6 Amazing Restaurants in Lakeland, Florida
This post contains affiliate links, which help support my blog at no extra cost to you!
If you’re looking for the best restaurants in Lakeland, Florida, you might be surprised by just how many incredible spots this Central Florida city has to offer! Conveniently located between Tampa and Orlando, Lakeland has quietly become a destination for food lovers, with everything from cozy brunch cafes and trendy food halls to upscale dining and local favorites.
I’ve visited Lakeland several times over the years, and every trip seems to uncover another restaurant that ends up on my must-visit list! Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway, passing through on a road trip, or simply looking for your next date night or brunch spot, there’s no shortage of amazing places to eat.
And if you want more than just the best eats, check out my full list of fun things to do in Lakeland!
Must-Visit Restaurants in Lakeland
1. Nineteen61
Nineteen61 is one of those restaurants that seems to end up on just about everyone’s list of the best restaurants in Lakeland, and after eating here, it’s easy to see why! This upscale restaurant is known for putting a unique twist on Latin American cuisine, blending Cuban, Peruvian, Latin, and Southern flavors with locally sourced ingredients.
Everything we ordered was beautifully plated and packed with flavor, but what really stood out was how creative the menu was. Whatever you do, don’t skip the Calamari Fritos!
The fried calamari rings and tentacles are tossed in a sweet and spicy jalapeño caramel and topped with salsa criolla, pickled jalapeños, and fresh cilantro. It’s hands down one of my favorite appetizers in Lakeland, and honestly, it’s the dish that made me fall in love with calamari in the first place!
The cocktails are just as thoughtfully crafted as the food! If you’re looking for a restaurant that feels elevated but approachable, Nineteen61 absolutely deserves a spot on your Lakeland itinerary.
2. Cob & Pen
If you’re looking for a restaurant with great food, craft cocktails, and a cozy atmosphere, Cob & Pen is a great choice! Housed inside Lakeland’s historic Tudor House, the restaurant is full of charm and offers a dining experience that’s just as memorable as the food. The home was originally built in 1927 before being relocated to its current location in 1935, and it’s fun to think that this entire house was literally moved down the street!
The menu has a mix of elevated comfort food, fresh salads, sandwiches, and seasonal entrees. One of the restaurant’s most popular dishes is the fish and chips! We also loved the smoked fish spread and Brussels sprouts.
If the weather is nice, I definitely recommend grabbing a table on the outdoor patio. It’s one of my favorite places to enjoy a leisurely meal while soaking up Lakeland’s charming atmosphere.
3. LoveBird
If you’re craving fried chicken, make a beeline for LoveBird! This local favorite has earned a loyal following for its crispy fried chicken, flavorful sandwiches, and delicious Southern-inspired sides.
While the chicken is obviously the star of the show, don’t overlook the sides. Everything is made from scratch, and they brine the chicken for at least 24 hours before frying it up, so you can be sure that it is always fresh and never frozen. The chicken is hand-battered and soaked in buttermilk before being breaded with a unique house-made flour-and-spice blend.
LoveBird has a fun, casual atmosphere that makes it perfect for a quick lunch, family dinner, or satisfying comfort food craving. If you’re putting together a list of must-try restaurants in Lakeland, this one definitely deserves a spot on it!
4. Texas Cattle Company
If you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply in the mood for a great steak, Texas Cattle Company is one of the best restaurants in Lakeland to splurge on. This longtime local favorite is known for its hand-cut steaks, fresh seafood, and old-school steakhouse atmosphere that has kept people coming back for years.
The steaks are cooked over a Florida citrus and oak wood fire, giving them an incredible smoky flavor that’s hard to beat. Pair your meal with a glass of wine or a classic cocktail, and you’ve got the perfect recipe for a memorable dinner.
If you’re a steak lover, this is definitely one restaurant you won’t want to skip!
5. The Joinery
If you’re dining with a group or simply can’t decide what you’re in the mood for, The Joinery is the answer. This modern food hall brings together several local restaurants under one roof, so everyone can order exactly what they’re craving without having to compromise.
Whether you’re in the mood for pizza, tacos, sushi, burgers, barbecue, coffee, or dessert, you’ll find plenty of delicious options here. The atmosphere is lively, making it a fun place to grab a casual meal, meet up with friends, or enjoy a laid-back afternoon or evening in Lakeland. They even host fun, weekly events like BINGO and trivia.
One of my favorite things about The Joinery is its location along Lake Mirror. After your meal, take a walk around the lake or explore downtown Lakeland!
6. Mojo Federal
If you’re craving authentic Southern barbecue, Mojo Federal is a must! Located in downtown Lakeland in an old post office building, this casual spot has all the barbecue classics, from slow-smoked brisket and pulled pork to ribs, smoked turkey, and hearty Southern sides.
The portions are generous, the meats are packed with smoky flavor, and the menu has something for everyone, whether you’re ordering a barbecue platter or one of their stacked sandwiches. And whatever you do, don’t skip the onion rings, it’s the perfect side to round out your meal!
Which of these Lakeland restaurants are you checking out first?!
Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway, day trip from Tampa, or you’re lucky enough to call Lakeland home, there’s no shortage of amazing restaurants in Lakeland, Florida to explore. From historic restaurants to casual barbecue joints and trendy food halls, the city’s food scene has something for every craving.
I hope this guide helps you discover your next favorite restaurant! And if you’ve found another must-try restaurant in Lakeland that deserves a spot on this list, let me know. I’m always looking for an excuse to plan another foodie trip to Lakeland.
Before you go, be sure to follow me on Insta @guidedbydestiny and check out some of my other Florida blog posts:
Fun Things to Do in Anna Maria Island
Best Anna Maria Island Restaurants
