Support Us Button Widget

Which closed Lakeland business would you bring back?

From retailers to restaurants, you told us which businesses you think deserve a second chance.

maas brothers

Maas Brothers in downtown Lakeland, c. 1980s

Photo via Lakeland Public Library

The poet Alfred Lord Tennyson said it best: “‘Tis better to have loved and lost than never to have loved at all.” When it comes to bygone Lakeland businesses, we can’t help but agree — there are always some we wish we could visit again. After nearly 700 responses poured in, here are the businesses you miss the most.

An overwhelming number of readers remember shopping at the Maas Brothers department store + grabbing a bite from the in-store restaurant from 1954 to 1994. Others wish they could head downtown to Nathan’s Men’s Store, which was open for 78 years.

On Instagram, followers pined for dinner and a show at Mugs and Movies, one of the former theaters at the Palm Cinema 3. The South Florida Avenue movie theater closed in 2016 after serving beer and bites since 1986.

Exterior shot of Crispers in downtown Lakeland

Crispers closed its four remaining locations in fall of 2022.

Photo by LALtoday

The pain of losing Crispers in 2022 is still as fresh as its salads, and readers still crave their favorite dishes — as @jillkb22 says, “The soups. The pick a pair. Real ones remember their massive baked potatoes and loaded potato flatbread.”

Favorite lunch spots are hard to let go of, so Deli Delicacies was also frequently mentioned. Reader Melinda H. tells us it “was a great place to pick up sandwiches, pastries, cheesecakes, have breakfast.” And who can forget La Imperial Bakery? We especially miss the Cuban sandwiches + guava pastries.

Do you have another former biz in mind? Tell us about it or reminisce with other Lakelanders on Instagram and Facebook. If you’re looking for a favorite former restaurant, check out more eateries our readers would bring back.

More from LALtoday
In honor of Catapult’s 10-year anniversary, we’re spilling the tea on what goes on behind the scenes. How many of these facts did you know?
If your holiday season isn’t complete without a cheesy Hallmark movie, then this activity is for you.
Publix has made its mark on Lakeland, from its economy to its architecture. Find out what these former buildings are today.
Decking the halls has never been easier — or more swan-filled.
Check out winter and holiday events happening in and around Lakeland in this seasonal guide.
It’s the most wonderful time of the year. Check out what you can expect for the annual parade taking place Thursday, Dec. 5.
Historical markers are physical signs, plaques, and statues that commemorate a significant place or event. Where would you like to see a historical marker around Lakeland?
From coffee to baked goods to cocktails, try these festive bevs + bites for the holiday season.
We’re calling on you to tell us your Lakeland-themed goals for the new year.
Prepare for winter weather in Lakeland, FL with these seasonal temperature and precipitation outlooks.