Small business, big flavor: Try 12 local restaurant owners’ recommendations

It’s Small Business Week powered by MIDFLORIDA Credit Union, but what makes Lakeland’s small biz scene so sweet? Just ask our local restaurant owners, who are here with order recommendations for your first (or tenth) visit.

Quick bites

Country Chicken ‘n Fish, 1263 Kathleen Rd.
“Lakeland’s first, original chicken-shack opened off Kathleen Road. Specializing in Southern-style fried chicken, gizzards, fish, collard greens, green beans, and Southern sides.”

Try this: Try our fried chicken — crispy, flavorful, and cooked to perfection — our tender gizzards and Southern sides.

Vegetation Cafe & Kitchen, 1439 E. Gary Rd.
“We are a plant-based kitchen and cafe offering mindfully crafted options, limiting the use of processed ingredients. We strive to make nutritious, wholesome food delicious and beautiful, changing our menu often to keep healthy eating fresh and fun.”

Try this: The made-to-order items. They change regularly and we always love them.

The Juice Box, 4295 S. Florida Ave.
“Healthiest spot in Lakeland for epic smoothies, fresh juices, and vegetarian food made with whole ingredients.”

Try this: Almond Brothers or Awake My Soul smoothie and a bowl.

Photo by Our Noire Kitchen

Food trucks + pop-ups

Our Noire Kitchen, locations vary
“We are a private chef, catering, and pop-up scratch kitchen that grew into a food trailer almost one year ago.”

Try this: Our Gouda grits if you catch us at a morning event, or whatever our featured item is. It’s probably a creative, delish dish our team is excited to offer on our rotating menu.

JJ’s Fusion Khaana, 502 E. Main St.
“We serve innovative, delicious fusion food with an Indian twist. We aspire to bring people together through food and cultivate a supportive, loving community.”

Try this: Sip a cup of Chai made from fresh ingredients.

Photo by LALtoday

Desserts

Lakeland Ice Cream Company, 2972 Lakeland Highlands Rd. + 2973 Duff Rd.
“We are a hand-dipped ice cream shop with over 60+ unique flavors and sundaes, including a Harry’s Brew (butterbeer) and Insta Gram.”

Try this: The cotton candy burrito.

Mel’s Desserts & Delights, 2080 E. Edgewood Dr.
“Small bakery with newly opened storefront, offering gourmet desserts and celebration cakes.”

Try this: Strawberry Banana Cookie

Crumbles and Cream Kaffeehaus, 113 S. Evers St., Plant City
“We are the home of happy calories!”

Try this: Try one of our sweet or savory treats.

Photo by @swanbrewing

Drinks

Swan Brewing, 115 W. Pine St.
“We create beers people want to talk about. We are always family and pet friendly.”

Try this: Straight Outta Lakeland.

Kitty Cat Lounge, 946 E. Orange St.
“The third place Lakeland has needed for a long time, but with cats. We promote strictly local food, drinks, art, and cats.”

Try this: Our kitty therapy.

Pour Bear Coffee, 4608 Cleveland Heights Blvd.
“We are a cozy coffee shop with quality, organic coffees and delicious baked goods made in-house and sourced from local bakeries.”

Try this: Honey Bear Latte or the Brown Bear Shaken Espresso, and our housemade Jar Bar.

Mitchell’s Coffee House, 235 N. Kentucky Ave.
“At Mitchell’s Coffee House, we are dedicated to crafting exceptional coffee experiences that bring people together. Our mission is to serve high-quality, ethically sourced coffee in a warm and inviting space where community thrives.”

Try this: One of our house specialty lattes and a piece of cake — coffee cake, Coca-Cola cake, and carrot cake are all must-haves.

Note: Responses have been edited for clarity + brevity.