Take 5 Oil Change, home of “the quickest oil change in Winter Haven,” offers a drivethru 10-minute oil change service with no appointment necessary. Just pick your oil from the technicians’ options, sit back, and relax while expert technicians change your oil and filter, replenish under-hood fluids, and check your air filter and wiper blades. One customer’s five-star review reads in part, “I just discovered this place. They were pretty quick. I stayed in my own car for the full service. No uncomfortable waiting room chairs. They were super respectful, polite, and transparent. They don’t charge extra for inspecting parts they could service. They top off all fluids with your oil change.” 2nd: Tires Unlimited 3rd: Tuffy Tire & Auto Service Center BEST FINANCIAL ADVISOR AUSTIN THARP AVENTAIL WEALTH MANAGEMENT 353 Ave C SW, Winter Haven (863) 333-1927 FB @aventailwm100 www.aventailwm.com Austin Tharp joined Aventail Wealth Management in 2016 as an Investment Adviser Representative and became the firm’s co-owner and vice president in 2019. In addition to assisting his clients, Tharp has stayed engaged with his community by serving on the Eagle Scout board of review for the Lake Region District and Endeavor Winter Haven, the Greater Winter Haven Chamber of Commerce’s young professionals networking group. “Austin prides himself in always giving his clients the highest level of service in a very personal way,” according to Aventail Wealth Management. Tharp’s clients agree, with one writing in part, “Austin is an absolute pleasure to deal with, very responsive and is always happy to discuss questions or concerns.” 2nd: Doug Rathbun | Thornhill Wealth Management UBS Financial Services 3rd: Brittney Oakes | Edward Jones BEST CPA WIGGINS, SMIT, BURBY, REINEKE & CO P.A. 30 4th St SW, Winter Haven 42729 US-27, Davenport (863) 299-8084 FB @WSBR33880 IG @wsbr_cpa cpa-winterhaven.com Wiggins, Smit, Burby, Reineke & Co., P.A. specializes in accounting services for small businesses and tax services for individuals and business owners, including accounting and auditing, professional business consulting, and Quickbooks services. They’ve assisted customers since 1989, forging long-lasting relationships through their commitment to excellence and customer service. “We are committed to providing close, personal attention to our clients. We take pride in giving you the assurance that the personal assistance you receive comes from years of advanced training, technical experience, and financial acumen.” 2nd: Conner & Associates LLC 3rd: Adamson & Co, P.A. BEST ATTORNEY SOUTHERN ATLANTIC LAW GROUP, PLLC 520 6th St NW, Winter Haven (863) 656-6672 FB @WinterHavenbusinesslaw IG @southernatlanlawgroup southernatlanticlaw.com The Southern Atlantic Law Group is a statewide civil litigation and appellate firm whose attorneys have extensive litigation experience in state and federal courts. This Winter Haven-based law firm prides itself on providing client-focused representation and positive results. Their practice areas include appellate law, business litigations, class action, contract disputes, corporate/general counsel, hurricane damage, insurance claims, and personal injury. One five-star review reads, “Southern Atlantic Law Group is the most efficient and professional law firm I have had experience with in the Central Florida area. Would highly recommend them to anyone looking for an attorney that will genuinely care and help!” 2nd: The Law Offices of Carter J. Adams 3rd: Straughn & Turner, P.A. BEST BANK MIDFLORIDA CREDIT UNION Multiple Locations FB @MIDFLORIDA IG @midflorida_creditunion midflorida.com MIDFLORIDA, a repeat Best Of Haven winner for Best Bank, is not-for-profit and member-owned, offering banking products and services including personal and business banking, loans, mortgages, and investing. It began in 1954 as Polk County Teachers Credit Union and now has more than 60 branches as Central Florida’s community credit union. MIDFLORIDA emphasizes personal attention and competitive rates, “Because your money isn’t just a string of numbers on an account statement. It’s personal—and we think the way you bank should reflect that.” 2nd: Citizens Bank & Trust 3rd: SouthState Bank BEST INSURANCE AGENT ERIK SEALY | SEALY INSURANCE 3395 Cypress Gardens Rd, Winter Haven (863) 324-3100 FB: Sealy Insurance What kind of service can you expect from Erik Sealy? According to an excerpt from one five-star review, “Hands down the easiest homeowners insurance experience ever! Erik was very personable, professional and kind!” Sealy is an independent insurance agent representing over 30 home companies and 13 auto carriers, as well as commercial and financial markets, to serve his clients. Whether you need home, life, auto, or business coverage, Best Of Haven voters agree you should seal the deal with Erik Sealy. 2nd: Karen Bryan | State Farm Insurance 3rd: TIE – Barfield Insurance & Financial Services Zinsmeister Insurance BEST SPA MASSAGE AND SPINAL THERAPY OF WINTER HAVEN 546 Avenue A NE, Winter Haven (863) 294-2000 FB @MassageandSpinalTherapyofWinterHavenInc massageandspinaltherapy.com Rest, relax, and revitalize at Massage and Spinal Therapy of Winter Haven. Established in 1990, Massage and Spinal Therapy offer a full menu of spa treatments and care, including spinal decompression, on-site seated massage, Swedish massage, hot stone massage, and more! Give your skin a little love with a body wrap, scrub, facial, or microdermabrasion. One client raved, “Very relaxing atmosphere and super friendly employees! Easy to make appointments. Add the cupping! It will change your life! Love going here with my sister for relaxation time!” 2nd: The Salt Room 3rd: Oasis Spa & Nails BEST HAIR SALON U SALON 2200 Havendale Blvd NW, Winter Haven (863) 287-9231 FB @TheUSalonLLC Looking to touch up your roots or go drastic with a brand new do? A scroll through U Salon’s social media is a vibrant myriad of beautiful hair colors, styles, and cuts. One client wrote, “Kelly did an amazing job on my hair. I love that this salon has private booths, so you’re not sitting directly next to another client. It allows for privacy for each stylist and chill vibes for clients.” While booking an appointment for the Brazilian blowout of your dreams, consider their other services, including eyelash extensions, micro-blading, facials, and mani/ pedi. 2nd: Split Ends 3rd: Posh Salon and Day Spa BEST BARBER BEST CUTS BARBER SHOP 213 Ave O SW, Winter Haven (863) 293-9433 FB @BestCutsWinterHaven IG @bestcutswinterhaven bestcutswinterhaven.com The Best Cuts Barber Shop team in Winter Haven offers services at rates they stand behind for men, women, and kids! The shop opened in 2004 and has continued to build a loyal customer base one cut at a time, offering haircuts, beard trims, washes, hot towel shaves, and massage. One client raves, “We are new to the area and have been looking for a real barbershop. My husband took my boys there today, and they had a great experience. Cool atmosphere, the prices are good, and they received quality haircuts! My boys loved the entire experience and the end results! Highly recommend!” 2nd: TIE – Custom Kutz The Barber Bros. Hairstyling 3rd: Diosa Hair Studio BEST NAIL SALON OASIS SPA AND NAILS 5535 Cypress Gardens Blvd #140, Winter Haven (863) 875-8869 FB: Oasis Spa & Nails IG @oasis.spa.nails oasisspanails.com Oasis Spa and Nails, you really nailed it this year! This is the stuff mani/pedi dreams are made of. Services include a full menu of manicures (including gel), pedicures, acrylic, and even kid services so you can have a spa day with your mini-me! According to Oasis, “Our priority is to make our clients feel pampered and relaxed while getting beautified here at our salon. We will maintain our progressiveness and edginess by creating the latest trends and offering an unforgettable experience throughout your stay with us.” 2nd: HN Nails and Spa II (Tips and Toes) 3rd: Venue Nail Bar BEST TATTOO STUDIO ACES INK 838 6th St NW, Winter Haven (863) 875-3798 FB @acesinktattoo IG @acesinktattoo This repeat Best Of Haven tattoo studio winner must have a few aces up their sleeve! The shop’s mission is “to provide you with quality tattoos/ piercings in an amazing and sterile environment.” Aces Ink has a portfolio full of clean, cool, creative tattoos – and a solid five-star rating to back it up. The following excerpt is only one of the hundreds of glowing reviews for the shop. “This place is amazing. First off, the shop is bright, airy and so clean. Everyone there is super nice and easy to talk to. Jessi was my artist, and wow, she blew my expectations out of the water. The drawing she did was gorgeous, and the tattoo turned out to be more than I could have imagined.” 2nd: Skinfinity Tattoo Company 3rd: True to the Game Tattoos BEST PIERCING ACES INK 838 6th St NW, Winter Haven (863) 875-3798 FB @acesinktattoo IG @acesinktattoo And another win for Aces Ink! Clients rave about all aspects of the shop, including the atmosphere, customer service, professionalism, pricing, and quality of work. Professional Body Piercer Dakota LaRue constantly appears in reviews praising how comfortable she makes her clients and the beautiful job she does in all manner of piercings. “I love everything about this shop. The music is great, the vibe is great, the artists are great. The prices are reasonable. Everything looks very clean and sanitary. They offer you complimentary drinks while you wait. My piercer Dakota was also very nice and professional. She went over everything I needed to know and answered all of my questions with a great attitude. So glad I chose this shop over the other ones.” 2nd: True to the Game Tattoos 3rd: Skinfinity Tattoo Company

  • LKLD Best of 2021 - Food & Drink

    Best Pizza PALACE PIZZA DOWNTOWN 114 S Kentucky Ave, Lakeland (863) 688-0045 FB @palacepizzadowntown IG @palacepizzadtwn palacepizzadowntown.com 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 chopshopburgers.com 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 taco-bus.com 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 winnerscirclesportsbar.com 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 scarpasitalian.com 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 newmoonsushi.com 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 mojobbq.com 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 subsnsuch.com 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 tapatiostogo.com 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 firstwatch.com 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 shellsseafood.com 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 thaioishirestaurant.com 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 cafezuppina.com 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 mycurrymango.com 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 thepekinghouse.com 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 garysoysterbar.com 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 maydayicecream.com 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 linktr.ee/wafu 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 reececliff.com 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_ nineteen61.com 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 patio850.com 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 harborsidefl.com 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 revivallakeland.com 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 revivallakeland.com 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_ nineteen61.com 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 blackandbrew.com 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 swanbrewing.com 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 keelfarms.com 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 swanbrewing.com 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 lakelandberries.com 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 lovebirdeats.com 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 terrielobbcatering.com 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_ nineteen61.com 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 vegetationplantfood.com 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 thejoinerylkld.com 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 bornandbreadbakehouse.com 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

  • LKLD Best of 2021 - Arts

    Best Park MUNN PARK 210 E Main St, Lakeland Munn Park and the surrounding Munn Park Historic District, including many original buildings dating back to the early 1900s, is the heartbeat of the city. Named after the founder of Lakeland, Abraham Munn, the park features public art pieces, is home to many events and festivals, and is surrounded by some of Lakeland’s finest retail, restaurants, and entertainment. 2nd: Common Ground Playground 3rd: Circle B Bar Reserve Best Live Music UNION HALL 1023 Florida Ave S, Lakeland (863) 288-0372 FB @unionhallevents IG @unionhallevents unionhallevents.com This over 3000 square foot Dixieland music and event venue is the coolest place in Lakeland to catch live music across an array of genres. Union Hall radiates an easy-going, good-time warmth with its soaring ceilings, exposed terracotta brick from the 1920s, and concrete bar tops. Grab a cocktail and enjoy the show or book the space in advance for a private event. 2nd: The Pink Piano 3rd: Swan Brewing Best Art Gallery POLK MUSEUM OF ART AT FLORIDA SOUTHERN COLLEGE 800 E Palmetto St, Lakeland (863) 688-7743 FB @PolkMuseum IG @polkmuseumofart Polkmuseumofart.org Polk Museum of Art received its national accreditation as an art museum from the American Alliance of Museums in 1983. In September of 1988, the current building, designed by architect Ernie Straughn, was formally dedicated. The museum sees 140,000 visitors a year with a diverse schedule of exhibitions, workshops, and educational programs. PMA’s permanent collection has grown to more than 2,800 works of art including works by Rembrandt van Rijn, Andy Warhol, Faith Ringgold, and Pablo Picasso. Over 50 years in operation, “It is still the largest and only nationally accredited visual arts organization in Polk County and is the only fine art Smithsonian Affiliate between Orlando and Tampa.” 2nd: Polk State Lakeland Art Gallery 3rd: Melvin Art Gallery at Florida Southern College Best Public Art PINK OAK TREE IN MUNN PARK 210 E Main St, Lakeland It’s hard to miss the hot pink oak tree dressing up Munn Park. Artist David Collins, assisted by Lakeland Parks and Recreation staff, wrapped the far-reaching oak limbs with fuschia ripstop fabric and adorned it with cellophane orchids. He finished the project in February, earlier this year. According to Barry Friedman with lkldnow.com , “Munn Park is the site of several previous Collins public art installations, including 2016’s tree wrapped and painted as a giraffe and 2017’s Clearly People, which involved life-sized cling-wrap sculptures of local residents.” 2nd: Oranges by Gillian Fazio 3rd: Dixieland Dragon by Keith Williams Best Visual Artist GILLIAN FAZIO FB @gfazioart IG @gfazioart gfazioart.com Whether you’ve been inspired by her Create mural in Lakeland, or snapped a selfie in front of the oranges and monarchs that grace Slice of Happiness in Lake Wales – Gillian Fazio has probably brightened your day at some point. A Lakeland native, Fazio grew up attending art schools and found a love of painting very young. She graduated Magna Cum Laude with a Bachelors’ Degree in Fine Arts from the University of Florida in 2017. Fazio shifted from canvas to large-scale public art when she returned home and has since created over 20 murals across Central Florida. As a “new age flora and fauna artist” Fazio says her interest is in “using natural elements such as animals’ divinely designed patterns that serve a function and purpose, combined with purely aesthetic cultural patterns. [...] As the artist, my goal is to create an encounter for the audience, appreciating the intricacy of both senses of artistic intelligence.” 2nd: Bump Galletta 3rd: Stacy Tabb Best Photographer SCOTT AUDETTE IG @scottaudette scottaudette.com Demi Lovato posing across a chaise lounge while on tour, a fishing boat setting out in Boca Grande at dawn, and countless Tampa Bay Lightning game shots are all moments made timeless by talented photographer, Scott Audette. Audette is the Official Team Photographer for the Tampa Bay Lightning and House Photographer for Amalie Arena & Yuengling Center. 2nd: Paris Scott Photography 3rd: Gabby Livingstone Photography Best Band JOHN FRINZI FB: John Frinzi IG @johnfrinzi johnfrinzi.com From his first CD, Into The Dawn, to his most recent Blue Sky View (which includes collaborative works with multi-platinum Songwriter and Producer Aaron Scherz, singles “Summer Sun” and “Lyin’ or Lucky”) John Frinzi continues to prove his chops as a songwriter and vocalist. He has toured nationally, playing over 250 dates a year and has been featured at major festivals including Key West Songwriters Festival, Keith Sykes Songwriters Celebration, and more. 2nd: Smokepoint 3rd: These Times Best DJ GRAINGERTAINMENT (844)933-5001 FB @iamgraingertainment IG @graingertainment graingertainment.com Graingertainment is the premier mobile DJ and entertainment company for weddings, corporate events, birthdays, private parties, and more across Central Florida. It is their goal to make your event fun and memorable – whatever genre gets you moving, Graingertainment can play it! They also offer emcee services. “Whatever you are looking for regarding music, audio, video, or lighting for your event, we’re ready to help make your dream a reality!” When you book an event with Graingertainment, you’re getting an experienced DJ and emcee. In fact, most of their DJs are turntablists who “mix music utilizing beat matching, fading, and other creative mixing skills, not just pushing play on a CD player or iPod (unless that’s really what you want!).” 2nd: Kevin Rios 3rd: Greg Anderson Best Maker SWAN CITY CHANDLERY FB: Swan City Chandlery IG @swancitychandlery swancitychandlery.com Did someone say, ‘woman-owned smallbatch hand-poured soy candles’?! Using only 100% soy wax grown on American soil, Swan City Chandlery creates aromatic and relaxing candles. The fragrance oils that they use are phthalate-free topped with wicks made with cotton and paper for a ‘beautiful and environmentally friendly candle’ available in a variety of sizes. Swan City candles can be customized for your big day or special event too! So settle in, light a Swan City Chandlery candle, grab a book, and cozy up on the couch. 2nd: Bump Galletta 3rd: Pottery by Emily Pavlik Best Tattoo Artist MIKE TORRES 509 Florida Ave S, Lakeland (863) 816-5801 FB @gaslighttattoocompany IG @gaslighttattooco The Best Of LKLD voters have spoken! Mike Torres with Gaslight Tattoo does the sickest tattoos around. Gaslight Tattoo Company is located at the edge of Downtown Lakeland in the Dixieland Historic District in the same building as The Wax & The Needle record shop. One customer review of Gaslight reads, “It’s clean, friendly and an all around good time when having work done. MIKE T is the bestest.” 2nd: Kris Taylor | Black Swan Tattoo 3rd: Atomic Tattoos Best Piercing GASLIGHT TATTOO COMPANY 509 Florida Ave S, Lakeland (863) 816-5801 FB @gaslighttattoocompany IG @gaslighttattooco Home to the Best Tattoo Artist and the Best Piercing?! Gaslight is killing it. This Dixieland Historic District tattoo shop prides itself in providing a professional, comfortable, and clean environment for tattoos and piercings. “The piercer was amazing, Will knew what he was doing and answered all the questions I had very politely. It’s a relaxed and friendly environment,” reads one pleasantly pierced customer review. 2nd: Holy Grail Tattoo 3rd: Atomic Tattoos

  • LKLD Best of 2021 - Home Services

    Best Realtor TONYA REGAN | THE MCKEEL TEAM, KELLER WILLIAMS (863) 602-7742 FB: Tonya Regan Realtor IG @tonyaregan_realtorkw Tonyaregan.kw.com Praised for her market knowledge, communication skills, and work ethic, realtor Tonya Regan has earned her spot on our Best Of LKLD list. One client wrote, “As a real estate broker myself, I know quality professionals when I see them. My wife and I chose Tonya as our Realtor due to her exceptional knowledge of the market and attention to detail. She was patient, communicative, and always available throughout the process. I highly endorse her for her, and will always use her for my real estate transactions.” 2nd: Brock Jennings | Jennings Realty Group 3rd: Donna Barron | LaRosa Realty Prestige Best Realty Company KELLER WILLIAMS REALTY SMART 218 E Pine St. Lakeland (863) 577-1234 FB @kwlakeland IG @kwrealtysmart Polk.yourkwoffice.com Clients rave over the level of service and integrity from Keller Williams Realty Smart agents. It’s no wonder they come highly recommended for professionalism and quality from home buyers and sellers alike! Using local data and expert knowledge, Keller Williams Realty Smart agents assist Central Florida clients in the buying and selling process. 2nd: Century 21 Myers Realty 3rd: Coldwell Banker Realty Best Mortgage Broker THE MORTGAGE FIRM LAKELAND 2020 Edgewood Dr S, Lakeland (863) 937-8024 FB @TheMortgageFirmLakeland IG @homeloankeys homeloankeys.com What began as a small company in Winter Park in 1995 has grown into one of the largest private lenders in the state. The Mortgage Firm Lakeland offers many home loan options including USDA, FHA, Veteran’s Affairs, Conventional, and Bond Loans. One Mortgage Firm Lakeland client reviewed, “Our experience with The Mortgage Firm was absolute professionalism, expediency, knowledge and one-to-one interaction. They are awesome and I would definitely recommend them. Attention to details and we were informed every step of the way.” 2nd: Compass Mortgage 3rd: Home Solution Lenders Best Home Remodeling WALLER CONSTRUCTION AND DESIGN CENTER 1065 Florida Ave S, Lakeland (863) 688-8870 FB @WallerDesignCenter IG @wallergroup Wallergroup.com Does your kitchen need a facelift? Waller Construction has provided top of the line residential and commercial construction services to Central Florida clients for 60 years! A family-owned and operated company, Waller offers everything from design and build, to management, consulting, and renovation. Construction services include commercial and residential construction as well as kitchen/ bath remodeling. Waller covers your restoration needs for water damage, fire restoration, mold remediation, and hurricane/ wind. Their excellent work and professionalism have clients returning to Waller for new projects. One homeowner wrote, “We had a bathroom remodel done by Waller Construction. We enjoyed working with everyone on their team from start to finish. We are loving our new beautiful bathroom.” 2nd: Green Construction Services 3rd: Complete Kitchen & Bath Best Painting Company BILL’S PAINTING (863) 648-9577 FB @billspaintingpolkcounty billspaintingflorida.com Bill’s Painting services all of Polk County for any interior and exterior painting, drywall repair, or pressure washing needs. Bill Fulkerson founded the company in 1992 and continues to oversee every job in person and deliver each quote directly. Bill’s Painting backs their nearly 30 years in business with integrity, attention to detail, and customer service, guaranteeing 100% client satisfaction with the finished product. “Bill and his son were on time, professional, informative, and very personable. Did a great job repairing, painting and making sure the job was done to our satisfaction. I would highly recommend his company for any of your painting needs,” writes one happy customer. 2nd: Mike’s Painting and Home Improvements 3rd: Lakeland Painting Co. Best Home Inspector MAX HOME INSPECTIONS (863) 529-8604 FB: MAX Home Inspections maxinspections.com No matter how big or small your home, MAX Home Inspections will work to provide excellent service while educating and protecting property buyers. “At MAX Home Inspections, our comprehensive inspections and commitment to honesty and accuracy bring peace of mind to every client,” reads their website. Inspection services include: Full Home, Four Point, Radon, Pool, Mold, Pre Listing, New Construction Inspections and Wind Mitigations. One MAX Home client writes, “Love working with MAX Home Inspections. They have completed a few inspections for us. They are friendly, thorough, and go above and beyond. Worth every penny!” 2nd: Lakeland Home Inspection Service 3rd: RJD Home Inspections Best AC Repair WARDS AIR CONDITIONING 865 Creative Dr, Lakeland (863) 225-7202 FB: Wards Air Conditioning wardsairconditioning.com Wards AC has been recognized year after year for how cool they keep Polk County! They have provided HVAC products and services, replacement advice, and new installation for residential and commercial customers since 1961. One customer raved, “Prompt, thorough, friendly. always does a great job. Wards has serviced my air conditioner for many years and always does a fantastic job.” Some may like it hot, but we in the sunshine state do not, and Wards has kept the community from melting by installing over 50,000 systems in Polk County over the past 60 years! 2nd: United Refrigeration Inc. 3rd: Springer Bros. Air Conditioning & Heating Best Roofing Company R.I.G. CONSTRUCTION AND ROOFING 2001 Havendale Blvd NW #1, Winter Haven (863) 294-4477 FB @RIGroofing IG @rigroofing rigroofing.com Results. Integrity. Grounded. That’s what their name stands for and that’s what customers can expect from this “SHINGLE Best Roofer” around. R.I.G. puts the core values in their name at the forefront of every job. Serving the areas of Polk County and Central Florida, R.I.G. Construction and Roofing brings 30 years of experience to your next residential or commercial roofing project. Winner for Best Roofing Company on the east side of the county in our Best Of Haven last year, word seems to be spreading about their ‘through the roof’ results. 2nd: Springer-Peterson Roofing & Sheet Metal 3rd: K.L. Smith, Inc. Roofing Experts Best Plumber GILLUM-WADDELL PLUMBING CO. 2450 Commerce Point Dr, Lakeland (863) 665-6222 FB @GillumWaddellPlumbing gwplb.com What began as Gillum Plumbing in 1949, now Gillum-Waddell Plumbing, is the Best Of LKLD plumbing company this year! They offer services including line inspections, sewer jetting and drain cleaning, leak detection and repair, water heater replacement and repair, 24-hour emergency service for existing customers, and more. Plus, Gillum-Waddell has a showroom with top brands like Kohler, Moen, Delta, and American Standard for the plumbing items you need. “These people are life savers. They are so kind and professional, communication is top notch and their service is excellent. If only all vendors were so easy to work with!” wrote one happy client. 2nd: Curry & Co. Plumbing 3rd: Cypress Plumbing Best Patio Screening Company MID-FLORIDA ALUMINUM & RESCREENS (863) 289-2368 FB @Midfloridaaluminumrescreens Voted Best Patio Screening Company again! Mid-Florida Aluminum & Rescreens are a Licensed and Insured full-service aluminum, vinyl and screen company specializing in screen rooms, seamless gutter, vinyl siding, soffit/fascia, sliding garage screens and more. Based out of Polk County and serving all of Central Florida, Mid-Florida Aluminum is a certified dealer for LifeStyle Screens, Genius Retractable, & Rollaround Screens. This allows them to offer more than the standard type of screen enclosure for any home or business. Call or message them for more information or a free quote today! 2nd: Jack Hall Jr’s Construction and Aluminum 3rd: Cool Screens Florida Best Construction Company WALLER CONSTRUCTION AND DESIGN CENTER 1065 Florida Ave S, Lakeland (863) 688-8870 FB @WallerDesignCenter IG @wallergroup Wallergroup.com Claiming another spot on our Best Of LKLD list, Waller Construction is a force to be reckoned with for remodeling and construction! A family-owned and operated company for 60 years, Waller offers design and build, management, consulting, and renovation. Construction services include commercial and residential construction as well as kitchen/ bath remodeling. One client said, “We have used Waller Construction on several projects, both large and small over the past several years. We have enjoyed working with Brian Waller and the Waller team. We have found Waller’s personnel to be both completely professional and personally concerned with assuring that the project was done to our complete satisfaction. The projects were completed on time and on budget. We can recommend Waller Construction without reservation.” 2nd: Springer Construction 3rd: Green Construction Services Best Retirement Community THE ESTATES AT CARPENTERS 1001 Carpenters Way, Lakeland (863) 279-4503 FB @TheEstatesAtCarpenters IG @theestatesatcarpenters estatesatcarpenters.com The Estates at Carpenters is a not-for-profit 55+ Continuing Care Retirement Community with over thirty years of experience in the senior living space. According to their website, “We know retirees have worked hard and planned well for their retirement, and we want our residents to experience the ideal carefree, vibrant retirement lifestyle. That’s why The Estates at Carpenters is meticulously designed to meet all of your needs – and exceed your expectations – so you don’t have to settle on anything.” They offer independent living with an array of amenities and services, as well as assisted living, skilled nursing, and rehabilitation. A family member of one Estates at Carpenters resident said, “The Estates has taken great care of my family member who lives there. We are no longer worried about them. Thanks to your entire team!” 2nd: Florida Presbyterian Homes 3rd: Lake Ashton Best Hotel THE TERRACE HOTEL, TAPESTRY COLLECTION BY HILTON 329 E Main St, Lakeland (863) 688-0800 FB @TerraceHotel IG @terracehotellakeland terracehotel.com A Lakeland landmark, The Terrace Hotel is a full-service luxury hotel overlooking Lake Mirror and just a short walk from Munn Park and all that downtown has to offer. This historic hotel described as “old-world glamour that is classic and timeless” is perfect for a Lakeland staycation with 73 guestrooms and 15 suites, and the newly renovated on-site restaurant, The Terrace Grille. 2nd: SpringHill Suites by Marriott Lakeland 3rd: Hampton Inn Lakeland Best Apartment Community LAKELAND GRAND 4315 Talon Loop, Lakeland (863) 308-7279 FB @lakelandgrand IG @lakelandgrand lakelandgrand.com Lakeland Grand is a fresh-faced community delivering Lakelanders a slice of ‘the good life.’ “With premium finishes and wide-open spaces, each floor plan from Lakeland Grand brings you unparalleled luxury without sacrificing on comfort.” Lakeland Grand’s premier amenities include a pool, clubhouse, fitness center, sauna, on-site maintenance and management, playground, business center, garage, free weights, and high speed internet. 2nd: Town Center at Lakeside Village Apartments 3rd: NOBAY Best Moving Company TWO MEN AND A TRUCK 3220 Atlantic Ave, Lakeland (863) 594-1002 FB @TwoMenandaTruckPolkCounty twomenandatruck.com/movers/fl/lakeland Two Men and a Truck have been shouldering boxes, lugging couches, and taking the stress out of moving for Lakeland residents since 2007. Over the years these “Movers Who Care” completed more than 30,000 moves. They offer local moving, junk removal, longdistance moving, parking services, loading and unloading services, and boxes and supplies. With no minimum charges, you only pay for the actual time Two Men and a Truck professionals spend on your move! 2nd: Lakeland Moving & Storage 3rd: College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving Best Cleaning PARAGON HOME SERVICES 303 Florida Ave S, Lakeland (863) 666-1199 FB @ParagonCleans paragonhomeservice.com Floor care, pressure washing, lawn care, deep cleaning, handyman services, pest control, and many more cleaning and maintenance services – Paragon does it all! Whether you’re simply looking for help maintaining your home or have the bigger task of home sales prep, home purchase prep, or vacation home turnover, keep Paragon in mind because they are, well… the paragon of cleaning services. Best Of LKLD voters love that services can be bundled into a package or subscription too! 2nd: On The Spot Cleaning Solutions 3rd: The Cleaning Authority

  • LKLD Best of 2021 - Retail

    Best Clothing Store TOP BUTTONS BOUTIQUE 236 N Kentucky Ave, Lakeland (Other locations in Winter Haven and Bartow) (863) 220-2464 FB @TopButtons IG @topbuttons topbuttons.org On trend and on a mission! Top Buttons is a faith-based nonprofit organization founded by Sarah Powers in 2012. This Kentucky Ave. boutique and designer thrift shop empowers young women through mentorship, education, and fashion. At their designer thrift and boutique storefronts in Lakeland, Bartow, and Winter Haven, Top Buttons serves women through programs that provide attire at inexpensive prices. You can find new and gently used thrift items and feel good about where you shop as each purchase at Top Buttons helps to fund their charitable efforts. 2nd: Amelia Paige Boutique 3rd: Babe’s Shoes & Apparel Best Gift Shop SCOUT & TAG 244 N Kentucky Ave, Lakeland (863) 225-2426 FB @scoutingVintage IG @scoutandtag scoutandtag.com In 2013, Nikki Hunt began selling her painted furniture and found decorative items at the Lakeland Downtown Farmers Curb Market. Now, her Downtown shop, Scout & Tag, is the place to grab a cute, thoughtful, Lakeland-centric gift. Shop their 3,500 square foot storefront for home and gift items and an “ever-changing array of locally sourced and Lakeland celebrated home decor and gifts.” In addition to offering a selection of hand-painted furniture, decor, and gifts, Scout & Tag is also a Local Stockist of Annie Sloan Chalk Paint as well as an exclusive local retailer of Rafa Natural. 2nd: Bungalow Boutique & Gifts 3rd: Yates & Hagan Best Jewelry MUNCHEL’S FINE JEWELRY 3227 Florida Ave S, Lakeland (863) 619-6269 FB @Munchels IG @munchelsjewelry munchels.com Munchel’s Fine Jewelry has been putting a sparkle in the Swan City for over 30 years. Munchel’s is family-owned and operated and offers a large selection of jewelry, diamonds, and gemstones including engagement rings, wedding bands, earrings, pendants, loose diamonds, custom jewelry, and jewelry repair. Looking for an heirloom or antique? At Munchel’s you’ll also find collectable items including coins, watches, lockets, and necklaces. 2nd: Gaines Jewelers 3rd: Foshee Jewelers Best Antique Store JUNE TAYLOR 125 N Kentucky Ave #103, Lakeland (863) 670-2154 FB @junetaylorshop IG @junetaylorshop junetaylorshop.com You never know what treasures you’re going to find at June Taylor. You might go home with a rattan chair, vintage rug, or ceramic vase. You may find yourself hanging a new piece of art on your wall or hunting the perfect spot in your office for the brass swan you procured. June Taylor’s new Downtown location offers a “transitional mix of midcentury, boho, and classical pieces.” One June Taylor patron wrote, “Such a great shop. I love thrifting, markets, and antique shops, but June Taylor is very unique and really one of a kind.” 2nd: Dixieland Relics 3rd: Biggar Antiques Best Bike Shop DAVID’S WORLD CYCLE 2125 Florida Ave S, Lakeland (863) 682-7160 FB @davidsworldlakeland davidsworld.com David’s World Cycle is a family-owned chain of 21 bicycle stores throughout Central and Northern Florida. They’ve been in business for over 30 years and in that time have serviced over 30,000 bikes and sold over 170,000. In addition to a bustling service center with the ability to help any customer find the perfect set of wheels for them, David’s rents bicycles, does bicycle trade-ins, has a kids’ bike trade-up program, and offers custom bikes. Customers agree that David’s World Cycle in Lakeland is a wheelie great place for all your bike needs. “These guys were awesome to work with. They had all the parts I needed readily on hand, installed them quickly, and charged a very reasonable price for everything I got. Super happy with my experience here,” reviewed one customer. 2nd: Bent’s Cycling 3rd: LeRoy’s Bikeworks Best Thrift Store GOODWILL LAKELAND SUPERSTORE 5411 Florida Ave S, Lakeland (863) 646-4301 Whether you’re a bargain hunter looking to upcycle a coffee table or snag a newto-you vintage outfit, Goodwill Lakeland Superstore’s regularly refreshed inventory is a thrifting goldmine. And you can feel good about your purchase (or donation) too! Goodwill’s mission is to “transform lives through lifelong learning and the power of work” through employment services, training programs, and affordable housing. In addition to being a more sustainable option for fashion, furniture, household items, and more, thrifting at Goodwill or donating to them enables the organization to offer the aforementioned programs and services with 86.8% of their operating budget dedicated to them. 2nd: Top Buttons Boutique 3rd: Peace River Center Thrift Shoppe Best Florist BLOOM SHAKALAKA 640 E Main St, Lakeland (Inside The Joinery) (863) 417-3007 FB: Bloom Shakalaka IG @bloom.shakalaka bloomshakalaka.com The flower child of Ashton Event’s Laura Helm, Bloom Shakalaka is a floral hub within The Joinery offering “funky, fresh blooms served up on the daily!” No matter the occasion, Bloom Shakalaka has some pretty flowers for it. Be sure to check out their Bloom Bar where they keep a display of blooms available by the stem. You can pick your own and have them wrapped or peruse the menu and let one of Bloom’s floral designers create an arrangement for you. Don’t be shy about asking for special requests and yes, they deliver! Visit their website or follow their socials for hours of operation. 2nd: Flower Cart 3rd: The House of Flowers Best Pool Supply PINCH A PENNY Multiple Locations FB @PinchAPennyPool IG @pinchapennypool Pinchapenny.com Cool off this summer without breaking the bank! There’s a reason Pinch A Penny is known as ‘the perfect people for a perfect pool.’ Get ready to lounge poolside and let them do the work. Pinch A Penny offers pool cleaning and maintenance, equipment installation and repair, renovations, and leak detection and repair. They offer additional services to beautify your whole outdoor space including pressure washing, home landscape lighting and design, outdoor living design, screen repair, and rescreening services. Plus, you can shop all the pool, spa, and patio accessories, equipment, and supplies you need! 2nd: Michael’s Pool Service Inc. 3rd: Leslies Pool Supplies Best Dispensary SURTERRA WELLNESS 1222 Florida Ave S, Lakeland (850) 391-5455 FB @surterrawellness IG @surterrawellness surterra.com Giving the saying “laughter is the best medicine” a run for its money, Surterra Wellness provides safe, high quality cannabis to Lakeland and surrounding communities. Surterra brand products are cultivated naturally in the largest greenhouse on the East Coast without harmful chemicals and ingredients. They are working to make cannabis accessible through their online marketplace, storefronts (with plenty of product choices), and ongoing advocacy. Surterra Wellness customers regularly comment on how friendly, accommodating, and knowledgeable staff are. 2nd: MÜV Dispensary 3rd: Trulieve Best Wellness Store ANTHONY’S HEALTH HUT & RESTAURANT 5329 Florida Ave S, Lakeland (863) 644-5330 FB @anthonyshealthhut IG @anthonyshealthhut anthonyshealthhut.com Anthony’s Health Hut & Restaurant, known for their homemade soups, juices, and selection of vitamins, has been serving the needs of health-conscious customers for over 43 years. The Health Hut has an extensive selection of health foods and products from herbs and spices to vitamins and supplements, while the Restaurant serves up fresh eats like the Tarragon Chicken Salad or a Veggie Sandwich as well as healthier burger options on a whole wheat bun. The hearty and eclectic menu boasts salads, soups (rotating weekly), sandwiches, wraps, smoothies, juices, and more. 2nd: Chamberlin’s Natural Foods 3rd: Your CBD Store Lakeland Best Furniture Store CLAUSSEN’S FURNITURE 4715 Florida Ave S, Lakeland (Second location in Winter Haven) (863) 647-1000 FB @ClaussensFurniture claussensfurniture.com Get fashionable with your family room and update your dining area at Claussen’s! This family-owned furniture store has been serving Central Florida’s home furnishing needs since 1975. Their furniture selection spans the whole home including living room, dining room, bedroom, entertainment, home office, mattresses, and outdoor. One customer reviewed, “Claussen’s is top notch! We received excellent quality sofas and exceptional customer service from the sales team from the moment we walked in the door to the end from their excellent delivery team. Claussen’s far exceeded our expectations!” 2nd: Havertys Furniture 3rd: Badcock Home Furniture &more Best Bookstore BOOKS-A-MILLION 1520 Town Center Dr, Lakeland (863) 688-6382 FB @BAMLakeland IG @booksamillion booksamillion.com Looking to grab that best-seller or find a new copy of your favorite classic? BAM! Look no further than Books-A-Million. This massive one-stop-book-shop has everything you’re looking for across genres from new releases and classics to poetry, pop culture, Manga, and more. The Lakeland location is often remarked upon by customers to be clean, well-organized, and staffed by friendly folks. 2nd: Inklings Book Shoppe 3rd: Bookends Used Books Best Golf Course THE CLUB AT EAGLEBROOKE 1300 Eaglebrooke Blvd, Lakeland (863) 701-0101 FB @TheClubatEaglebrooke IG @clubateaglebrooke eaglebrooke.com A not so far away fairway surrounded by natural lakes and shady oaks is The Club at Eaglebrooke golf course, designed by architect Ron Garl. It opened in 1996 and has been the envy of other courses in Central Florida ever since. Eaglebrooke has a classic links-style design with over 100 feet of elevation change and six sets of tees on each hole. The Eaglebrooke golf course was the first in the nation to use Greg Norman’s GN 1 grass, “the fastest growing and greenest grass available” and has been consistently rated four and a half stars by Golf Digest. You could say they have the golf experience down to a tee! 2nd: Cleveland Heights Golf Course 3rd: Grasslands Golf & Country Club Best Auto Dealer REGAL HONDA 2615 Lakeland Hills Blvd, Lakeland (863) 400-5298 FB @RegalHonda regalhonda.com Regal Honda makes it easy with a tailored car buying experience. Professional associates are available to assist you in choosing the right new or pre-owned model from their expansive selection. Regal Honda is a familyowned and operated Honda dealership and home of the Lifetime Warranty. Committed to a stress-free car shopping experience, Regal Honda offers in store and online purchase options. One car-buyer wrote of Regal, “Very professional, upfront and helpful. The Regal Team was easy to do business with. We will be repeat customers!” 2nd: Fields Motorcars 3rd: Bartow Ford Best Boat Dealer OUTCAST WATERSPORTS 4020 Bartow Rd, Lakeland (863) 816-6081 FB @outcastboats IG @outcastws outcastwatersports.com Lakes abound in Polk County – heck, our city even has it in the name. Time to sail-abrate all that freshwater fishing and fun with a new boat, and Outcast Watersports is the place to get one! This bay area boat dealer has been serving Tampa Bay’s boat sales and service needs since 1996. They expanded to Polk County in 2016 and brought with them decades of experience and technical knowledge with mechanics on staff required to attend Yamaha school yearly for their continued education. Expect top brands, quality customer service, and a family feel at Outcast. We’ve heard buying a boat with them is a ‘reel’ pleasure! 2nd: Marine Supply 3rd: Old Salt Marine

  • LKLD Best of 2021 - Pro Services

    Best Family Doctor CELESTINO VEGA, MD | LAKELAND REGIONAL HEALTH 208 Main Street, Auburndale (863) 284-5000 FB @LakelandRegionalHealth IG @lakelandregionalhealth Dr. Celestino Vega has been practicing Family Medicine since 1995 and joined the staff at Lakeland Regional Health, where he currently practices, in 2016. He attended medical school at Universidad Central del Este, completed his residency at the University of Louisville and is Board Certified with the American Board of Family Medicine. Working as a Family Medicine Physician in LRH’s Auburndale primary care location, Dr. Vega sees patients ages two years and older. He often works with families, treating multiple generations which he says is special to him. Dr. Vega loves science and medicine and has a passion for helping others. His patient care philosophy is, “I believe prevention is the key to good health. We want to be proactive and not wait till there’s a problem. I aim to be compassionate and very caring with my patients.” 2nd: Jason C. Saylor, DO | Watson Clinic 3rd: Jeremy M. Katzmann, MD, FAAFP | Watson Clinic Best Hospital LAKELAND REGIONAL HEALTH Multiple Locations FB @LakelandRegionalHealth IG @lakelandregionalhealth Mylrh.org Congratulations to the more than 550 medical staff and physicians practicing in over 25 specialties at Lakeland Regional Health for being voted Best Hospital again this year! The hospital has a history spanning back over 100 years and is now the fifth largest hospital in Florida and the second largest private employer in Polk County with their health system employing over 5,400 full-time and part-time team members. Through compassionate care given to each patient, Lakeland Regional Health strives to “deliver the best outcomes and safest care by placing people at the heart of all we do. We improve lives every day by promoting wellness, education and discovery.” 2nd: Tampa General Hospital 3rd: Bartow Regional Medical Center Best Urgent Care WATSON CLINIC URGENT CARE 1600 Lakeland Hills Blvd, Lakeland (863) 680-7271 1033 North Parkway Frontage Road, Lakeland 863-647-4047 FB @watsonclinicfl IG @watson_clinic watsonclinic.com No appointment? No problem! When you need on-demand care for minor emergencies, illnesses and accidents, you don’t have to go to the emergency room. Watson Clinic Urgent Care is fully staffed by board-certified specialists and highly trained care team members to treat earaches, small cuts and fractures, upper respiratory infections and more. Watson Clinic’s walk-in care facilities also provide rapid and PCR COVID tests to the community. With onsite access to X-ray, laboratory, CT, and other diagnostic testing, Watson Clinic Urgent Care is “an appealing, lower-cost alternative to an emergency room.” 2nd: Owl Now Urgent Care 3rd: Lakeland Regional Health Best Pediatric Care RAUL ALVAREZ, MD | LAKELAND REGIONAL HEALTH 430 E Central Avenue, Winter Haven (863) 284-5000 FB @LakelandRegionalHealth IG @lakelandregionalhealth Dr. Raul Alvarez attended medical school at the University of Puerto Rico/Medical Science Campus and completed his residency at Keesler Medical Center USAF Medical Center - Pediatrics. Certified by the American Board of Pediatrics, Dr. Alvarez has practiced Pediatrics for almost thirty years and joined the Lakeland Regional Health team in 2013 where he practices general pediatric care, as well as adolescent and young adult care. His patient care philosophy is, “I listen and observe patients’ needs before dispensing care or advice.” 2nd: Matthew J. Cory, MD, FAAP | Lakeside Pediatrics & Lakeland Regional Health 3rd: Kendra Velez Rodriguez, MD | Watson Clinic Best Eye Specialist/ Optometrist EYE SPECIALISTS OF MID-FLORIDA, P.A. 2004 Co Rd 540A, Lakeland (863) 937-4515 3350 Harden Blvd, Lakeland (863) 662-3010 FB @EyesFL IG @eyespecialistsmidfl eyesfl.com What started as a modest ophthalmology/ optometry practice in Downtown Winter Haven in the early 1960s, Eye Specialists of Mid-Florida, P.A. has grown into multiple locations offering specialized treatment throughout Central Florida. You don’t need glasses to see what makes Eye Specialists of Mid-Florida the Best Of LKLD (and Haven). They focus on personalized, high-quality eye care including ophthalmology, optometry, glaucoma, Lasik, laser surgery, treatment of cataracts, and eyelid lifts. Additionally, they carry a full range of eyeglass lenses and frames, contact lenses, sunglasses, frame repair, and optical accessories. According to Eye Specialists of Mid Florida, “Our commitment has always been to put our patients first and to provide the level of care our patients deserve.” 2nd: Eyes on Lakeland 3rd: Hubbell Eye Clinic Best Orthopedic Doctor PHUC VO, MD | WATSON CLINIC 1600 Lakeland Hills Blvd., Lakeland 863-680-7214 FB @watsonclinicfl IG @watson_clinic Watsonclinic.com Dr. Phuc Vo graduated from the University of Florida College of Medicine and did an internship, residency, and fellowship at the University of Florida as well as a fellowship at the University of Pennsylvania Sports Medicine Center. He joined Watson Clinic in 1994. His areas of expertise include arthroscopic surgery, minimally invasive surgery, computer navigation surgery, partial joint resurfacing, total joint replacement, ligament reconstruction, cartilage/meniscus repair and resection, fracture care, rotator cuff repair, surgical and non-surgical treatment of orthopedic and sports-related injuries (especially of the knees, shoulders, hips, elbows, and ankles), and orthopaedic services for patients ages two and up. 2nd: Obafunto Abimbola, MD, MPH | Watson Clinic 3rd: Paul M. Morin, MD, BSc, BMSc, FRCSC | Bond Clinic Best Dentist/ Orthodontist SCOTT ORTHODONTICS 5030 S Lakeland Dr, Lakeland (863) 709-1941 211 6th St SE, Winter Haven (863) 299-1261 FB @DrScottSmiles IG @scottortho scottsmiles.com Make an appointment with “The Smile Specialists” today! The board-certified orthodontists at Scott Orthodontics offer comprehensive orthodontic options for children, teens, and adults. Whether you’re in the market for traditional metal or clear ceramic braces, or more advanced appliances and braces like Invisalign, Damon Smile, Incognito hidden lingual braces, or InOvation C – Scott Orthodontics is sure to make you smile. Best Of LKLD voters trust their pearly whites to the dedicated team at Scott Orthodontics (so much so that they’ve won two years in a row)! 2nd: Thomas F. Plunkett, DMD 3rd: Paul Saari, DDS Best Rehabilitation Services CORA PHYSICAL THERAPY LAKELAND 3127 US Hwy 98 N, Lakeland (863) 665-8881 3317 US-98, Lakeland (863) 213-1291 FB @CORAPhysicalTherapy IG @corapt coraphysicaltherapy.com “A leader in physical therapy and occupational therapy,” CORA Physical Therapy focuses on communication to identify and achieve outcomes for their patients. They offer services including postsurgery rehabilitation, athletic training, pain management, neurological rehabilitation, back stabilization, work injury rehabilitation, senior rehabilitation, and more. One patient of the CORA Physical Therapy Lakeland location remarked, “Wonderful team of specialists that treat their patients like family. Would recommend to anyone that wants a friendly atmosphere while working to get better.” 2nd: Watson Clinic 3rd: Bond Clinic Physical Therapy Best Chiropractor LOVE CHIROPRACTIC CENTER 5227 US Hwy 98 S, Lakeland (863) 709-1600 FB @LoveChiropracticCenterFL IG @love_chiropractic lovechiropracticcenter.com Best Of LKLD voters are head over heels for this Lakeland-based chiropractor. You might even say they’re in Love! Drs. Steve and Tiffany Love and Dr. Chris Terry of Love Chiropractic work to address patient problems expediently and effectively with many patients noticing a difference in just a few visits. Love offers chiropractic services, auto injury treatment, and a host of specialized services. One patient testimonial reads, “I cannot say enough great things about Dr. Love and the entire staff. Always friendly and professional and will go out of their way to help you. By far the best chiropractic care and sports medicine care in Central Florida.” 2nd: Velocity Chiropractic & Rehabilitation 3rd: Advanced Spine & Wellness Best Vehicle Customization TUNES-N-TINT 4980 US Hwy 98 N, Lakeland (863) 617-7280 FB @TunesNTint IG @tunesntint tunesntint.com Time to tune-up your ride and not just the engine! Tunes-N-Tint is the place in Lakeland for everything to customize your car including car electronics, truck accessories, lighting products, leather interiors and window tinting. See what your new truck accessory will look like while perusing their fully functional displays showcasing nearly all of their products. Tunes-N-Tint prides themselves in friendly, knowledgeable, and Mobile Electronics Certified Professionals (MECP) staff including several MECP Advanced Installation Technicians and one MECP Master Installation Technician. “Fantastic help with understanding products and attention to detail. Fair to do business with too,” wrote one reviewer. 2nd: JC’s Customs 3rd: Mild 2 Wild Custom Accessories Best Oil Change TAKE 5 OIL CHANGE 5126 US Hwy 98 N, Lakeland (863) 274-2083 6059 Florida Ave S, Lakeland (863) 213-0089 FB @Take5OilChange IG @take5oilchange take5oilchange.com Boasting “the quickest oil change in Lakeland,” Take 5 Oil Change offers drivethru service with no appointment necessary. Home of the 10 minute oil change, all you have to do is pick your oil from the technician’s options, sit back and get your oil changed. Take 5’s expert technicians will change your oil and filter, replenish under-hood fluids, and check your air filter and wiper blades. One enthusiastic oil change recipient wrote in part, “This was hands down the best oil changing service in my entire life.” 2nd: Jiffy Lube 3rd: America’s Oil Express Best Storage Facility LIFE STORAGE 4400 US Hwy 98 N, Lakeland (863) 858-6464 FB @lifestorage2 IG @lifestorage lifestorage.com Have some excess baggage? Don’t we all. No matter the circumstances, when storing personal belongings, you want a storage unit that is safe, convenient, and you usually need it fairly quickly. What if you could rent a storage unit 100% contact free and get access to your unit today? At Life Storage, you can! Life Storage of Lakeland offers climate controlled storage, drive-up accessible storage, extended access hours, surveillance cameras, is fenced and lighted, offers vehicle/ boat parking, moving boxes and supplies, and hand carts and moving dollies. Life Storage customers say staff are informative, helpful, and dedicated to customer service. 2nd: Century Storage 3rd: Extra Space Storage Best Auto Repair WEBB’S BP SERVICES CENTER 2820 Florida Ave S, Lakeland (863) 686-5498 webbs-servicecenter.business.site Maybe it’s their all-work guarantee or that they staff Master ASE certified mechanics – whatever the reason, Best Of LKLD voters keep lauding Webb’s BP Services Center as the BEST place for auto repair around. If your check engine light pops on or your battery bites the dust, Webb’s has you covered! Is your AC wheezing or your power locks pooping out on you? They can take care of that too! Webb’s is a family-owned and operated complete automotive repair shop covering oil changes, tune-ups, and much more. 2nd: Levy’s Imperial Tire 3rd: Joyce Automotive Best Dry Cleaner GARMENT CARE PROS AT SOUTHSIDE CLEANERS 901 Florida Ave S, Lakeland (863) 688-4747 2117 Co Rd 540A, Lakeland FB @SouthsideCleaners IG @southsidecleaners garmentcarepros.com Which has been your favorite Southside Cleaners sign quippy quote this year? It’s hard for a dry cleaners to be iconic, but in Lakeland, Garment Care Pros at Southside Cleaners is just that. Since 1954, Southside Cleaners has provided Lakeland with the highest quality of care for their garments. Garment Care Pros at Southside Cleaners is one of the only eight companies in the world to have multiple employees pass the rigorous training to become a Certified Garment Care Professional. This team of literal garment care professionals offer traditional dry cleaning and laundry services as well as historic garment and wedding gown restoration. Best Of LKLD voters agree – there’s no one else they’d trust their wardrobes to. Congrats on winning again this year! 2nd: Regal Cleaners 3rd: Touch of Class Dry Cleaners Best Doggy Daycare ORCHID SPRINGS ANIMAL HOSPITAL 615 Overlook Dr, Winter Haven (863) 324-6964 FB @OrchidSpringsAnimalHospital IG @orchidspringsanimalhospital osahvets.com This one’s for the dogs! Your pup needs plenty of exercise, socialization, and puppy lovin’. The Doggy Daycare at Orchid Springs Animal Hospital (OSAH) offers standard and luxury pooch care services which include two potty breaks and one playtime or pool time session. According to OSAH, benefits of attending doggy daycare include making furry friends, becoming more comfortable around friends both two-legged and fourlegged, staying physically fit, and learning positive behavior to keep them out of trouble (and the trash) at home. 2nd: Das Hund Haus 3rd: Four Paws Only Best Wedding Venue HOLLIS GARDEN 702 E Orange St, Lakeland (863) 834-2280 www.lakelandgov.net/departments/parksrecreation/hollis-garden/ Picture saying ‘I do’ in a magical garden framing the view of a Lake Mirror sunset. Hollis Garden is a 1.2-acre formal botanical garden. Neoclassical architecture, public art, fountains, patterned flower beds and over 10,000 flowers, ornamental shrubs, and native trees are the elements that give Hollis Garden its charm. The garden’s beauty is inherent but polished, lending itself to nuptials both extravagant and understated as it can stand as the dreamy background or focal point of your big day. 2nd: Haus 820 3rd: Adams Estate Best Gym PLANET FITNESS 4315 Florida Ave S, Lakeland (863) 816-6800 6208 US Hwy 98 N, Lakeland (863) 853-3322 FB @planetfitness IG @planetfitness planetfitness.com Take your fitness to a whole other planet! Planet Fitness offers an out of this world gym experience and Judgement Free Zone in which anyone can feel comfortable approaching their fitness goals. Members get unlimited access to their home Planet Fitness club with more extensive memberships available. Take fitness into your own hands with the additional benefits of the PF Black Card or get extra guidance with their free fitness training. “It’s our goal to provide a clean, safe, welcoming environment for anyone who walks through our door, and all the equipment, amenities and support you need once you’re here.” 2nd: Crunch Fitness 3rd: The Balance Culture Best Dance Studio JUST DANCE ACADEMY OF DANCE AND ETIQUETTE 124 S Kentucky Ave, Lakeland (863) 940-4701 FB @JustWantToDance IG @smilejustdance smilejustdance.com “Smile, it’s just dance!” Just Dance takes the top spot for Dance Studio again! This “often imitated, but never duplicated” Downtown Lakeland dance studio teaches eager learners how to Waltz, Tango, Foxtrot, Rumba, Cha Cha, Swing and more through private lessons and group classes. Ensuring classes are safe, fun, and affordable, Just Dance has been promoting dance and the arts to the Lakeland community for some ten years. 2nd: Ultimate Dance Center 3rd: Southern Grace Dance Company Best Yoga Studio YOGA POINTE 2539 Florida Ave S, Lakeland (863) 937-8069 FB @YogaPointe IG @yoga_pointe yogapointe.com No ifs, ‘oms,’ or buts about it, Best Of LKLD voters prefer to find their inner peace at Yoga Pointe. This Lakeland yoga studio, located in the Southgate Shopping Center, offers beginner yoga, hot yoga, yin, flow, private sessions, yoga for the workplace, teacher training, and more. One happy yogi wrote of Yoga Pointe, “Fantastic environment. Every teacher is knowledgeable and patient. Classes for all levels including hot /warm yoga and you can register for classes online to ensure you have a spot. I highly recommend this studio.” 2nd: Just Dance Academy of Dance and Etiquette 3rd: The Balance Culture Best Yoga Instructor JOYCE PRESTON | JUST DANCE ACADEMY OF DANCE AND ETIQUETTE 124 S Kentucky Ave, Lakeland (863) 940-4701 FB @JustWantToDance IG @smilejustdance www.smilejustdance.com Lakeland yogis re’Joyce’! Best Of LKLD voters agree that Joyce Preston with Just Dance Academy of Dance and Etiquette is the BEST yoga instructor in the Swan City. For information on when you can get into the Goddess pose groove or perfect your Warrior II with Joyce Preston, visit the Just Dance website or give them a call! 2nd: Beth at Yoga Pointe 3rd: Marnie at Yoga Pointe Best CPA DIANE HERRINGTON, CPA, P.A. 202 Lake Miriam Dr # E8, Lakeland (863) 644-7125 FB @drhcpa dianeherringtoncpa.com Polk County native Diane R. Herrington has been working in the accounting field since 1970 and became a licensed CPA in Florida in 1980. Herrington founded her accounting firm in 1983, providing personalized services in tax preparation, tax planning, and business consulting services for individuals, businesses, estates, and trusts. Backed by decades of experience and detailed customer service, Diane Herrington’s customers often rave about her professionalism, quality, responsiveness, and the value of her services. 2nd: David R. Ramos, CPA 3rd: Brinton Fairchild Best Attorney LAURIANE CICCARELLI | TROIANO & ROBERTS, P.A. 317 S Tennessee Ave, Lakeland (863) 686-7136 ext 118 FB @TroianoRobertsPa troianolaw.com A 1996 Stetson University College of Law graduate, Lauriane Ciccarelli practices in the areas of Real Estate, Real Estate Planning, General Civil Litigation, and has been involved in thousands of Eminent Domain cases. She joined the firm, Troiano & Roberts, P.A. in March of 2004. A review of Ciccarelli’s services reads, “I am a Realtor and have been doing Real Estate since 2006 and I recommended them with one of my clients and Lauriane was very respectful and helpful and will use them again when needed.” 2nd: Scott H. Langston 3rd: Victor J. Troiano Best Bank MIDFLORIDA CREDIT UNION Multiple Locations FB @MIDFLORIDA IG @midflorida_creditunion midflorida.com What began as Polk County Teachers Credit Union in 1954, MIDFLORIDA has become Central Florida’s community credit union with nearly 65 branches. MIDFLORIDA is not-forprofit and member-owned, offering banking products and services from personal and business banking to loans, mortgages, and investing. MIDFLORIDA places importance on personal attention and competitive rates, “Because your money isn’t just a string of numbers on an account statement. It’s personal—and we think the way you bank should reflect that.” 2nd: Citizens Bank & Trust 3rd: SunTrust Bank Best Insurance Agent WAYNE PEACE 2325 S Florida Avenue, Lakeland (863) 688-8920 FB: Wayne Peace - State Farm Agent State Farm Insurance Agent Wayne Peace is a lifelong Lakeland resident. This former University of Florida starting quarterback #15 (1980-1983) and Team Captain (1983) has been representing State Farm, the US #1 Auto Insurer since 1987. Peace and his team offer services including auto, homeowners, and renters insurance, personal article policies, business insurance, life insurance, health insurance, banking, and annuities. 2nd: Buzz Tarver 3rd: Luetta Cain Best Veterinarian DORIAN LARA, DVM | SPCA FLORIDA 5850 Brannen Rd S, Lakeland (863) 646-7722 FB @SPCAFlorida IG @spca_florida spcaflorida.org A round of ap’paws’ for Dr. Dorian Lara, voted Best Veterinarian by our LKLD voters! Dr. Dorian Lara was welcomed to the SPCA Florida Medical Center Management Team in late 2019. As Director of Surgery, Dr. Lara oversees surgical procedures, advanced surgical equipment, and the highest standards of professional surgical care. “Dr. Lara brings extended skills and talent to expanded procedures and techniques that will benefit Polk County’s four-legged friends,” reads a November 5, 2019, SPCA Florida press release announcing his hiring. It appears Dr. Lara’s service to the SPCA has indeed been a benefit worth barking for! 2nd: Dr. Mitsie Vargas | Orchid Springs Animal Hospital 3rd: Dr. Holly Daniels | All Creatures Animal Clinic Best Spa BELLA VISÁGE MEDICAL & AESTHETIC REJUVENATION 119 Traders Alley, Lakeland (863) 333-0553 FB @BellaVisageLakeland IG @bellavisagelkld bellavisagelakeland.com Take some time for yourself – you deserve it! Prepare to unwind at Bella Viságe with services from health and wellness, body contouring, medical rejuvenation, and laser tattoo removal, to laser hair removal, feminine health, aesthetician services, and massage therapy. They also carry several lines of beauty, skincare, and home products including Skinade, a “natural peach, and mangosteen flavored anti-aging collagen drink,” body care line Farmhouse Fresh, Swan City Chandlery small batch 100% soy wax candles, and more. 2nd: DayDreams Day Spa 3rd: Pura Vie Holistic Studio Best Hair Salon VENUE SALON 5035 S Lakeland Dr, Lakeland (863) 644-0102 FB @venueaveda IG @venuelakeland venuesalon.com Are you ready to achieve your hair goals? Venue is an Aveda Concept Salon offering hair, skincare, and waxing services using eco-friendly products, innovative techniques, and sustainability standards. Whether you’re looking for a cut, color, highlights, extensions, and beyond – Venue stylists have you covered. Show your stylist hair inspo and tell them about your hair, and according to Venue, “We’ll listen and share the smartest ways to get your hair looking healthy, happy, and beautiful.” 2nd: Studio 323 3rd: Blushing Blondes Salon Best Barber SKULLYS BARBER SALON 434 W Pipkin Rd, Lakeland (863) 224-3507 FB @skullysbarbersalon IG @skullysbarbersalon skullysbarbersalon.com “With a tank of gas and a dream, he created Florida’s first, and so far only, mobile barber salon.” Skully founded his hair biz doing house calls in 2015 and opened his mobile barbershop out of a 32-foot RV in 2016. Voters showed up AGAIN this year to scream that Skullys is the BEST! Now, this mobile barber has a physical location on W. Pipkin Road in Lakeland. Need a haircut, color, styling, or beard trim? Skully’s got you! One review of his barbershop reads in part, “Skully can do hair for young and old, from trim to fades, he has the skills to make you look & feel good.” 2nd: Kirkland’s Barber Shop 3rd: Lakeland Barber Company Best Nail Salon NOIRE SPA & NAILS 3540 Harden Blvd Ste 107, Lakeland (863) 738-2868 FB @NoireSpaNailslakeland Treat yourself! From basic mani/pedis to extravagant styles and designs, Noire Spa & Nails can do it all. They offer monthly promotions and customers rave about their cleanliness, attention to detail, and the relaxing experience they provide. One customer (with freshly done nails) wrote, “Very clean, the technician who did my nails took her time and was very thorough. She also did my eyebrows which turned out fantastic. Now I have two favorite nail salons. Make sure to get the member card for the discount on your future visits!” 2nd: United Nails & Spa 3rd: Van Spa & Nails Best Dog Groomer LOVE AN FLUFF DOG GROOMING 1015 E County Rd 540A, Lakeland (863) 646-5445 FB @loveanfluffdoggrooming loveanfluff.com Is your Bichon Frise overdue for a blowout? Terrier in need of a trim? LKLD voters are in puppy love with Love An Fluff Dog Grooming AGAIN this year! One pleased dog mom wrote, “Love this place and so does my Rexi! He won’t let very many people near him but loves the staff here, to me that says a lot! Won’t ever go anywhere else.” Established in 1970, Love An Fluff backs their bark-worthy service with over 50 years in business and is family-owned. They are an all-breed grooming business with “excellent employees who will take care of your pet and make you feel welcomed.” 2nd: Doggie Divas Grooming Salon 3rd: Four Paws Only Best Wedding Planner PERFECT DAY PRODUCTIONS (863) 608-1945 FB @pdpweddings IG @pdpweddings pdpweddings.com Planning a wedding can be overwhelming. Let certified wedding planner, Lora B. Gardner help you make your day perfect! Perfect Day Productions is a full-service wedding and event planning company with the goal to “bring your vision to life through professional hands-on planning customized to fit your individual needs.” Perfect Day Productions offers three packages to fit the needs of any bride and groom including a “Day of Coordination” package called ‘Down the Aisle,’ a partial planning package called ‘From This Day Forward,’ and ‘Knee to Knot’ for full-service wedding planning and coordination. PDP couples have nothing but great things to say about Lora and her team. Congratulations on your big day, and happy planning! 2nd: Ashton Events 3rd: 2 Sisters Events & Design Best Wedding Photographer SUNGLOW PHOTOGRAPHY FB @SunglowPhotography IG @sunglowphoto (863) 510-8702 sunglowphotography.com There’s nothing sweeter than looking back on photos from your wedding day! Dustin with Sunglow Photography has an eye for capturing every ear-to-ear grin, happy tear, excited pre-wedding jitters, and that once in a lifetime down the aisle moment. A look through his portfolio is a look into the happiest day of his client’s lives and they have nothing but compliments for his work. One bride’s review reads in part, “We hired Dustin to do our engagement photos and wedding photos. We were not disappointed either time. We have gotten so many compliments on the quality and style of the photos. Dustin captured the elegant and timeless look we were hoping for.” 2nd: Petal and Vine Photography 3rd: Anthony Scott Best Event Entertainment Company DREAMS COME TRUE ENTERTAINMENT 214 Traders Alley, Lakeland (863) 944-1264 FB @DreamsComeTrueEntertainment IG @dctemagicalmemories dreamscometrueentertainment.com Can you imagine the excited ‘eeeeks’ and giggles when Cinderella saunters into your child’s birthday party? Dreams Come True Entertainment can make sure she will bippity boppity be there! With high-quality, fun, and unique character entertainment for all ages, Dreams Come True creates magic for little ones with the chance to meet their favorite fairytale or superhero characters. You can book experienced actors in award-winning costumes for your next birthday party, shower, or corporate event. Follow their social media to keep up to date on the magical character events held regularly at Enchanted Fairytale Hollow! 2nd: Graingertainment 3rd: Fun Factory Inflatables

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