In the bright yellow building on Avenue A, formerly Bryant Home Gallery Marketplace, Bao and Lena Nguyen bake ‘a lot of happiness’ by way of fresh bread and authentic Vietnamese recipes to make their ‘Dang Good’ bami (banh mi). The couple lives in Lakeland, where they moved from California two years earlier. “We originated from Vietnam, so we’re very familiar [with banh mi]. In California where we lived, there’s banh mi all over the place,” said Bao, adding that five or six banh mi shops would compete within one city. “When we came to the Lakeland/ Winter Haven area, we were quite surprised because there’s no banh mi here,” he said. So the couple decided to open a Vietnamese sandwich shop in Polk County. When they set out to open their banh mi or ‘bami’ shop, Bao said, “We want to make it exactly the way Vietnamese people make it.” One distinction between a traditional Vietnamese banh mi and the Western version is the bread. Here, many shops offer a baguette bun, which according to Bao, is not how the Vietnamese make it. “We took a trip back to Vietnam right before COVID. We took classes over there to try to understand the beauty of why they’re making it and what makes it so popular. We brought the recipe over here,” he said. Bao and Lena first looked to open their Vietnamese sandwich shop in Lakeland, closer to where they live. “Lots of our friends recommended the Downtown Winter Haven area,” Bao said. “We heard a lot of good things about the area, and the price is better as well. So, we decided to go with our first shop over here.” Throughout 2020, they tested recipes and offered catering to businesses, taking in feedback and improving their product along the way. Bao and Lena started renovations on their Downtown Winter Haven sandwich spot in January 2021. “We were hoping to get to Winter Haven sooner, but it took us a while to get the place done. Finally, we got done in August,” Bao said. They began a BL Sandwich soft opening on August 18 and hope to have a grand opening in mid-November. BL Sandwich is short for the establishment’s full title, Bách Lac Bakery. Bao said, “In Asian Vietnamese meaning, Bách means ‘a lot’ and Lac means ‘happiness.’ So the name basically means ‘a lot of happiness.’” The B and L also stand for the couple’s initials – Bao and Lena. “We wanted to bring a little bit of everything,” Bao said of their menu. The traditional and most popular among Vietnamese folks is their number one, Combination Bami. The special Vietnamese style sandwich is served with Vietnamese jambon, pork roll, head cheese, pate, daikon radish, pickled carrot, cucumber, cilantro, and jalapeno. “In Vietnam, they don’t have green jalapeno like we have it here. They use a tiny Vietnamese chili that’s super spicy. I didn’t want to introduce it just yet because I’m afraid it’s too spicy.” Bao says iron-palate customers curious about the piquant pepper can request it on their BL Sandwich to enjoy it the way the Vietnamese do. The recipe for this sandwich hails straight from Vietnam, and Lena does all the cooking. According to Bao, the banh mi is a French-inspired sandwich of which the Vietnamese adapted the French baguette baking style for a lighter, more airy bread with a crispy outer crust. “The outside needs to be grilled crunchy and stay crunchy for a while. The inside not only has to be soft but also needs to be fluffy,” he said, adding that Vietnamese people continue to develop different shapes and forms of this bread, which BL plans to introduce to their customers in the future. “When you open the bread, there’s steam coming out, and that’s how Vietnamese people developed it that makes it stand out from other bread. It’s a challenge to replicate that bread,” Bao added. He and Lena make their bread fresh, in-house, and from scratch every day. They stay in touch with their culinary teachers in Vietnam, with whom they have regular video calls to continue improving the craft. The BL Sandwich menu has a little something for everyone. If a Combination Bami isn’t your speed, they offer grilled pork, grilled chicken, meatball, Char Siu (barbecue pork), sardine, and vegan bami sandwiches. “We have special sauces for each of them as well. We have a special meat sauce for grilled pork, grilled chicken, and for the meatball, we have our own sauce too,” Bao said. “We bring in some creativity with it like the sausage and egg, which is my favorite.” The Nguyen’s stay up to date on the culinary goings-on of Vietnam to bring new styles and recipes into their shop. “In the future, we’re looking to bring more specialties, which is one of the things other shops won’t have. That’s because we actually go back there [to Vietnam], and the bami in Vietnam is constantly evolving, and they’re bringing new recipes every day.” One such specialty is roasted pork with crispy skin. “Until now, I didn’t know of any shop in Florida that did it, but we’ll bring it as a special,” he said. In addition to their bangin’ bami, BL Sandwich offers pastries, snacks, and beverages like Tiger Sugar Milk with Boba, Lychee Tea with Boba, and Vietnamese Coffee with Condensed Milk. The BL Sandwich shop owners have utilized their first few months of a soft opening as a learning and growing period. “We always ask for feedback, and the more we improve it, we see the more positive a customer responds to it,” said Bao of their food. The couple pride themselves on listening to customer feedback and working to improve their food constantly. One change they made per customer feedback was increasing the size of their fresh buns. When we spoke, Bao and Lena were working on their website, ordering app, menu, and reward program to further elevate the customer experience. “I know life is busy, and people need a quick grab and go, and something fresh, nice, and delicious as well. We want to make it easier for people,” said Bao. Follow BL Sandwich’s social media for details on a grand opening date, specials, and more! BL Sandwich 260 Ave A SW, Winter Haven (863) 229-5507 blsandwich.com FB: BL Sandwich IG @blsandwichf Photography by Amy Sexson

Even with your head in the books, it would be hard not to appreciate the art on the walls of Downtown Lakeland’s independent bookstore, Pressed Books & Coffee. Each piece is the work of a local artist, presented by Vakti Gallery, an online art gallery started by Lakelander Olivia Overholt. Through the online gallery, monthly pop-up shows, and wall space at Pressed, the Vakti Gallery owner and gallery director aims to connect the community to fine art. The gallery’s mission is “To provide a space where local artists can be recognized and where the quality and power of their creations can be felt.” Overholt was born and raised in Lakeland. After graduating from Lakeland Christian School, she attended Anderson University in South Carolina, majoring in graphic design. Overholt moved home after college at the height of the pandemic. Though Overholt majored in graphic design, she is an artist at heart. She enjoys the hands-on, messy aspect of creating something like her woodblock prints, carved out entirely by hand. “It’s good to not stare at the screen for a while,” she laughed. The artist also has an affinity for acrylic paint and charcoal. “If my hands aren’t dirty at the end of it, it’s not worth it for me,” she said. Back home in Lakeland, she began looking for a place to sell her art but couldn’t find one. Unable to find an accessible art scene, Overholt decided to open her own gallery – with a bit of a twist. “I was looking for a place to sell my art but couldn’t find one,” she said. “When I decided to open the gallery, I wanted to do it for other artists who needed a place to sell their art.” She had the community in mind too. “I wanted to make sure that people who do come in – whether it’s for college or because it’s not cold here, or to be closer to the beach – whatever reason they move here, that they have an easier way of finding that art scene,” she said. On December 1, 2020, Overholt launched her online art gallery, which she named Vakti Gallery. Of the endeavor, Overholt smiled and said, “When I was in college, I used to look at the painting majors and think they were insane because they were going to spend their whole life trying to sell art. Then I graduated, and now I’m doing the same thing.” The gallery director spent quite a bit of time choosing a name for the digital and pop-up space to represent local artists. “I chose Vakti because it does have a root word that means something. It comes from the Sanskrit root word for ‘speech.’ I believe that all art is a way to express yourself. Even if it’s abstract and you think it doesn’t mean anything, it does. [...] I decided that all art, more than being a part of you, is what you’re saying.” For the artist and gallery owner, Vakti in name and practice is “listening to local artists, not just using their art for decoration.” In Vakti Gallery’s infancy, Overholt connected with her high school art teacher Kari Clever for advice. “There’s only so much I know, and I was willing to admit that,” Overholt said. She learned about sourcing artists, pricing, shipping, and other art gallery ins and outs. One of the first to join Vakti Gallery was fine artist Seungdo Hyun. “I was super excited because he’s well known,” said Overholt. “I was very appreciative.” Another artist early to Vakti’s digital gallery and a valuable resource for Overholt was former high school classmate, Rebekah Firmin who creates art and illustrations as Mockingbird Artist. “I was able to talk to her and use her as a resource because she has been in Lakeland selling art since before I moved back from college. It was good to find someone who does sell art and knows which avenues work and don’t work,” said the gallery director. Vakti Gallery currently has around 150 pieces of art, photography, sculptures, and mixed media online and available for purchase. The gallery represents 22 artists, including Olivia Overholt, that are based in Central Florida from Lake Wales, Orlando, Winter Haven, Clearwater, and Lakeland. Vakti brings fine art by local artists before the community through an online gallery medium, pop-up shows, and a rotating selection of art at Pressed Books & Coffee. “It’s good here for exposure,” Overholt said of the Pressed gallery space. “The amount of people who have come up to me while I’m working and said, ‘Hey, who do I talk to about art on the walls?’ It’s been insane.” What’s next for Vakti Gallery? “I would love to have a physical location,” said Overholt. “But in the meantime, in the next few years, the pop-up shows are fantastic. I love having them. It’s so much fun.” The next pop-up show will be on November 20 from 5-9 pm at LKLD Live, followed by a Christmas Show at a local residence on December 11 from 5-8 pm. Check the website for address details for the December show. The next time you’re in Pressed or shopping Vakti Gallery’s website and a piece of art speaks to you, keep Vakti’s meaning in mind, and listen. Vakti Gallery vaktigallery.com FB @vaktigallery IG @vaktigallery Photograph by Amy Sexson

History and haunts are at the center of Winter Haven Food Tours’ newest tour option, Winter Haven Beer, Spirits, and Ghosts Walking Tour. We spoke with Auburndale resident and owner/ guide of Winter Haven Food Tours, Amada Anderson, about food, phantoms, and what led her to start her Downtown tour company. Anderson is a licensed and certified Tour Guide and Tour Director with a bachelor’s degree in Music and Theatre from the University of Miami. She worked for a decade in New York as a tour guide, first with a ghost tour company before starting her own New York Broadway Tours a year later. Anderson has worked on Broadway for Disney as a guide inside the New Amsterdam Theatre and ran a non-profit called Thrill The World NYC for seven years, teaching Michael Jackson’s Thriller dance for world records and charity. She currently volunteers as the secretary to the National Federation of Tourist Guides Association. In addition to Winter Haven Food Tours, she and her husband operate a dog walking company called Story Tails Dog Walking. According to Anderson’s ‘About Me’ section on the Winter Haven Food Tours website, “The running joke is he walks dogs, and I walk people.” The Andersons moved from New York to the Sunshine State in April of 2019. The couple wanted to take care of Amada’s mother and start a family. As the owner of her own New Yorkbased tour business, she was traveling a lot already. She figured she could move here and still travel as needed. “With that idea and the fact that my husband would not have to shovel snow in January around his birthday every year – we moved.” WINTER HAVEN FOOD TOURS Anderson took a position as an executive assistant for the City of Winter Haven and grew to appreciate the area through her work, especially during lunchtime. “Winter Haven is so cool,” she said. “Winter Haven is so entrepreneurial and community-oriented.” The former New York tour guide thought Winter Haven needed a downtown tour of its own. The idea nagged at Anderson. “I started looking around, and I was like, wait a minute, there’s a Thai spot, there’s sushi, there’s a Mexican spot, there’s an Italian spot, there’s coffee,” she said. “I’ve given a couple of food tours in Little Italy in New York, but when I saw that we had on-route an olive oil store, it all clicked, and I said, ‘I will do a food tour!’” Anderson and her husband welcomed their baby in June of 2020. In December, she put her idea into motion, joined the Greater Winter Haven Chamber of Commerce in January, and opened Winter Haven Food Tours for business on March 1, 2021. The Winter Haven walking tour company offers everything from brunch tours to sweet tooth and happy hour tours. Anderson says many of her clientele are tourists from Orlando looking for things to do in the area around Legoland. After taking a tour and learning more about the city, visitors will often stay to eat, drink, and shop at local establishments. “I’ve been very thankful that everyone has been so supportive,” Anderson said of the community support she’s received for her tour company. GHOULS AND GRAPEFRUIT BASIL MARTINIS With Spooky Season upon us and having given ghost tours in the Big Apple, Anderson wanted to offer something similar here. “I’ve always been pretty sensitive to energies,” she said. As we sat outside discussing her spectral experiences, a lamp flickered on and off. Spirit or electrical short? You be the judge. Anderson told of a scare she had in America’s oldest and purportedly most haunted city, St. Augustine. On a trip to the Old City, she visited America’s Oldest Wooden Schoolhouse. While filming the popular tourist spot, she felt a child run up and hug her. “You know how little kids run up and give you a hug, and they’re so short that you can feel them grab at you? It was so real. I walked in, some little kid came running up and gave me a hug on my thigh.” She remembers saying, ‘No, I’m sorry, kid. I’m not your mom.’ “I looked down – nothing there.” Anderson shared this and more tales on the Winter Haven Beer, Spirits, and Ghost Walking Tour. This two-and-a-half-hour guided walking tour of Downtown Winter Haven includes visits to historical sites, stories about familiar Winter Haven figures, including Gram Parsons, Gene Leedy, and George Jenkins, along with stops to sample food and drink at several Downtown dining destinations. This particular tour is 21+ as the focus was on spirits in more than one sense of the word. (Anderson does offer a tour for little ones with a Halloween twist called Trick or Treat and Tasting Sweets Ghost Walking Tour.) Our first haunting jaunt for bites and booooooze was at Tempo 1930. While there, we cheers’ed Maple Walnut Old Fashioneds and swapped ghost stories over loaded truffle fries and beef and short rib meatballs. Sprinkled throughout our evening walk were spooky stories, videos, and not-so-scary pro tips like where to get the best fried green tomatoes in town. If you plan to take a Winter Haven Food Tour, be sure to wear comfortable shoes, stay hydrated, and let your tour guide know of any food allergies or restrictions. Visit the Winter Haven Food Tours website below for dates and details on more tasty tours. (863) 288-0038 FB @winterhavenfoodtours IG @winterhavenfoodtours winterhavenfoodtours.com Photograph by Amy Sexson

Today, in the culmination of three friends’ backyard barbecue epiphany five years earlier, I sat inside Adler’s new Winter Haven burger spot, watching owner Jacki Walston frame pieces of flamingo and palm print wallpaper. It was extra from their Davenport shop now slated to hang in their new digs. That epiphany was about a burger food truck. Husband and wife Wade and Jacki Walston and friend Jeremiah Waters started Adler’s food truck in 2016, working small gigs at first. The name was an ode to Jacki and Wade’s son, Sheriff Adler Walston, only a year old at the time. Dino nuggets were first added and remain on the menu for Sheriff, who just turned six. Jacki said, “I feel like now we can’t take it off because so many parents know that they can bring their kids here and feed them that.” The trio hustled with the food truck for about eight months when they were presented with the opportunity to open a brick-andmortar. It all started in the alley next to their Davenport burger joint. They became the smash patty fix for the late-night crowd of the adjacent Paddy Wagon Irish Pub, which Wade, Jacki, and Jeremiah worked at for a time. To be respectful to the other local businesses, Adler’s wouldn’t set up their truck until after 10 pm. Their success didn’t go unnoticed by other eateries in the plaza, and the food truck owners were ordered to cease and desist. The pub owners saw the advantage of having Adler’s available to their customers and threw out an offer for the space across the alley. They opened their flagship Davenport location in 2017. “If it wasn’t for us getting kicked out, we probably wouldn’t be sitting at this table currently,” said Wade at our first interview in 2019. Well, if it weren’t for getting kicked out and their legendary burgers, of course. TOTAL BURGER BADASSES Ask Wade Walston, a California native where to find the best burger on the west coast, and without skipping a beat, he’ll tell you In-N-Out Burger. In the same 2019 interview, Wade said, “We weren’t trying to reinvent the wheel, we were just looking for a missing spoke. Currently, there’s not any one place in Florida known for having the best burger. […] Florida has a lot of fantastic burger franchises and local mom and pops, but no definitive good one. We’re trying to fill that void.” Now, Florida does have a definitive best burger – Adler’s. It all starts with the bun. The three owners spent plenty of time, in the beginning, trying different buns to procure the perfect vessel for their burgers. They found an artisan bakery out of Coconut Creek, Florida, called Cusano’s Bakery. Cusano’s has been family-owned and operated since 1966, with over 100 years of bread baking tradition passed down through the generations. Wade described their bread as “wildly old school, a fantastic product.” Sitting atop this magnificent bun is their all-beef, no B.S. smash patty. The burger consists of nothing but quality, Midwest, high-fat content ground beef. “There’s no filler in it, there’s no craziness, there’s no Ribeye steak in there,” said Wade. “We like our steaks an inch and a half thick, and we like our burgers with a lot of fat and smashed.” “Hamburgers are an American classic,” said Wade. “We do our best to not overcomplicate it.” Their opus (and number one bestseller by far) reflects that mantra. The Adler’s Classic Burger is dressed with lettuce, tomatoes, pickles, onion, mustard, mayonnaise, ketchup, and a slice of American cheese. Though the partners all contributed to their minimal, flavorpacked menu, Jacki Walston – who studied culinary arts at Le Cordon Bleu – is the creative genius behind their weekly specials. The pun-laden, campy names are reason enough to make you want to skip your usual and try something new. “I think the beauty of a burger is you can put just about anything on it, and it’s always great. Think ‘little black dress’ of the food world,” she said. The fast-casual eatery offers combos with a burger, hand-cut fries, and Fountainhead Gourmet Craft Sodas. “I think part of our success is that we don’t have an overcomplicated menu,” said Jeremiah. Today, the tried and true menu remains with the addition of beer, including local brews from Grove Roots Brewing Company, as well as baked goods made by Oh For Fork Sake. Guests can polish off their meal with a changing selection of goodies like peach and pecan cobbler topped with cinnamon whipped cream frosting, a pina colada (layers of chocolate chip cookie, coconut caramel cookie, and chocolate brownie topped with pina colada frosting and candied pineapple), or a peanut butter cup (layers of peanut butter cookie, peanut butter cups and chocolate brownie topped with chocolate peanut butter frosting and another peanut butter cup). CLASSIC BURGER, CLASSIC VIBES You couldn’t tell now after its complete burger beautification, but this time last year, the lot where Adler’s now sits was home to a drab warehouse framed by overgrown grass. But Jacki had a vision for it. The unfinished concrete floor, subway tile backsplash, and wall-length window looking into the kitchen are just what Jacki envisioned for the space. “I don’t know how they pulled it off or out of my brain, but they did it. It’s amazing how good Six/Ten and Whitehead Construction are,” she said. Adler’s atmosphere is like the food they serve – classic. Their allAmerican, local burger joint vibe is authentic down to the details, like the wooden picnic tables out front, crafted by the Fort Meade High School shop class and the Adler’s logo mural by local artist Cassie Travis. According to Jeremiah, “The whole awning is repurposed from Winter Haven.” Its trusses are from the arcade, with beams from a carwash down the street. ‘BERMUDA TRIANGLE OF FOOD’ Adler’s opened in Winter Haven on August 27 with a sizable community reception. “It’s been humbling and overwhelming,” said Jacki of their first few weeks in business. Jeremiah added, “We expected it to be big, but I don’t think any of us anticipated that much.” The community was in such smash-patty suspense of Adler’s grand opening date that Winter Haven flocked with a fury for burgers and hand-cut fries when they finally announced it. The new restaurant had to temporarily close early, not for lack of product or preparation, but the sheer capacity of orders. “We weren’t expecting Winter Haven to bring it like that, but it totally got brought,” Jacki laughed. Jeremiah added, “We did more in sales twice here than we’ve done ever in Davenport. It’s been monstrous.” That’s thanks to their customers and their backbone employees, say the owners. “We’ve got a solid staff, and we’re very fortunate for that,” Jeremiah said. The Adler’s staff stayed with them through the pandemic and helped to open the Winter Haven shop. The opening of Adler’s comes just weeks after that of their neighbor, Honeycomb Bread Bakers. “Thankfully, I’m working so many hours, or my pants wouldn’t fit,” Jeremiah said of working next to Honeycomb, which they frequent. “I love that this little corner has life now,” Jacki said of Adler’s, Honeycomb, and The Smokin’ OX. “We’ve got our own little Bermuda Triangle of food. [...] Our own little Restaurant Row.” And Jacki’s right, the fare within that ‘Bermuda Triangle of food’ is so good you might wander in and never leave. With two brick-and-mortar locations and a food truck, what’s next for the expanding burger empire? World domination? Perhaps. “We always say ‘No,’ and then an opportunity comes up and we’re like, ‘Why say no when it feels so good to say yes?’” said Jeremiah. “We’re excited to be here,” said Jacki. “As long as Winter Haven will have us, forever and a day, we’ll stay.” 113 Ambersweet Way, Davenport | (863) 438-4324 543 Ave B SW, Winter Haven | (863) 875-6615 FB @Adlers.TCB IG @adlerstcb adlersburgers.com Photography by Amy Sexson

“Goodnight, Mister Fish and Polk Museum of Art, too. Goodnight, Library. See you at storytime soon.” – Goodnight Lakeland By Ida Mundell and Josh “Bump” Galletta Have you read Lakeland’s unofficial bedtime story, Goodnight Lakeland? The children’s book, penned by Ida Mundell and illustrated by Josh “Bump” Galletta, is an ode to the Swan City and a perfect local gift for the upcoming holiday season. Mundell and her husband, Nate, have four kids: Aurora, Eleanor, Ezra, and August. The homeschool mom of four is also a children’s Kids Pastor at Access Church. The family moved to Lakeland about 20 years ago. Galletta and his wife Mary have two kids, Emmersyn and Fynn. He is a commercial artist and illustrator with artwork in places like Starbucks and Haus 820. Ida and Bump met several years ago through her store, A Kind Place, formerly in Dixieland. “It was all fair trade, give back, and locally made,” said Mundell of the retail concept she plans to start back again when she isn’t busy homeschooling her children. Looking for more local artists to feature in A Kind Place, Mundell said, “I mustered the courage to ask Bump if he would put art in my shop.” It was one of the first retail spots Galletta sold his art. The two families became fast friends and shared a connection of art and community. The thought to write a children’s book first occurred to Mundell while on vacation in 2018. “I called him immediately because I wouldn’t want anyone else to draw it,” she said. Galletta started sketches after their initial phone call. As it often goes, the two got busy with life and shelved the project. Last summer, looking to produce something positive in such tumultuous times, Galletta’s wife, Mary, encouraged them to finish it. “I made it a goal where every day I focused on one page and sent it to Ida,” said Galletta. In November 2020, they finished Goodnight Lakeland and selfpublished the book. It was delivered the week after Thanksgiving. Goodnight Lakeland sold out by Christmas last year, and when they had a book signing on August 21 at Pressed, they sold out within a day. A BOOK OF GOOD MEMORIES Goodnight Lakeland is about nostalgic and significant locations around the city, accompanied by Bump’s signature black and white illustrations. Mundell said, “The book is full of our favorite traditions and memories. […] It’s an ode to our families’ favorite things. Lakeland is special. People love the place of Lakeland and feeling at home everywhere they go, and that’s the vibe of the book, what we wanted it to be.” “Home and place are important, I think. […] Feeling placement, feeling like you can walk in somewhere and somebody knows who you are. Being seen, known, and loved is verbiage I use through my ministry and with my own family and everywhere. The book is a little extension of that,” Mundell said. “I think it’s really important that you have a place in a world where everything is changing.” Subjects of the book include everything from Circle B Bar Reserve to Silvermoon Drive-in and everything in between. Bump said he drew the Sputnik Tower because that was the first recognizable landmark to his family when they first moved to the city. Every page is filled with words and drawings of memories and traditions for Mundell and Galletta. “I’m not from Lakeland. It took me a while to get used to it when I first moved here twelve years ago. It slowly became a place we loved,” Galletta said. Lakeland has become home to the family, and Galletta said it is special to tell its story with Mundell’s words and his drawings. “It’s fun that she asked me to do it,” he said. The Goodnight Lakeland author and illustrator often receive pictures of grandparents reading it to their grandchildren, kids carrying it around town, realtors gifting it to new homeowners, and parents sending it to their children going to college out of state. They’ve also heard from the parents of children with autism who say their kids love to carry the book and match it to their surroundings around the city. “They share those stories, and that means everything when they take the time, and they’re so excited to say, ‘Our kid loves this book,’ or ‘We read it every night,’ or ‘That’s the book they pick off the bookshelf,’” said Mundell. Galletta said, “People will say, ‘This is where we got married,’ or ‘This is where we met.’ I’ve had a lot of fun encounters hearing those stories.” And of course, Galletta, who often hides free artwork for people around town and places he travels, hid a few ‘Easter eggs’ in Goodnight Lakeland too. If you find one, tell Bump! “I like to wait and see if anyone’s discovered them,” he said. The project inspired Galletta’s daughter to make a book of her own, a creative process he’s been working with her on. HOW YOU CHANGE THE WORLD Alongside Goodnight Lakeland, Mundell and Galletta collaborated with Lakeland-based handmade accessory company East of These to create a baby blanket featuring Galletta’s black and white artwork. You can pick up one of these adorable gifts at any pop-up markets that Galletta attends, including Buena Market and Haus MRKT, or on his website (hurry, amounts are limited). Mundell thought about her bookish breakout and said, “Something I tell my kids and something I have to remind myself of is that it’s okay to be a beginner. […] I think there’s so much anxiety in the creative world that you have to be there already, that you have to know everything, that you have to have every answer.” She continued, “We stop the process from ever beginning, and that makes me sad because how many great things are we missing out on? I would take an all heart, beginner product over someone who thinks they are the best of the best all the time. I like the hustle and the heart and the passion behind the project.” For Bump, the success of their grassroots, self-published book was a reassurance of community love. “It shows how much the community does care for each other,” he said. Follow their social media for future opportunities to meet the Goodnight Lakeland author and illustrator. They plan to read their book during storytime at Pressed. Bump will have copies available at the many holiday markets he’ll be attending. Expect more projects from the duo (perhaps even something in color) in the future. Mundell said, “I do love writing and communicating, and I love storytelling. I love listening to storytelling. I love sharing stories. I think that is how you change the world if you can share captivating stories and invite people to listen.” You can pick up a copy of Goodnight Lakeland at Pressed Books & Coffee, Galletta’s upcoming pop-up markets, or his website, www.bumpgalletta.com. Goodnight Lakeland Author: Ida Mundell FB: Ida Mundell IG @idamundell Illustrator: Bump Galletta bumpgalletta.com FB: Bump Galletta IG @bumpgalletta Photograph by Amy Sexson

The 10th Annual Polk Emerging Leaders Awards were held on August 19th. While the event itself was a little different this year following COVID protocols, it was nonetheless a night to celebrate and honor the work that young professionals are doing to improve Polk County. The 2021 winners are Lauren Jensen, Dr. Andy Oguntola, Brian Yates, Sara Beth Reynolds, and Dr. Michelle Henne. We also honored Katie Worthington Decker with the Polk Emerging Leaders Visionary Award for all of her work to start these programs and give opportunities for the young professionals of Polk County to be recognized for their commitment to their communities. Lauren Jensen Lauren Jensen (Sessums Law Group P.A.) graduated with her Bachelor of Arts in Sociology from the University of Kentucky in 2010 and later would receive her Juris Doctor from the University of Florida Levin College of Law in 2013. As a family law attorney and a mother of three, she has learned the many facets of true leadership and lives it out daily. It’s through her time with local organizations and local leaders that she has had the chance to learn what it takes to be a leader. Because of their influence and her dedication, she has risen in the ranks and is now serving as the Vice Chair of the Board of Directors of Explorations V Children’s Museum and has been actively involved as they have launched their new brand, Florida Children’s Museum and built their new location at Bonnet Springs Park. She has also served as Community Vice President of the Junior League of Greater Lakeland. During the pandemic, she had to step up to the plate to ensure that the organizations she serves, were able to continue to serve Lakeland. She acted as the liaison between the Junior League and the Adopt a School initiative to house PPE supplies for schools at her home, while securing volunteer League members to facilitate distribution of the supplies to schools. In her service to Explorations V Children’s Museum, she assisted in making decisions about their finances, as the doors of the facility were closed to the public. Now, as Florida Childrens Museum prepares to move to its new location to Bonnet Springs Park, she will be leading the charge on their membership initiatives for the new facility. When she isn’t volunteering her time and talents to organizations like United Way of Central Florida, Florida Bar Family Law Section, and Lake Morton Community Church, you can find her taking a run with her kids, practicing yoga and serving those who are underprivileged at Lighthouse Ministries or the George Harris Youth Shelter. Dr. Andy Oguntola Dr. Andy Oguntola (Polk State College) graduated from Webber International University with his Bachelor of Science in Business Administration and his Masters of Business Administration. He then went on to Nova Southeastern University, where he received his Doctorate in Higher Educational Leadership in 2019. Currently, he is the Director of Polk State College’s JD Alexander Center, where he works to develop relationships with community leaders and educational institutions. While his position encompasses various duties, he coordinates services for students with disabilities and provides programming that meets the needs of faculty, staff, students, and business partners. One of the most satisfying moments of his career was when he stepped up to make an impact in education for Lake Wales students. Year after year, students would inform him that they were unable to go to college due to their family members being unfamiliar with the college admissions process. He heard a problem and did the work to find a solution. In 2015, he created a strategic plan to create a high school college fair for Lake Wales. He made a plan, presented it to the Superintendent of the Lake Wales Charter Schools and, while everyone loved the idea, they were unsure it could be accomplished. After three months of this recipient making calls, meeting with educators, and putting in the work, he saw this plan come to fruition. Today, the Lake Wales College Fair is one of the largest fairs in the State, with over 1,000 attendees and 40 colleges participating. This fair has been so successful that it has helped increase the college admissions rate. It also received a proclamation from the City of Lake Wales for its impactful results in supporting a city’s need. His ability to serve doesn’t take a break, regardless of if he is on the clock or not. His hobbies include, well, serving others! He got together with some friends to create a brand-new youth football and cheer league so that the youth in Lake Wales has a positive outlet after school. As of right now, there are over 350 young men and women signed up to play youth sports this year. They have also gathered 20 other individuals to help raise funds for new uniforms, scholarships, and even opportunities for tutoring and feeding the kids after practice. This past year he was the Chairman of the Lake Wales Citizens and Police Community Relations Advisory Committee in which they tackled challenging issues such as an officer-involved incident and body cameras; he is Chairman of the Lake Wales Chamber and Economic Development Council and is Chairman of the Lake Wales Charter School system. Sara Beth Reynolds Sara Beth Reynolds (Theatre Winter Haven) graduated from the University of Florida with a Bachelor of Science in Telecommunications, Media & Society. In May she completed a dual Masters of Public Administration & Nonprofit Management from the University of Central Florida. It’s no surprise that she is furthering her education. Education is one of her passions. She is the Development Director for Theatre Winter Haven, where she oversees grant applications, donor funding and creates new and innovative programs. In this role, she was able to procure over $1.2 million in funds to help the theatre through the challenges of 2020 and 2021 and continue to provide high-standard programming and classes to the community. Programs like the Theatre of Winter Haven’s internship program, DramaTime LIVE! Reading program, summer Master Classes, and their Performing Arts Academy scholarship programs. She also has had the opportunity to speak at the Great American Teach In, mentor through Polk Vision and the Winter Haven Public Education Partnership. Sara Beth ran for Polk County school board and won at the age of 24. In this role, she aids the district in overseeing what has grown to 109,000 students and 13,000 employees. It’s in this role that she has been able to make a great impact on the lives of students in Polk County. One of the most satisfying moments of her career was with a student from Winter Haven High School. He reached out to inform her that he had been accepted into Harvard. She first met him in his Junior year but appointed him as the District 4 Representative and was the only student of Polk County Public Schools COVID-19 Reopening Task Force. Even though he was sitting in a room with educational leaders with impressive resumes, he spoke up and advocated for what he believed would keep students safe during the pandemic. She was so proud to see that, because of his confidence, he was able to secure ultimate approval of the district-wide masks requirement. It ultimately solidified her thoughts about the importance of giving students the power to speak up and speak about issues and challenges. Brian Yates Brian Yates (Citizens Bank & Trust) graduated from the Florida School of Banking at the University of Florida and currently works for a local bank that has built a culture upon improving the areas they serve through community engagement. In his role at the bank, he does his best to inspire his team to collaborate and always reach for more. In 2020, many small businesses were looking to banks for help in their time of crisis. Even though he had just recently joined their team, Citizens Bank & Trust tapped this recipient to lead the Paycheck Protection Program division who stood up to help the small business of Polk County quickly. If you can imagine, there was a lot of red tape and rules that were constantly changing, but Brian took charge, led, and collaborated with his team and saw amazing results. They issued 1,115 loans for a total of over $118 million across Polk County. Small businesses were able to keep their doors open because of the aid that the bank provided. Twenty-two thousand people got to keep their jobs! He serves as a City Commissioner for Winter Haven, and in this role, he uses his leadership skills to make decisions that are in the best interest of the citizens of the City he loves. Bonnie Parker, Director of Wealth Management at the bank, expressed, “As a resident of this community, I have been very pleased with the way he has handled some difficult situations. From policies on wearing masks to making hard decisions on budget matters, he uses a calm temperament and thoughtful approach to helping move our city forward during what has most likely been one of the most trying times in our history.” His involvement in Winter Haven doesn’t stop with his service to the commission. This recipient is also actively engaged with Main Street Winter Haven, The Winter Haven Chamber of Commerce, the Florence Villa CRA Advisory Team, the Ritz Theatre, and the Winter Haven Rotary Club, all well before his role as commissioner. He is also a graduate of Leadership Winter Haven Class 35 and was tapped to Chair Class 38. Dr. Michelle Henne Dr. Michelle Henne (Releve Sports Medicine) graduated from the University of South Florida with a Bachelor of Science. She also attended the University of South Florida College of Medicine, where she received her Doctor of Medicine. During her time at the University of South Florida College of Medicine, she served as the student leader for the scholarly concentration in Internal Medicine, a Panel Leader at the Florida Bioethics Student Planning Meeting, and was a Bareness/Behnke Chapter Member of the Gold Humanism Honor Society. In the years to follow, she would complete her Residency at Bayfront Health Family Medicine Residency Program and her Fellowship with the Orlando Health Sports Medicine Fellowship. Today, she serves as the founder, owner, and medical director for her own sports medicine facility, Releve Sports Medicine. In 2018, her company obtained the status to provide continuing education to athletic trainers and opted to do it completely free of charge. 2020 was a year where many athletic trainers were furloughed or without work, so she offered these educational meetings virtually, which gave them the opportunity to expand the variety of attendees and speakers. They have had over 2,000 athletic trainers attend these virtual webinars. She was also able to encourage continuing education by participating as a speaker at the annual conference for the American Medical Society for Sports Medicine. It was there that she shared more about the impact of COVID on sports medicine. She is involved in the Polk County Medical Association, the Central Florida Physician Alliance, Junior League of Winter Haven, Light Up the Night 5K, Leadership Winter Haven, and Leadership Polk. Uniquely, she is also carrying on the county’s legacy as the Water Ski Capital of the World on the Cypress Gardens Water Ski Team. Even though she isn’t a Winter Haven native, she felt it was an excellent way to be a part of something unique that her community is known for. Many medical practices had to shut their doors due to COVID. But her practice has actually grown, doubling in size since May 2020. She has also had the amazing opportunity to cover UFC and boxing events on ESPN and Telemundo as a certified ringside physician. Katie Worthington Decker - Special Polk Emerging Leaders Visionary Award Every year, they give five awards to five recipients. But for the 10th year of these awards, the Polk Emerging Leaders Awards committee wanted to do something special for one of the people who started it all, Katie Worthington Decker. It’s because of her influence and vision that they celebrate ten years of breaking down community lines. Ten years of EMERGE, ENDEAVOR, and ENGAGE working together to promote the young professionals of our community. In these ten years, they have had the opportunity to bestow the title of Emerging Leader to over 50 Young Professionals from throughout Polk County while recognizing the work of hundreds of others. None of this would have been possible without her inspiration, leadership, and dedication. Katie strongly believes in the power of our community’s young professionals. She believes that young professionals are unselfishly making a difference in our community every day. She, along with her Chamber predecessor Bob Gernert and mentor Bonnie Parker, wanted to create an outlet to recognize those accomplishments. Born through this was the Polk Emerging Leaders Awards. Katie is an avid UCF fan, a champion for businesses, and an advocate for her community. She is a mother, a daughter, a wife, a sister, a friend, and an admired business leader. As the President & CEO of the Greater Winter Haven Chamber of Commerce, she continues to push Winter Haven and Polk County forward through advocacy, business development, collaboration, and so much more.

It’s that time of year again and what better way to celebrate the delicious decadence of spooky season than by combining two of our favorite things: candy and cocktails! This Halloween, I set out to do just this with fellow cocktail lover and owner of Confection candy store, Ivy Horn. Trust me, when you get the chance to work with a candy guru conjuring the perfect cocktails to compliment the trickiest of treats, you step up to the cauldron with mad delight. No matter your taste preference or mixology skill level, you’re sure to find something that piques your interest. From tried and true to new and trendy, from classics to crafts, we’ve got you covered. It wouldn’t be Halloween without fun-sized candy bars like Snickers, Three Musketeers, Milky Ways, and Kit Kats. Let’s face it, they were always primo trick-or-treating loot. We decided the timelessness of an Old Fashioned is best suited for these American classics. With enough moxie to hold its own with flavors like chocolate, peanut, and caramel, it is sure to delight the tastebuds when paired with these tiny candy bars. Choose a bourbon with strong caramel notes like Makers Mark 46 and for extra credit, try switching out the traditional angostura bitters with more interesting selections like chocolate or walnut. Don’t forget the Luxardo cherry! Fruity treats like Albanese 12 Flavor Gummi Bears are best enjoyed with bubbles. Sure, an Aperol Spritz would work wonderfully here but there’s a new spritz in town. Meet the Italicus Spritz. The softly sweet and gently bitter Italicus Rosolio di Bergamatto perfectly enhances each gummi with its floral and citrus notes and comes in the most gorgeous bottle with a lid that gives us some serious Beetlejuice vibes. As a bonus, the olive garnish helps cleanse the palette between flavors. I have to admit, I’ve been having a bit of a love affair with the Negroni cocktail recently. It is oh so bitter, but oh so smooth, and might be the perfect pairing for red licorice. While it’s not for everyone as most folks either love Campari or hate it, those who love it will appreciate how the bold bitterness helps to balance out the sweetness of this classic candy. If you’re feeling extra sassy, try an Empress Negroni with black licorice. Empress gin is made with Butterfly Pea Blossom, giving it a beautiful purple hue that screams Halloween when paired with black. Also, the Luxardo Bitter Bianco has earthy, herbal notes that mirror the anise and fennel flavors of the licorice. While searching for a complementary counterpart to an Almond Joy, we came across the Saturn cocktail. Rum might be an obvious choice here, but the botanicals in gin actually go surprisingly well with coconut. After swooning over this stunning tiki drink (the garnish looks like Saturn), we were compelled to try it with a Mars bar, if only for whimsical posterity. Turns out, this is a match made in the heavens. The sweet almond in the Orgeat and the Caribbean spices in the Falernum enhance the caramel, nougat, and chocolate, while the acidity of the passion fruit and citrus really makes all the flavors pop. It is delicious with an Almond Joy, but Saturn and Mars together? Cosmic! I’ve always been a sucker for Reese’s peanut butter cups. The salty, chocolaty, peanut buttery deliciousness just begs to be washed down with ice-cold milk. For an adult version of this classic childhood combination, try a Brandy Milk Punch instead. Sweet and creamy, with hints of vanilla and nutmeg, and two ounces of Brandy that packs quite the “punch”, this one is good with almost everything. We wanted to include an all-in-one candy-cocktail combination and decided buttered rum infused with candy corn was the best way to encapsulate the feeling of the season. Total Harry Potter vibes were involved in conjuring this creamy and dreamy treat! It makes a great shooter or sipper and might be the ultimate Halloween libation. CHILDREN OF THE CORN 1 oz candy corn infused butter-washed spiced rum* ½ oz Licor 43 1 oz heavy cream Pour all ingredients into a mixing tin filled with ice, shake vigorously for 30 seconds. Double strain into a cordial glass and garnish with candy corn. *For the rum: Melt 1 stick of butter and cook until golden and nutty. Let cool and pour into a mason jar containing 12oz of spiced rum. Swirl and let sit for one hour, then freeze overnight. Pour the liquid away from the fat, then strain through a coffee filter. Add 1 cup of candy corn to buttered rum, swirl, and keep refrigerated. The candy corn will dissolve and leave the rum with a beautiful orange color. Photography by Amy Sexson

When I first heard that Tsunami Sushi was closing Downtown, I thought, ‘Noooooooo!’ It was a favorite and frequent lunch spot for the Haven team. Fortunately for hungry Downtown Winter Havenites, what took its place is just as delicious. Tsukiyomi Sushi Bar & Grill owner Jimmy Van is a restaurant industry veteran. Van, who is originally from New York, moved to Orlando in 2001. Van worked for Japanese restaurants Kobe Steakhouse and Benihana for some 15 years as the head chef and eventually restaurant manager. Central Avenue eatery Tsukiyomi Sushi is Van’s foray into restaurant ownership. The New York native first came to Winter Haven to help a friend open a business, but he stayed for the community. Small town life agreed with Van. “I saw that the people here are really nice compared to where I lived. In a big city, when you manage a big store, it’s hard for you to maintain because they have a lot of competition,” he said. Van knew if he could handle the hundreds of customers per night at a large establishment in a bigger city, he could certainly do it – and do it well – in Winter Haven. He went on to say, “This town has very nice people. […] The way I feel like they kind of welcome you to the neighborhood, it’s easy to talk [to them].” Tsukiyomi Sushi opened its doors on July 15 with a fresh look and menu. So anticipated was their grand opening, Tsukiyomi was booked up on the first day. According to Van, ‘Tsukiyomi’ is a Japanese word meaning “god of the moon” and comes from the Shinto religion. The restaurant’s brushstroke logo even looks like a crescent moon with chopsticks grabbing a piece of sushi. While spiffing up the interior with a fresh coat of deep blue paint, Van opted to keep some accents from Tsunami Sushi, including some of the black and white sushi paintings. The updated digs pay homage to its previous life but have a distinctly updated feel. Van plans to put booths in the restaurant as well. His goal with renovations was to improve the space for a clean look that would leave guests feeling impressed and respected. Tsukiyomi boasts a sizable menu of modern Japanese fare, including nigiri and sashimi, sushi, basic and special rolls, teriyaki, tempura, entrees, and more. Everything on the menu is prepared fresh and is so good that when asked, Van couldn’t single out a favorite. With so many menu offerings, Van says guests often come in and choose a few rolls (there are 60 specialty rolls alone) and work their way across the menu with each visit. Number one on that specialty roll list, their namesake roll, has spicy crab salad, crispy onion, and avocado within it and is topped with Wagyu steak in spicy mayo, fresh jalapeno, eel sauce, masago, and scallions. “We have a lot of customers, and they love it. I’m really happy about it,” Van said. “I walk to each table and ask them [about] my food so I can know from them if there’s anything I can do better, I will. So far, everyone tells me they love it. They love the food.” On the Monday afternoon we visited, the expert hands of Tsukiyomi’s sushi chefs worked carefully behind the bar to craft us a Fancy Rainbow roll. The aptly named dish was vibrant and delectable, filled with tuna, salmon, cucumber, and topped with a variety of raw fish, three tobiko, and spicy ponzu. Though he’s only been in town for around four months and Tsukiyomi has been open for a little over two, Van says Winter Haven has warmly welcomed him and his business. Customers are talkative and curious to know more about Van. “I fell in love with that,” he said. “Living in the big city, your neighbor doesn’t know your name for a year.” “My favorite part is the people here,” said Tsukiyomi Sushi owner Jimmy Van. “I worked hard so I could be a manager of the big company, but when I managed the big company in the big city, I never saw the personality of the people.” 317 W Central Ave, Winter Haven (863) 293-2395 FB @tsukiyomisushi IG @tsukiyomisushi tsukiyomisushi.com Photography by Amy Sexson

You know it, you love it, you’ve probably played a game of drunk Mario Kart there – Rec Room turns one this Halloween! The product of partners Jason Ellis, Conn O’Leary, Corey Ripley, Barrett Hollis, and Mike and Wendy O’Leary, Rec Room quickly won over Lakelanders. We sat down with Jason Ellis and Conn O’Leary to discuss the video game bar concept. “I think collectively we wanted to do another project,” said O’Leary. Initially, the idea was to open a dive bar. Lakeland has quite a few dive bars that have stood the test of time, so the vision changed. Ellis brought up the idea of a “barcade,” a bar/ arcade concept popular in many metropolitan areas. O’Leary thought of his sister. “I can sit at a bar and drink for two or three hours and be fine, but within ten minutes, she’s like, ‘What’s next? What are we doing? We aren’t doing this all night. We need to go play pool, shoot darts, sing karaoke, do something.’” The idea of having an activity-oriented bar had teeth to it. They recruited some like-minded folks for the project and got to work on their Lakeland barcade, Rec Room. The idea was intentionally inclusive of everyone in the community, said the partners – friends getting together for drinks, a date night, and those who don’t drink at all. “That was the impetus behind it. This could be for everybody,” said O’Leary. When they found the building that would eventually become Rec Room, formerly LkldTV, O’Leary said, “We fell into the perfect space. […] We could see the potential bloom.” The renovations took about a year and a half to complete. The Rec Room was set to open in March of 2020 but was delayed into the fall by the pandemic. “It was kind of a bear,” O’Leary said of the project. “It was an old building, built in the ‘30s, I think, so we had to do extensive electrical repairs. We gutted it, and then with all the COVID delays, when we were close to finishing up, they still hadn’t green-lit all the bars yet.” Rec Room finally opened on Halloween of 2020. ALL FUN AND GAMES Bringing video games into the bar scene was a no-brainer for Ellis and O’Leary. For Ellis, his favorite game was Ms. Pac-Man. “I cut a countless number of college classes to go to the Student Center when no one was there, to play,” he said. The iconic arcade game is free to play at Rec Room. For O’Leary, it was Dig Dug. “I remember playing that in the hallway of a gym rec center that I used to go to when I was a kid. I’d throw coin after coin into that,” he said. O’Leary, who grew up in Hawaii, remembers frequenting an arcade there called the Fun Factory. “The best time of the year was my birthday when they’d hand me ten or twenty bucks, and they’d leave so I’d be by myself in this arcade. It was the best thing ever. Twenty dollars back then went a long way because all the games were a quarter apiece.” It isn’t all retro games at Rec Room. The bar has a good mix of old, new, and activity games. Rec Room regulars buy tokens to play everything from Mortal Kombat to NBA Showtime, Guitar Hero, Big Buck Hunter, Golden Tee, basketball, skeeball, and air hockey. They recently installed two pinball machines, a popular addition to the barcade. Above all else, O’Leary hopes Rec Room is a fun space whether you’re looking to socialize, sip a cocktail, or win a few rounds of Jurassic Park pinball. “It can be whatever you want to have fun with. If you don’t care about video games and just want to drink at the bar and hang out with friends, cool. If you don’t drink at all and want to come in and have a basketball tournament with your boys, we’ve got that too.” LEVELING UP THE BAR SCENE As for the drinks, Ellis said, “We wanted to have a curated list that showed that we had bartending skills but could also handle a high-volume atmosphere.” Their most popular cocktail is the Planet Popstar, made with white rum, a strawberry shrub, fresh mint, cream soda, and lemon juice. When we spoke in September, they were preparing to roll out a new selection of drinks with a Tiki flair. Ellis described them as “light, fruit-forward, fun” and “dangerously delicious.” He worked with Rec Room General Manager, Olivia Lewandowski, to develop their cocktail menu. Rec Room slings plenty of seltzers, new-school cocktails, and frozen drinks, serving a primarily younger crowd. Though the bar doesn’t serve its own food, they regularly host food trucks and vendor pop-ups. “My favorite is Pinoy Cravings,” O’Leary said. “They’re so friendly, they’re cool, and their food is amazing.” TEAMWORK MAKES THE DREAM WORK Reception of the Lakeland barcade has been encouraging, say the owners. “The community and The City have been nothing but great,” O’Leary said. The pair attributes much of Rec Room’s success to their team. “We put together a really good staff,” said O’Leary. The bar hasn’t suffered staffing issues plaguing much of the service industry. “That’s been good to have that continuity. People like coming in and seeing their bartenders, and the ones we’ve had have done well connecting with customers and building that clientele base where they know their names, what they drink, know their stories. That’s been invaluable to us.” Asked if they have any new concepts in the works, the pair behind some of Lakeland’s favorite hangouts, including Rec Room, Good Thyme, and Cob & Pen, agreed that they were “ambitious, but also measured.” O’Leary said, “We’re always looking to expand and do bigger and better [things], but it’s got to make sense. […] That’s how I think we’ve done so well – we have a vision, and we wait for the vision to coalesce into something we can manage.” “We like the burgeoning town as opposed to the established bigger city,” added Ellis. “One of the things we’ve done really well is we know how to find good people and use them to their potential and grow positive working relationships with them. Building the management team at Cob & Pen allowed us to step away and do projects like this. […] ‘You’re as good as the people you surround yourself with’ is pretty true.” Celebrate one year with Rec Room this Halloween. Follow their social media for weekly events and specials like Monday Mario Kart tournaments, Token Tuesday, and Thursday BOGO and ping pong tourneys, as well as their quarterly DJ dance parties. Happy Birthday to one of Lakeland’s most rad bars! Rec Room 202 N Massachusetts Ave, Lakeland (863) 213-4073 FB @RecRoomLKLD IG @recroomlkld www.recroomlkld.com

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

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

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